Williams River Backcountry

Scenic river corridor with premier trout fishing, dispersed camping near Cowen, and connections to Cranberry Wilderness.
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At a Glance

Williams River Backcountry and Scenic Backway follows one of the Monongahela National Forest’s most scenic waterways, offering miles of riverside roads, dispersed campsites, and trailheads into the Cranberry Wilderness. Anglers visit this remote corridor for some of West Virginia’s best native brook trout fishing, while hikers and mountain bikers access neighboring Tea Creek Backcountry trails. In autumn, the Williams River becomes a kaleidoscope of color, connecting effortlessly to the Highland Scenic Highway for spectacular fall foliage drives between Marlinton and Cowen.

Activities

Features

Difficulty

Season

All Year

Area Trails

Trail Name

Recreation Sites

Item #1

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

None available. 

Nearby Towns

Downtown

No town nearby.

15 Minutes

An angler’s oasis at the edge of the Monongahela National Forest, Cowen provides access to West Virginia’s best trout streams, wilderness camping, & family-friendly adventures

30 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.

60 Minutes

Richwood, WV blends arts, coffee culture, and outdoor adventure as a gateway to the Highland Scenic Highway, Cranberry Wilderness, and Gauley River experiences.

Explore Nearby Destinations

Area Itineraries

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