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If you’ve never been to Pocahontas County in West Virginia, you are truly missing out.
Home to multiple state parks and forests, scenic routes, unique communities, a national forest, less than 10,000 residents, and a well-known winter sports resort, there’s little wonder to why Pocahontas County is called Nature’s Mountain Playground.
We’ve been to Pocahontas County multiple times and still have plenty more to see. As the state’s third largest in land area, this county is a gold-mine for travelers, explorers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
When planning your adventure, make sure to check out Pocahontas County’s Visitors Website and this page for Places to Stay. If you’d like to continue your adventure north, check out my post West Virginia Road Trip: Allegheny Highlands.
So here are the must sees and dos in Pocahontas County…
Beartown State Park
Step into the land of fairies and fantasy at Beartown State Park. A half-mile boardwalk takes you through a mossy boulders and rock formations.
Although opened only during the summer and attracts visitors just for the boardwalk, Beartown is a must stop on a visit to Pocahontas County.
Cass Scenic Railroad State Park
Although a “small” park, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is a fun experience with the famous Last Run Restaurant, Company Store, and museum.
You may even plan your trip around a scenic train ride with the Durbin Greenbrier Valley Railroad.
Cranberry Glades Botanical Area
The Cranberry Glades Botanical Area encompasses the largest area of bogs in West Virginia. This unique landscape provides a home to unique plants.
The half-mile boardwalk provides access to visitors and the educational Cranberry Mountain Nature Center provides an opportunity to learn why this area is so exceptional.
It is also an easy stop off of the Highland Scenic Highway and close to the Falls of Hills Creek.
Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park
Known for the last major Civil War conflict in the state, Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park contains hiking trails, play areas, and a look-out tower with a wonderful view. Plus, it’s one of the Civil War Heritage Sites.
Falls of Hills Creek
Located off of the Highland Scenic Highway, the Falls of Hills Creek is a must see in the Monongahela National Forest.
With three falls, relax and enjoy the sounds of water while exploring the forest plants. The lowest falls located three-fourths of a mile from the parking area is worth the walk with a 63-foot drop.
Green Bank Observatory
So kind of a big deal and somehow unknown by many West Virginians, the Green Bank Observatory is home to the world’s largest fully steerable radio telescope.
With a really neat science center and up-close bus ride to the telescope, this is a must see! Just be prepared to have no cell service since it’s a national radio quiet zone.
Greenbrier River Trail
Running from Cass Scenic Railroad State Park in Pocahontas County to Caldwell in Greenbrier County, the 78-mile Greenbrier River Trail provides beautiful views in remote areas.
Used for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, this former railroad line is an experience for every age.
Marlinton
Home of the Roadkill Cook-off, the county seat of Marlinton is the epitome of small-town beauty.
With multiple listings on the National Register of Historic Places, an Opera House, and access to the Greenbrier River Trail, this town has a lot to offer. Make sure to stop at the Greenbrier Grille and Lodge for some delicious food.
Snowshoe Mountain Resort
One of WV’s famous wintertime sports resorts, Snowshoe Mountain Resort is a must see.
Snowshoe also offers many activities in the summertime. And even if you aren’t going to stay, drive up for the splendid mountain views.
Birthplace of Pearl S. Buck
Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for The Good Earth and committed to multiple humanitarian efforts, Pearl S. Buck is “kind of a big deal”. Oh… and she was the first American woman to win the Nobel Prize for Literature.
Although she spent comparatively little time living in West Virginia, she worked hard to preserve her birthplace. The home now serves as a museum.
Watoga State Park
A possible “home” during your visit, Watoga State Park contains accommodations of cabins and two campgrounds. With river, pool, and lake access, many water activities await in additional to many hiking trails.
Scenic Drives
The official scenic drive in the area is the Highland Scenic Highway. Using Routes 39 and 150, travel through the Monongahela National Forest. Make sure to stop by the Falls of Hills Creek and Cranberry Glades Botanical Area.
Unofficial scenic drives include the Seneca Trail Route 219, one of the oldest routes in the country. This will be one of the main roads used to explore the county.
The other main road to explore the county and a beautiful scenic drive is Route 92. Green Bank Observatory is located along this route.
Monongahela National Forest
Established in 1920, the Monongahela National Forest covers most of the Allegheny Highlands. Plus, around one-third of the forest is in Pocahontas County.