Big Branch Wilderness Access Road
Historic logging road to wilderness boundary
Big Branch Wilderness Access Road (FR 18) penetrates deep into the Monongahela backcountry, following an old railroad grade that once hauled massive hemlocks from these virgin forests. The 12-mile route crosses Big Branch Creek seven times before dead-ending at the wilderness boundary, passing remnants of the old Ritter Lumber Company operation including concrete bridge abutments and rusted cables. The final three miles turn nasty with washouts and embedded rocks that’ll have you picking lines carefully.
This easy-to-moderate trail suits any stock 4WD with decent ground clearance, though the creek crossings can get dicey during spring runoff or heavy rains. May through September offers the best conditions when water levels drop and roads firm up. No permits needed for the access road itself, but backpacking into the adjacent wilderness requires different rules. Gas up in Elkins before heading out — you’re 25 miles from the nearest pump once committed to this route.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 12 mi / 19.3 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 3200 ft |
| Best season | May-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Elkins, WV |
| Land manager | Monongahela National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| 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 Tacoma or 4Runner run Big Branch without any mods?
Yes, a stock 4WD high-clearance rig handles this trail fine under normal conditions. The creek fords are the only real variable — after heavy rain they can push deeper and wider, so check recent conditions before you go.
When is Big Branch actually drivable, and what kills access in the off-season?
May through September is the reliable window. Spring snowmelt and winter freeze-thaw cycles chew up the surface and can make the creek crossings dangerous; Monongahela National Forest also gates some access roads during mud season to prevent damage.
Do I need a permit or do I pay a fee to run this trail?
No permit and no day-use fee for the road itself — it's Monongahela National Forest. If you're camping overnight, dispersed camping is free but you must follow the 14-day stay limit and Leave No Trace rules; some designated sites nearby may require a fee, so confirm with the Cheat-Potomac Ranger District if you're unsure.
What's the hardest part of the trail and what should I actually be ready for?
The creek fords are the crux — nothing technical in terms of rock or steep shelf road, but the crossings can surprise you if water is running high after rain. Pick your line carefully, check depth on foot first, and understand that 1,400 feet of elevation gain on a mixed forest service surface means loose, rutted sections that get slick when wet.
How far is the nearest gas from the trailhead, and is there cell service if something goes wrong?
Elkins is your last reliable fuel stop, roughly 20-30 miles out depending on your approach — top off before you leave town. Cell service is spotty to nonexistent on trail, so carry a satellite communicator; don't count on getting a signal out if you need help.
Trail track
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