Wayne National Forest Monday Creek Coal Heritage Loop

The Monday Creek drainage cuts deep into Athens County’s coal country, where abandoned strip mines and haul roads create a technical playground through Wayne National Forest. This loop follows old mining access roads that snake around reclaimed strip pits, with the highlight being a series of rocky creek crossings at Monday Creek itself where coal trucks once forded. The old Snowville Mine portal marks the halfway point, now gated but still visible from the main track.

Moderate difficulty with some technical moments at the creek crossings during high water — expect to get your undercarriage wet. Stock 4WD with skid plates recommended. Best tackled spring through fall when water levels are manageable. No permits needed, but this is active hunting ground so orange recommended during season. Solid day trip from Athens with dispersed camping options near the old mine sites. Cell service is hit-or-miss in the hollows.