Monongahela National Forest

Spanning the Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia, Monongahela National Forest sprawls across 900,000 acres of diverse landscapes. Its lush forests, rolling hills, and rugged mountains create a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With abundant trails, including those in the designated Cranberry Wilderness, hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching are popular pursuits. The forest offers primitive and roadside camping, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature. While embracing its wilderness charm, it’s important to note that limited cell service adds to the authentic back-to-nature experience. From the Allegheny Plateau to mountainous terrains, Monongahela National Forest beckons adventurers to explore its untouched beauty and embrace the outdoor splendor of the Appalachian region.

https://www.fs.usda.gov/mnf
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monongahela_National_Forest

Parsons, WV

|

I was just thinking back from that trip nearly a year ago to West Virigina. Seems like the time goes by so quickly. As seen from Olsen Firetower.

Taken on Thursday October 26, 2023 at Monongahela National Forest.

Allegheny Wood Products owner selling land to Mon Forest

|

Allegheny Wood Products owner selling land to Mon Forest

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WBOY) — The owner of Allegheny Wood Products (AWP), a company that closed eight West Virginia locations earlier this year, has agreed to sell 2,700 acres in Tucker County to the U.S. Forest Service.

John Crites has agreed to move forward with the sale, according to a press release from the office of Sen. Joe Manchin (I-WV), which will include land in the Blackwater Canyon that borders Blackwater Falls State Park and the Monongahela National Forest as well as a portion of the Blackwater River.

According to Friends of Blackwater Director Judy Rodd, the purchase also includes the land that tourists see from Lindy Point in Blackwater Falls State Park—which is one of the most famous views from the park and is considered the “scenic crown jewel” of West Virginia—and the Big Run Bridge on the Blackwater Canyon Trail, which was damaged in a landslide earlier this year. At the time, there was question about who should maintain the trail because it was on privately owned land. After this sale, the land and section of trail from the Crites family will be publicly owned and maintained by the Monongahela National Forest.