Burner Mountain and East Fork Backcountry
At a Glance
Burner Mountain and East Fork Backcountry encompass remote high-elevation terrain between Durbin and the Laurel Fork Wilderness, offering rugged trails, quiet ridgelines, and off-the-grid exploration. These remote Monongahela National Forest areas feature steep approaches, limited signage, and pristine headwater streams perfect for experienced backpackers, anglers, and horseback riders seeking true solitude. Access via Forest Service roads from Durbin provides gateways to connecting trails into the Laurel Fork and Shavers Fork wilderness regions.
Activities
- Hiking
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hunting
- Cross Country Skiing
Features
- River
- Forest
Difficulty
Season
All Year
Area Trails
Trail Name
Trail Name
Recreation Sites
Item #1
Item #2
Item #3
Safety
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
For Span Oak Trailhead, from Durbin, travel north on Forest Road 44, located to the right of the West Fork Trailhead. Continue for 7 miles to the Little River Rd bridge.
For the Burner Mountain trailhead, from Durbin, drive east on US-250 for 5 miles, then turn left onto WV-28. Continue for 2 miles to Middle Mountain Rd, turning left at the National Youth Science Camp. Continue for 3 miles to the trailhead.
For East Fork Trailhead, from Durbin, drive east on US-250 for 5 miles, then turn left onto WV-28. Continue for 2.5 miles to FR 36 and Island Campground.