With almost one million acres, ten WV counties, and more than four hours of travel from top to bottom, the Monongahela National Forest touches not only our pilot towns but dozens more communities. What began as a dream in 2017 has grown into a collaborative mission to bring sustainable economic development to West Virginia’s hidden gems, improving the quality of life for residents and tourists alike.
Today, approximately 1.3 million visitors come to the Monongahela National Forest each year. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking vistas, peaceful country roads, gently flowing streams, and glimpses of many plants and animals. Established in 1920, the ‘Mon’ encompasses one of the most ecologically diverse areas in the United States, with elevations from just under 1,000 feet to 4,863 feet above sea level.
The Mononghalea is a ‘working’ forest providing timber, water, grazing, minerals, and recreational opportunities. The national importance of the recreation resource of the Monongahela has been recognized through the designation of the Spruce Knob – Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area, the first of its kind in the Forest Service history, National Scenic Byway status for the Highland Scenic Highway, eight Wilderness Areas, and dozens of National Scenic Landmarks.
Dispersed recreation opportunities abound for hiking, backpacking, fishing, hunting, mountain biking, climbing, and kayaking. The IMBA Ride Center in Marlinton brings mountain bike riders from all over America to its international events. Plan your trip to our Mon Forest Towns using our interactive recreation map and #FindYourMon! Whether you need a place to lay your head, a cozy spot to throw down a cool local brew, or want to participate in one of our many festivals throughout the year, our Mon Forest Towns and county visitor bureau partners are waiting for you!
To learn more about the Mon Forest Towns recreation economy development process, visit – https://publicinterestdesign.wvu.edu/mon-forest-towns/process
For more information about the Mon Forest Towns Partnership and opportunities to get involved, contact
For media inquiries, contact Chelsea Faulknier at
