Tucker County
NATURAL WONDERS CanaanValley NationalWildlife Refuge The Canaan Valley was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1974, and a portion was later preserved as a national wildlife refuge. The Canaan ValleyWildlife Refuge encompasses nearly 17,000 acres. Visitors are welcome to explore the refuge fromone hour before dawn to one hour after sunset.More than30miles of roads and trails are open towalking, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing. Biking and riding horseback are alsowelcomed indesignated areas. Hunting andfishing are allowedwith appropriate licenses and refuge permits. Dolly SodsWilderness and Scenic Area As part of the expansive Monongahela National Forest, this 17,000-acre wilderness area, with its bogs, heaths, and boulder-strewn plains, feels more like Canadian tundra. Wind sweeps through the stunted shrubs and exposed boulders, creating a landscape unlike most of the leaf-covered national forest. Dolly Sods is a peaceful, primitive paradise for hikers and horseback riders. In fact, riding horseback is permitted inmost parts of the Mon Forest except for developed recreation areas like campgrounds. Be mindful, though, to leave no trace of your four-legged friend. The Bear Rocks Trail traverses sunny meadows before reaching marshy bogs and
crossing Red Creek. If you’re not a fan of wet feet, pack an extra set of socks and shoes. Make your hike a longer trek by linking up with other paths, including Dobbin Grade Trail and Raven Ridge Trail. The Rohrbaugh Plains Trail also leads to stunning views of the valley. The view fromBear Rocks, a boulder-strewn playground, is stunning. On a clear day, visitors can see sevenmountain ridges across a 30-mile stretch to the east. Not sure whichway is east? Check out the red spruces along the rimof the ridge.Winds often blow from the west at high speeds, and tree limbs point with the wind to the east. Once you’re tuckered out, rest your head at RedCreek Campground. Just make sure to leave the wilderness as picturesque as you found it. CanaanMountain Backcountry Tucked between Blackwater Falls and Canaan Valley State Park is the Canaan Mountain Backcountry. Trails crisscross this little slice of heaven, making it divine for hikers and mountain bikers alike. The Canaan Loop Road offers an 18-mile stretch for adventurers to explore on foot or hoof. The area features two notable knobs, each with elevations at more than 4,000 feet: Pointy Knob and Chimney Rock. Table Rock Trail leads to a breathtaking private overlook. A section of the Allegheny Trail also runs through the backcountry from Blackwater Falls State Park to Canaan Valley State Park, meaning guests can experience a taste of the 330-mile path that reaches to the Mason- Dixon Line. Otter CreekWilderness Areas Otter CreekWilderness comprises nearly 21,000 acres and lies at the base of Shavers andMcGowanmountains. With 45 miles of unblazed trails, many of which follow old railroad grades, logging roads, or farm roads, it is a great place to experience nature. Trails traverse streams and creeks, so take an extra pair of socks. Outdoor Recreation Canaan Valley is a haven for four seasons of outdoor recreation, frommountain biking to hiking to fishing to skiing. After just one visit, the popular hashtag for the county— #gettuckered—makes a lot of sense.
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