Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Location
Randolph County
Endpoints
Monongahela National Forest
Mileage
19
Roughness Index
3
Surface
Dirt
The Otter Creek Wilderness Area, located 10 miles northeast of Elkins, is a hiker's
paradise. Federally protected since 1975, the area prohibits the use of all vehicles, in-
cluding bikes, so hikers alone have access to the Otter Creek drainage area, surround-
ing mountains, and 20,000 acres of undisturbed forest.
The extensive system features dozens of trails throughout the wilderness area,
including three rail-trails, which are historical remnants of the area's once booming
logging industry. Attempts have been made to keep the area primitive, so no bridges
or other human structures can be found. Be prepared to get wet while crossing any
number of streams.
Though a cairn marks each trail intersection, the trails themselves are not well-
marked. Be sure to pick up a map of the entire system at the National Forest Service
office in Elkins.
