North Fork Mountain Trail
Ridgeline running with Civil War history.
The North Fork Mountain Trail follows an old fire road for 24 miles along one of West Virginia’s most spectacular ridgelines, offering unobstructed views into Germany Valley 1,500 feet below. Starting from Smoke Hole Road, the route climbs through mixed hardwoods to emerge on the ridge where Civil War signal stations once operated. The trail’s signature obstacle comes at Pike Knob, where loose shale and off-camber sections have claimed more than a few side panels over the years.
Moderate difficulty with a few expert-level sections, particularly the descent toward Bismarck Tower. High-clearance vehicles handle most of it, but 4WD helps on steep grades and loose rock. Best May through October when gates are open. No permits needed, and camping is allowed along the ridge with killer sunrise views. This route puts you on top of the world without the Rockies price tag – just you, the ridge, and more wild country than you can see in a day.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Historic, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 24 mi / 38.6 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 4400 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Petersburg, WV |
| Land manager | US Forest Service |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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