Pocahontas County Forest Road 22 Little Mountain Loop

Forest Road 22 cuts deep into Little Mountain’s forgotten coal country, where rusted tipples and overgrown mine portals tell stories of West Virginia’s industrial past. The 18-mile loop starts near Marlinton and climbs through second-growth hardwoods to expose spectacular views across the Greenbrier Valley. Key waypoints include the abandoned Kee Mine complex at mile 7 and the technical descent through Hurricane Branch, where seasonal creek crossings can turn nasty after spring rains.

This moderate trail demands high-clearance 4WD for the rocky sections near Hurricane Branch and soft spots in the coal waste areas. Best tackled May through October when the forest roads are passable, though hunters crowd the area during fall rifle season. No permits required, but fuel up in Marlinton — there’s nothing out here but solitude and the ghosts of Appalachian industry. Multiple dispersed camping spots along ridgelines offer sunrise views that’ll make you forget why you ever lived in the city.