Take An Easy Loop Trail To Enter Another World At Gaudineer Knob In West Virginia

There are only a handful of virgin forests left in West Virginia, and most of them are in the Monongahela National Forest. One of them is on Shavers Mountain, in Randolph and Pocahontas Counties, near the town of Durbin, and you can walk through it on an easy loop trail that also takes you past an incredible overlook from Gaudineer Knob.

The Gaudineer Scenic Area in the Monongahela National Forest is one of the easiest and yet most scenic loop trails in West Virginia.

The trail is under a mile long.

In addition to panoramic views from Gaudineer Knob that are breathtaking at any time of year….

…the trail also passes through one of the few remaining old-growth forests in the state (and the only virgin red spruce forest).

This 900 acre pocket of forest was left untouched sort of by accident...

A surveying error related to the difference between true north and magnetic north led to a miscalculation that left this pocket of land un-timbered.

...but it is definitely being kept that way on purpose.

In addition to great views and beautiful trees, the Gaudineer Scenic Area provides a picnic area (six tables plus charcoal grills) adjacent to the parking area.

Keep an eye out for wildlife. The Cheat Mountain Salamander and the West Virginia Northern Flying Squirrel, both considered rare and endangered species, make their home in the spruce forest.

So head on down Forest Service Road 27 for a great little hike that might well become your new favorite!

For more information, a map, and directions, visit the Guadineer Knob website courtesy of the U.S. Forest Service. The scenic area is open year-round, but be aware that Forest Service Road 27 isn't always cleared immediately during the winter months.

Looking for more easy hikes to get you out and about this season? Try these: 7 Of The Greatest Waterfall Hiking Trails In West Virginia For Beginners.