Pocahontas Trail
Coal country backcountry through mining history
The Pocahontas Trail winds through the heart of West Virginia’s coal country, following old logging and mining roads that once hauled black diamonds from the hills. This 18-mile route connects a network of forest service roads through the Monongahela National Forest, passing abandoned mining camps like Kennison and crossing Cranberry River multiple times. The trail’s highlight is the ruins of the old Pocahontas mine operation, where concrete foundations and rusted equipment tell the story of Appalachian industry.
This moderate trail requires high-clearance 4WD for the rocky creek crossings and steep climbs through hardwood forests. Best tackled April through October when water levels are manageable, though expect muddy conditions after rain. No permits needed, but fuel up in Marlinton beforehand — services are 30+ miles away once you’re committed. The payoff is solitude in some of West Virginia’s most pristine backcountry, with excellent dispersed camping along Cranberry River.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 3400 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Marlinton, WV |
| Land manager | Monongahela National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner or Wrangler handle Pocahontas Trail without modifications?
Yes — a stock 4WD with decent ground clearance is the listed minimum and will manage the trail in dry conditions. Lifted rigs have more margin on the stream crossings and any rutted sections after rain, but bone-stock high-clearance 4WD gets it done.
When does the trail become impassable or sketchy to run?
Best window is April through October. Winter brings snow and ice at elevation that can make the crossings and climbs genuinely dangerous. Spring runoff in March-April can swell the stream crossings significantly — check recent conditions before you go.
Do I need a permit to run Pocahontas Trail or camp along it?
No permit required for the trail itself. It runs through Monongahela National Forest where dispersed camping is allowed — follow the standard 14-day limit and 300-foot setback from water and roads. No fees as of current Forest Service rules.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect?
The stream crossings are the crux — water depth varies with recent rainfall and can catch you off guard. The trail is rated moderate, but slick rocky stream beds and loose surfaces on the climbs keep you honest. Nothing technical enough to require a spotter, but not a mindless cruise either.
How far out am I for gas and supplies, and is there any cell service on trail?
Cell service is zero on this trail — plan accordingly and download offline maps before you leave. Marlinton is your nearest resupply town; fuel up there before heading in, as 18 miles of mixed terrain burns more than highway miles and you don't want to be doing math on fumes in the backcountry.
Trail track
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