Big Draft Wilderness

Accessible wilderness near White Sulphur Springs offering hiking, fishing, and birdwatching across 5,000 acres of hardwood forest.
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At a Glance

Big Draft Wilderness protects over 5,000 acres of mixed hardwood forest and headwater streams near White Sulphur Springs in Greenbrier County, offering some of the most accessible wilderness hiking and fishing in the Monongahela National Forest. The wilderness features Big Draft Creek’s native brook trout waters, mountain laurel thickets, and quiet ridgelines perfect for day hikes and birdwatching. A short drive from downtown White Sulphur Springs and Blue Bend Recreation Area, Big Draft provides a recently designated wilderness experience without remote access challenges.

Activities

Features

Difficulty

Season

All Year

Area Trails

Trail Name

Recreation Sites

Item #1

Safety

The Big Draft Wilderness trails travel through remote backcountry with limited signage and multiple stream crossings. Cell service may not be available during your hike. Please plan accordingly and always follow Leave No Trace principles.

During hunting season, stay on established trails, wear bright colors like blaze orange, and make your presence known to ensure safety for all forest users.

Directions

Primary trailhead access is located in the Blue Bend Recreation Area. From White Sulphur Springs, drive north on WV-92 for 9 miles. Turn left on Anthony Rd, and continue for 3.5 miles.

From Marlinton, drive south on US-219 for 31.5 miles. Just past Frankford, turn onto Anthony Rd and continue for 8 miles.

Nearby Towns

Downtown

No town nearby.

15 Minutes

No town within 15 minutes.

30 Minutes

Located at the Monongahela National Forest’s southern gateway, White Sulphur Springs offers hiking, biking, fishing, scenic byways, and easy access to the Greenbrier River Trail.

60 Minutes

Home to the 78-mile Greenbrier River Trail, Marlinton blends a historic downtown with rail-trail riding, mountain biking, and scenic drives in the Monongahela National Forest region.

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Area Itineraries

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