Fernow Experimental Forest
At a Glance
Fernow Experimental Forest serves as a living laboratory managed by the U.S. Forest Service since 1934, where research and restoration meet public recreation near Parsons. Starting at the Cheat Ranger Station, visitors can explore rare American chestnut plantings before visiting interpretive trails like the 0.5-mile Zero Grade Trail, which highlight forest management practices, watershed studies, and red spruce restoration. Adjacent to the Otter Creek Wilderness, Fernow offers a unique Monongahela National Forest destination where science and outdoor recreation overlap.
Activities
- Hiking
Features
- History
- Wildflower
- Forest
Difficulty
Season
All Year; Day-Use
Area Trails
Trail Name
Trail Name
Recreation Sites
Item #1
Item #2
Item #3
Safety
Foraging is prohibited in the Fernow Experimental Forest.
Cell service may not be available during your hike. Please plan accordingly and always follow Leave No Trace principles.
Directions
From Parsons, turn right off US-219 onto Billings Ave and Brooklyn Heights Rd for 2.5 miles. Turn right onto Forest Road 701 to access the forest. Interpretive signage is dispersed along subsequent Forest Roads.
Nearby Towns
Downtown
15 Minutes
30 Minutes
60 Minutes
