Explore an Old-Growth Forest in West Virginia

To live in West Virginia is to experience some of the most stunning wilderness in America. It probably comes as no surprise, then, that West Virginia is home to its fair share of old-growth forests. These are places where the trees have grown freely for decades and, in many cases, centuries, having been spared from logging and other deforestation efforts. Today, we're grateful for these magical places that feel that help make West Virginia so wild and wonderful. If you'd like to explore one of these places, I recommend planning a visit to Watoga State Park in Marlinton, West Virginia. You'll hike among towering trees and explore some of the region's best views.

Watoga State Park is the largest of its kind in West Virginia, measuring an impressive 10,000 acres. Visitors relish the opportunity to explore this park year-round, as it offers everything we love about West Virginia: rushing rivers, breathtaking mountain views, and, of course, towering trees. At the heart of this park is a special wilderness area tucked away between the Ann Bailey Trail and the Burnside Ridge Trail. This is where you'll discover a 500-acre grove of hardwoods, home to some true giants. Within this area, oaks estimated to be nearly 350 years old have been found. Other species include black gum, pitch pine, white pine, and cucumber tree.

Exploring this forest, you'll have no doubt that you're amidst old-growth trees, given the sheer size of the trunks and the bark's rugged texture, having been weathered for hundreds of years. While the trees are impressive to be around, they also serve a vital purpose in the ecosystem. The park is home to black bears, turkeys, deer, bobcats, owls, and countless other birds that rely on these impressive giants as a crucial part of their habitat.

The park offers 40 miles of hiking trails to choose from, but there isn't a trail that goes directly through the old-growth forest. That being said, the trail that will take you the closest is the Ann Bailey Trail, which is a challenging 8.4-mile trail. After about one mile on the trail, you'll notice an intersection with the Burnside Ridge Trail. Looking towards the stream, you'll see the old-growth trees. If you do choose to explore a bit off-trail, it's vital to tread carefully and be mindful of this delicate ecosystem. I think you'll agree that simply being near these trees is bound to lift your spirits and make you feel even more connected to the landscape.

For those looking to extend their adventure, the park offers a campground. It's open from April through October and offers 88 camping sites. A lodge and a few cabins are also available to rent year-round. For more information, visit the official Watoga State Park website.

Looking for even more awe-inspiring places in the Mountain State? Take a look at this list of the 12 most beautiful natural wonders in West Virginia. Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.