Attractions and Places To See in Pocahontas County - Top 13
Best attractions and places to see in Pocahontas County include a diverse range of natural and historical sites. This region is characterized by its extensive forests, including a significant portion of the Monongahela National Forest, and is the headwaters for several rivers. Visitors can explore numerous state parks, historical landmarks, and scenic trails that highlight the area's rich logging history and natural beauty.
Best attractions and places to see in Pocahontas County
- The most popular attractions is Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, a historical site that was once a company town for the logging industry. It allows visitors to explore an authentic logging company town and experience scenic train rides.
- Another must-see spot is Webster Run Bridge, a historical bridge. This historical bridge was a busy freight route for the C&O railroad and now carries visitors over a bend in the Greenbrier River.
- Visitors also love Marlinton Depot, an old railway depot constructed in 1901. It has been restored and now serves as a visitor center, offering parking and access to the Greenbrier River Trail.
- Pocahontas County is known for its historical sites, natural parks, and scenic trails. Visitors can explore a variety of landscapes, from dense forests to unique botanical areas and historical landmarks.
- The attractions in Pocahontas County are appreciated by the komoot community, with 5 upvotes and 11 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Cass Scenic Railroad State Park
Highlight • Historical Site
Now, the site is open to visitors to come and learn more about the town and the industry that used to dominate the area. There are also locomotive rides available.
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Webster Run Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
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Mile 78.5 Campsite
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Marlinton Depot
Highlight • Monument
It was restored in 2017. It now has a visitor center, parking and is an access point to the Greenbrier River Trail.
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Sharps Tunnel and Bridge
Highlight • Structure
It is now open to hikers and bikers as part of the Greenbrier River Trail.
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Gaudineer Knob overlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Watoga State Park
Highlight • Natural
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Greenbrier River Trail
Highlight • Trail
The surface of the trail is a mix of asphalt and crushed stone.
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Seneca State Forest
Highlight • Forest
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Snowshoe Bike Park
Highlight • MTB Park
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Popular around Pocahontas County
Greenbrier River & Allegheny Highlands loop — Cycling through the heart of West Virginia’s wild beauty
Allegheny Trail — A remote Appalachian adventure
Greenbrier River Trail — Biking West Virginia's Longest Rail Trail
Hiking in Pocahontas County
Cycling in Pocahontas County
MTB Trails in Pocahontas County
Road Cycling Routes in Pocahontas County
Gravel biking in Pocahontas County
Running Trails in Pocahontas County
Other adventures in Pocahontas County
Tips from the Community
This campsite is one of several situated along the Greenbriar River, with a tent pad, a fire pit, and a picnic table. No permit is required, making it a fantastic place to spend the night while enjoying the soothing sounds of the river. It is also an excellent spot for fishing and serves as a reliable water source.
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Gaudineer Knob, at 4,449 feet, is the highest point of Shavers Mountain and is recognized for its untouched red spruce forest—remains of old-growth woodland that escaped logging in this area. Situated in the Monongahela National Forest, this overlook offers stunning views of the rolling West Virginia highlands. A short loop trail winds through the towering trees, leading to a bench with a panoramic vista of the Shavers Fork Valley. There are picnic tables and a vault toilet, making it a perfect spot to take a break, have a snack, and take in the incredible scenery.
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Situated in the mountains of Pocahontas County, Watoga State Park is West Virginia’s largest state park, covering an impressive 10,100 acres. It offers plenty of recreational activities, including 40 miles of hiking trails, cabins, and fishing and boating opportunities in Watoga Lake. In October 2021, the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) recognized Watoga State Park as an official Dark Sky Park, making it a fantastic location for camping under the spectacular starry skies of Almost Heaven.
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Seneca State Forest is West Virginia's oldest and largest state forest, spanning an impressive 12,884 acres. It is a rugged and remote outdoor playground with 23 miles of scenic trails, including sections of the Allegheny and Greenbrier River Trails, perfect for hiking and biking to explore this vast picturesque area.
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This campsite is one of several situated along the Greenbrier River, with a a tent pad, a fire pit, and a picnic table. No permit is required, making it a fantastic place to spend the night while enjoying the soothing sounds of the river. It is also an excellent spot for fishing and serves as a reliable water source.
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This is the site of the former company town called Cass. It was owned by the West Virginia Pulp and Paper Company and used as a home base for the men who worked in the nearby mountains. Now, the site is open to visitors to come and learn more about the town and the industry that used to dominate the area. There are also locomotive rides available.
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Back in the 1920s this was a busy freight route for the C&O railroad, and a signpost by the trail tells the tale of a derailed boxcar that smashed into the river and destroyed half the bridge. Today the bridge is in good working order and carries you over a bend in the Greenbriar River.
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This is the site of the former company town called Cass. It was owned by the West Virginia Pulp and Paper Company and used as a home base for the men who worked in the nearby mountains. Now, the site is open to visitors to come and learn more about the town and the industry that used to dominate the area. There are also locomotive rides available.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore in Pocahontas County?
Pocahontas County is rich in natural beauty, with a significant portion of the Monongahela National Forest within its borders. You can explore various state parks like Watoga State Park, West Virginia's largest, offering extensive trails and a lake. Other notable natural sites include the unique rock formations at Beartown State Park, the series of waterfalls at Falls of Hills Creek, and the rare boreal bogs of Cranberry Glades Botanical Area. Don't miss the panoramic views from Gaudineer Knob overlook.
Are there good hiking trails in Pocahontas County?
Yes, Pocahontas County offers numerous hiking opportunities. The Monongahela National Forest alone boasts over 400 miles of trails. The Greenbrier River Trail is a popular choice for both hiking and biking. For more specific hiking routes, you can find various options, including easy trails like Silver Creek Loop, in the Easy hikes in Pocahontas County guide.
What historical sites should I visit in Pocahontas County?
Pocahontas County is steeped in history. A must-visit is Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, where you can explore an authentic logging company town and take scenic train rides. Other significant historical sites include Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park, the site of a Civil War battle, and the restored Marlinton Depot, which now serves as a visitor center and access point to the Greenbrier River Trail. The Green Bank Observatory, home to the world's largest fully steerable radio telescope, also offers guided tours.
Are there family-friendly activities in Pocahontas County?
Absolutely! Many attractions cater to families. Cass Scenic Railroad State Park provides an engaging historical experience with train rides. Watoga State Park offers hiking, fishing, and boating. The Cranberry Glades Botanical Area features an accessible boardwalk perfect for all ages to explore unique plant life. The Gaudineer Knob overlook is also a great spot for a family picnic with stunning views.
What cycling opportunities are available in Pocahontas County?
Cycling enthusiasts will enjoy the Greenbrier River Trail, a scenic rail trail perfect for biking. For more challenging rides, the Snowshoe Bike Park offers various mountain biking trails. You can find detailed routes and guides for different cycling experiences in the MTB Trails in Pocahontas County and Cycling in Pocahontas County guides.
Where can I experience unique natural features in the region?
For truly unique natural features, visit the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, which hosts five boreal-type bogs with cranberries and carnivorous pitcher plants. Beartown State Park is another gem, known for its massive rock formations, overhanging cliffs, and deep crevices, which can be explored via boardwalks. The Falls of Hills Creek also offer a scenic series of three waterfalls, with the largest being 65 feet.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions in Pocahontas County?
Yes, the Marlinton Depot, a restored railway station, is wheelchair accessible and serves as a visitor center. Additionally, the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area features a fully accessible boardwalk, allowing visitors of all mobilities to explore its unique ecosystem.
Can I go stargazing in Pocahontas County?
Pocahontas County is an excellent destination for stargazing. Watoga State Park, Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park, and Calvin Price State Forest are all recognized as International Dark Sky Parks, offering pristine conditions for observing the night sky.
What is the best time to visit Pocahontas County for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Pocahontas County for outdoor activities largely depends on your interests. Spring and summer are ideal for hiking, cycling, and water activities on the county's many rivers. Fall is particularly popular for its stunning foliage, offering breathtaking scenic drives along the Highland Scenic Highway and vibrant hiking experiences. Winter provides opportunities for snow sports, especially around areas like Snowshoe.
Where can I learn about the region's logging and railroad history?
To delve into the region's logging and railroad history, visit Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, which preserves an authentic logging company town and offers train rides on historic lines. The Marlinton Depot and other restored train depots like Durbin and Clover Lick also highlight this rich past. The Pocahontas County Historical Society Museum provides further insights with exhibits on logging and railroad artifacts.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known attractions in Pocahontas County?
Beyond the main attractions, consider visiting the Thorny Mountain Fire Tower in Seneca State Forest, which offers unique overnight stays and sweeping views. The Pearl S. Buck Birthplace provides a glimpse into the life of the Nobel and Pulitzer Prize-winning author. The Pocahontas County Quilt Trail, featuring 19 quilt patterns on barns, offers a charming and unique way to explore the county's rural landscapes and history.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
Pocahontas County's extensive forests and natural areas, particularly within the Monongahela National Forest and Calvin Price State Forest, are excellent for wildlife viewing. You might spot white-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkeys, and a variety of bird species. The Cranberry Glades Botanical Area is also home to unique flora, including carnivorous pitcher plants.
Most popular routes in Pocahontas County
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