Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
GREEN MOUNTAIN TRAIL
This scenic hike accesses some of the most remote areas of Otter Creek Wilder-
ness. Stretching 4 miles, this trail offers stunning views of the remote West Virginia
backcountry and has less traffic than other trails in the region due to its difficult ac-
cessibility. The Green Mountain Trail is great for either an overnight backpacking trip
or a long and challenging dayhike.
Although the trail itself is 4 miles long, there is some considerable hiking to get
to the start of the trail. The trail can best be accessed by hiking in from the Big Spring
Gap trailhead or either of the Otter Creek trailheads.
The trail starts by climbing steeply out of the Otter Creek valley, which provides
breathtaking views of the surrounding area. It levels out after about 2 miles and
follows a high mountain plateau before reaching the junction with the Possession
Camp Trail after 2.7 miles. The trail concludes with a 1.3-mile ascent through thickly
wooded brush at the top of Green Mountain. The end of the trail is marked by a cairn
indicating the start of the Shavers Mountain Trail.
DIRECTIONS
To reach Big Spring Gap trailhead, from Parsons, take 1st Street north to
Billings Ave. and turn right onto Billings. Billings turns into County Road 219.
Turn right on Forest Service Road 701 and follow the signs to the trailhead,
which will be on the left.
The old berm of the railroad bed is still visible through a blanket of snow on the Green
Mountain Trail.
