Monongahela National Forest Ramsey’s Draft Wilderness Trailhead

This trailhead accesses Ramsey’s Draft Wilderness, a 6,500-acre sanctuary protecting some of Virginia’s last virgin forest. The trail follows an old logging road turned footpath through towering ancient hemlocks, some over 300 years old. It’s a moderate 7-mile out-and-back hike to the heart of the wilderness, with crystal-clear streams and exceptional solitude. No bikes or motorized vehicles allowed past the wilderness boundary.

Forest Road 95 leads to the parking area—gravel but manageable for any vehicle. The lot holds about 15 cars and fills on weekends during peak leaf season. Water crossing at the trailhead requires careful footing on slick rocks. Best accessed April through November; winter brings icy conditions on the forest road approach.

Gateway to Virginia's virgin hemlock wilderness