Dolly Sods Wilderness
At a Glance
Dolly Sods Wilderness perches on a 4,000-foot plateau in the Monongahela National Forest, famous for windswept heath barrens, rocky outcrops, and sweeping Allegheny Front views often compared to Canadian tundra. More than 47 miles of trails crisscross this iconic destination, ranging from easy interpretive meadow walks to rugged backcountry loops past waterfalls and unique high-elevation ecosystems. Once heavily logged and scarred by wildfires, Dolly Sods has regenerated into West Virginia’s most distinctive landscape, drawing backpackers, photographers, and wildflower enthusiasts year-round.
Activities
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Hunting
- Camping
- Cross Country Skiing
- Swimming
- Picnic
Features
- Mountain Views
- River
- Waterfall
- Wetland
- Rock Features
- Forest
Difficulty
Season
All Year;
Access roads are gated and closed in Winter
Area Trails
Mountainside Trail
Table Rock Trail
Recreation Sites
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Safety
The Dolly Sods 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
Multiple trailhead access points are available for the Dolly Sods Wilderness.
From Petersburg, take WV-42 north for 12 miles and turn left onto Jordan Run Rd. Continue for 5 miles, turning left onto Brushy Ridge Rd. Continue for 5.5 miles to the Sundew Trailhead.
From Seneca Rocks, take WV-28 north for 12 miles, then turn left onto Jordan Run Road. Continue for 1 mile onto FR19 (Dolly Sods Rd.) for another 6 miles. Turn right onto Brushy Ridge Rd for 3 miles to Fisher Spring Run Trailhead or continue left for 1 mile to South Prong Trailhead.
From Thomas and Davis, follow US-32 south for approximately 15 miles to Dryfork. Turn left onto Bonner Mountain Rd. Continue straight onto Laneville Rd. and FR 19. Multiple trailheads are located along the road, including Red Creek and Boars Nest.
Nearby Towns
Downtown
15 Minutes
30 Minutes
60 Minutes
