- Region
- WV, USA
- Country
- United States
- Best for
- hiking
- Best season
- Spring, Summer
- Permits
- Voluntary visitor registration is encourag…
- Managed by
- U.S. Forest Service, Monongahela National Forest, Gauley Ranger District. Gauley District Richwood Office: 932 Northfork Cherry Road, Richwood, WV 26261; (304) 846-2695.
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Photos of Cranberry Wilderness
How to get there
From I-79, take Exit 57 and follow U.S. 19 south to Route 55 east, then Route 150. From I-64, take Exit 169 and follow U.S. 219 north to Route 39 west, then Route 150. Route 150 is the Highland Scenic Highway; it is not snowplowed in winter and is closed to vehicular traffic then. Other listed access locations include Cranberry Campground and Forest Road 86.
- Big Beechy Trailhead
Located off the Highland Scenic Highway at 38.294685, -80.247361. Winter vehicle access is affected by the highway's seasonal closure.
- Forks of Cranberry Trailhead
Located off the Highland Scenic Highway at 38.230937, -80.239656. Bring a map before arrival; maps are not stocked at wilderness trailheads.
- North South – West Trailhead
Located by Cranberry Campground at 38.323000, -80.438763.
- Three Forks Trailhead
Located on Forest Road 86 at 38.338399, -80.375164.
Sources: fs.usda.gov · University of Montana / federal agency partners · Wilderness Connect / federal wilderness boundary inventory. Confirm road and trailhead conditions with the managing agency before you leave.
WV, USA · United States
- Fishing
- Winter Camping
- Skiing
- Hiking
- Backpacking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Canoeing
- Photography
Broad mountains, deep river valleys
Cranberry Wilderness covers 47,815 acres in Pocahontas and Webster Counties, West Virginia, within Monongahela National Forest. It is the largest Forest Service wilderness area in the eastern United States. Broad mountains rise above deep, narrow valleys on the Allegheny Plateau, with elevations from 2,400 feet to more than 4,600 feet. The wilderness contains the drainages of the Middle Fork of the Williams River and the North Fork of the Cranberry River; the Williams River forms its northern boundary, and the South Fork of the Cranberry River marks the southwestern boundary. Appalachian hardwoods dominate, with red spruce at the highest elevations. More than 70 miles of maintained hiking trails support day hikes and backpacking trips, but maintained does not mean groomed or easy to follow. This is a place for hikers prepared to navigate, cross unbridged streams, and adjust plans to conditions.
Navigation and wet-foot travel
Trails in Cranberry Wilderness are not marked or blazed, and signs are found only at trail junctions. Rock cairns sometimes indicate difficult stretches, but they are not reliable navigation aids. Trail alignments can also differ from what maps show. Bring a topographic map before arriving, since maps are not stocked at trailheads, and carry a compass with the skills to use it. Expect obstacles that can be stepped over, ducked under, or walked around to remain in place. Some trails are steep, rocky, boggy, or reduced to narrow footpaths. There are no bridges over rivers or streams, and high water can make fording hazardous; turn back rather than force an unsafe crossing. Mud and wet feet are normal planning considerations. The 9-mile Middle Fork Trail and 7.5-mile North Fork Trail are named options, but their listed lengths should not be treated as complete round-trip itineraries.
Weather, water, and wildlife
Frost can occur in any month, so pack insulation and rain protection even for a warm-weather trip. Rain and snow affect the area in winter, spring, and fall, while winter snow can block road access. Route 150, the Highland Scenic Highway, is not snowplowed in winter and is closed to vehicular traffic then. Check access conditions before committing to a trailhead along that road. Potable water is not available at the site; carry drinking water and a suitable treatment method if relying on streams. Naturally acidic water limits fish populations, and wilderness streams are not stocked. Cranberry Wilderness lies within the Black Bear Sanctuary, where black bears are abundant. Keep food and scented items secured and give wildlife space. White-tailed deer, wild turkeys, grouse, mink, bobcats, and foxes also inhabit these forests and valleys.
Wilderness rules and overnight planning
Groups larger than 10 people are prohibited, and pets must remain under control. Motorized and mechanical equipment, including bicycles and carts, are prohibited within the wilderness. Horses and other stock are permitted, but their use is discouraged: trails are maintained for people, and rocky or soft ground can injure animals or suffer damage. Visitor registration is encouraged, not mandatory, using a form at a trailhead or Nature Center. For camping, the Forest Service recommends choosing a site at least 200 feet from roads, streams, and trails to protect solitude. Campfires are discouraged; bring a cook stove instead. Pack out all trash, and bury human waste 7–8 inches deep at least 200 feet from roads, streams, and trails. Stay on designated trails rather than creating new paths. Before departure, confirm current conditions and any additional requirements with the Gauley Ranger District.
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to Cranberry Wilderness, United States. Use the + / − buttons, or click the map to zoom with your scroll wheel; drag to pan and pinch to zoom on touch.
Coordinates
- Decimal degrees
- 38.2830, -80.3268
- Latitude (DMS)
- 38° 16′ 58.6″ N
- Longitude (DMS)
- 80° 19′ 36.6″ W
Coordinates are an access-point reference for Cranberry Wilderness, not a route. Carry a paper map and confirm trailhead or put-in access with the managing agency before you go.
Topic summary
The 47,815 acre Cranberry Wilderness is located in Pocahontas and Webster Counties, West Virginia. Broad mountains are dissected by deep and narrow valleys with elevations ranging from 2,400 feet to...
Key takeaways
- Region: WV, USA
- Country: United States
- Good for: hiking
- Coordinates: 38.283, -80.327
Intended uses
hiking
Keep planning
Popular pursuits at Cranberry Wilderness
- Fishing
Resident gamefish, seasons, and the water that holds them.
- Winter Camping
Cold-season travel and camp craft; layering matters more than mileage.
- Skiing
Ski-touring access when the road closes for the season.
- Hiking
Day miles on marked trail, with route notes and trail links below.
- Backpacking
Multi-day travel with everything on your back — see the packing blocks below.
- Wildlife Viewing
Best light, best season, and where animals move.
Animals around Cranberry Wilderness
Wildlife guideBlack bearUrsus americanus
Big gameWhitetail DeerOdocoileus virginianus
GamefishBrook TroutSalvelinus fontinalis
Wildlife guideNorth American beaverCastor canadensis
Big gameBlack BearUrsus americanus
GamefishSmallmouth BassMicropterus dolomieu
Wildlife guideSnowshoe hareLepus americanus
Big gameWild HogSus scrofa
Broad mountains, deep river valleys
Cranberry Wilderness covers 47,815 acres in Pocahontas and Webster Counties, West Virginia, within Monongahela National Forest. It is the largest Forest Service wilderness area in the eastern United States. Broad mountains rise above deep, narrow valleys on the Allegheny Plateau, with elevations from 2,400 feet to more than 4,600 feet. The wilderness contains the drainages of the Middle Fork of the Williams River and the North Fork of the Cranberry River; the Williams River forms its northern boundary, and the South Fork of the Cranberry River marks the southwestern boundary. Appalachian hardwoods dominate, with red spruce at the highest elevations. More than 70 miles of maintained hiking trails support day hikes and backpacking trips, but maintained does not mean groomed or easy to follow. This is a place for hikers prepared to navigate, cross unbridged streams, and adjust plans to conditions.
Navigation and wet-foot travel
Trails in Cranberry Wilderness are not marked or blazed, and signs are found only at trail junctions. Rock cairns sometimes indicate difficult stretches, but they are not reliable navigation aids. Trail alignments can also differ from what maps show. Bring a topographic map before arriving, since maps are not stocked at trailheads, and carry a compass with the skills to use it. Expect obstacles that can be stepped over, ducked under, or walked around to remain in place. Some trails are steep, rocky, boggy, or reduced to narrow footpaths. There are no bridges over rivers or streams, and high water can make fording hazardous; turn back rather than force an unsafe crossing. Mud and wet feet are normal planning considerations. The 9-mile Middle Fork Trail and 7.5-mile North Fork Trail are named options, but their listed lengths should not be treated as complete round-trip itineraries.
Weather, water, and wildlife
Frost can occur in any month, so pack insulation and rain protection even for a warm-weather trip. Rain and snow affect the area in winter, spring, and fall, while winter snow can block road access. Route 150, the Highland Scenic Highway, is not snowplowed in winter and is closed to vehicular traffic then. Check access conditions before committing to a trailhead along that road. Potable water is not available at the site; carry drinking water and a suitable treatment method if relying on streams. Naturally acidic water limits fish populations, and wilderness streams are not stocked. Cranberry Wilderness lies within the Black Bear Sanctuary, where black bears are abundant. Keep food and scented items secured and give wildlife space. White-tailed deer, wild turkeys, grouse, mink, bobcats, and foxes also inhabit these forests and valleys.
Wilderness rules and overnight planning
Groups larger than 10 people are prohibited, and pets must remain under control. Motorized and mechanical equipment, including bicycles and carts, are prohibited within the wilderness. Horses and other stock are permitted, but their use is discouraged: trails are maintained for people, and rocky or soft ground can injure animals or suffer damage. Visitor registration is encouraged, not mandatory, using a form at a trailhead or Nature Center. For camping, the Forest Service recommends choosing a site at least 200 feet from roads, streams, and trails to protect solitude. Campfires are discouraged; bring a cook stove instead. Pack out all trash, and bury human waste 7–8 inches deep at least 200 feet from roads, streams, and trails. Stay on designated trails rather than creating new paths. Before departure, confirm current conditions and any additional requirements with the Gauley Ranger District.
Route options
- Middle Fork Trail9 miles
A river-following trail along the Middle Fork of the Williams River. Plan with a topographic map rather than assuming the listed trail length describes an out-and-back or loop. Wilderness trails are unblazed, and stream crossings have no bridges.
- North Fork Trail7.5 miles
A river-following option along the North Fork of the Cranberry River. Account for wet trail conditions and unbridged crossings when planning. The listed distance is the trail length, not a specified round-trip itinerary.
Sample itineraries
- Big Beechy Trailhead Day Hike · 1 day
Start at Big Beechy Trailhead off the Highland Scenic Highway for a self-paced out-and-back. Choose a turnaround using a topographic map, daylight and conditions rather than a fixed mileage goal. Expect unblazed trails and natural obstacles; carry a compass and avoid unsafe stream crossings.
- Middle Fork Trail Overnight · 2 days
Build an overnight around a section of the 9-mile Middle Fork Trail in the Williams River drainage. Use the wilderness trail map to select access and confirm connections. Leave time for navigation and unbridged crossings. Choose a low-impact campsite, preferably at least 200 feet from roads, streams and trails.
- North Fork Trail Backpack · 3 days
Plan a relaxed backpack around the 7.5-mile North Fork Trail in the Cranberry River drainage. Confirm access and daily stages with a topographic map; this is not a specified loop. Allow spare time for wet footing and route-finding, and shorten the trip if stream levels make crossings unsafe.
Seasonal conditions
Spring
Spring; frost remains possible
Rain or snow can fall. Trails may be wet, muddy or boggy, and unbridged stream crossings require particular caution during high water. Carry insulation and waterproof protection rather than assuming mild conditions.
Summer
Summer; frost remains possible
Frost can occur even in summer across this wilderness, which ranges from 2,400 to over 4,600 feet. Pack warm layers for overnight trips. Wet trails and unbridged crossings still require appropriate footwear and conservative decisions.
Fall
Fall; rain or snow possible
Prepare for precipitation and freezing conditions among Appalachian hardwoods and higher-elevation red spruce. Waterproof layers and dry sleeping gear matter on overnight trips. Check weather and access before committing to a route.
Winter
Winter; Highland Scenic Highway vehicle closure
The Highland Scenic Highway is not snowplowed and is closed to vehicular traffic in winter. Snow may block other road access. Confirm access before departure and prepare for snow, cold and difficult navigation on unblazed trails.
| Season | Window | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Spring; frost remains possible | Rain or snow can fall. Trails may be wet, muddy or boggy, and unbridged stream crossings require particular caution during high water. Carry insulation and waterproof protection rather than assuming mild conditions. |
| Summer | Summer; frost remains possible | Frost can occur even in summer across this wilderness, which ranges from 2,400 to over 4,600 feet. Pack warm layers for overnight trips. Wet trails and unbridged crossings still require appropriate footwear and conservative decisions. |
| Fall | Fall; rain or snow possible | Prepare for precipitation and freezing conditions among Appalachian hardwoods and higher-elevation red spruce. Waterproof layers and dry sleeping gear matter on overnight trips. Check weather and access before committing to a route. |
| Winter | Winter; Highland Scenic Highway vehicle closure | The Highland Scenic Highway is not snowplowed and is closed to vehicular traffic in winter. Snow may block other road access. Confirm access before departure and prepare for snow, cold and difficult navigation on unblazed trails. |
Permits, fees & closures
Voluntary visitor registration is encouraged at the trailhead or Nature Center; it is not mandatory. Groups larger than 10 people are prohibited. Confirm any additional trip requirements with the Gauley Ranger District.
Official source: Monongahela National Forest | Cranberry Wilderness · Verified October 19, 2026
Hazards & regulations
- Stream crossings have no bridges. High water can make fords unsafe; turn back rather than force a crossing.
- Trails are not marked or blazed, and signs occur only at junctions. Cairns may be unreliable, and trail locations can differ from maps.
- Steep, rocky, muddy and boggy trails can slow travel. Natural obstacles are often left in place.
- Frost can occur year-round. Elevations above 4,600 feet and wet conditions warrant warm layers and protected sleeping gear.
- Winter snow can block access. The Highland Scenic Highway is closed to vehicular traffic in winter.
- Black bears inhabit the wilderness. Secure food and scented items, keep a clean camp and give wildlife space.
What to pack for Cranberry Wilderness
- Topographic map obtained before arrival; maps are not stocked at trailheads
- Compass and the skills to use it
- Wilderness trail and boundary maps
- Supportive footwear suitable for rocky, muddy trails
- Spare socks and dry camp layers
- Rain jacket and waterproof gear protection
- Warm insulation and season-appropriate sleeping gear
- Drinking water and a water-treatment method; potable water is unavailable
- Lightweight cook stove and lantern instead of a campfire
- Food-storage equipment appropriate for black bear country
- Trash bags for packing out all waste
- Trowel for burying human waste 7–8 inches deep
- Plan for sanitation at least 200 feet from roads, streams and trails
Cranberry Wilderness FAQ
- Where is Cranberry Wilderness, and what is the terrain like?
- It covers 47,815 acres in West Virginia’s Pocahontas and Webster Counties within Monongahela National Forest. Broad mountains and deep valleys occupy the Allegheny Plateau, with elevations from 2,400 to over 4,600 feet. Appalachian hardwoods dominate, with red spruce higher up.
- Where are the trailheads?
- Big Beechy, North South–East and Forks of Cranberry trailheads are off the Highland Scenic Highway. North South–West is by Cranberry Campground. Three Forks and County Line trailheads are on Forest Road 86. Check seasonal road access before choosing a starting point.
- How difficult is navigation?
- More than 70 miles of maintained hiking trails provide access, but they are unblazed. Signs are limited to trail junctions, cairns are unreliable, and trails may differ from mapped locations. Bring a topographic map and compass, and allow time for route-finding.
- What camping practices are recommended?
- Locate camp at least 200 feet from roads, streams and trails as a solitude guideline. Campfires are discouraged; use a lightweight stove instead. Pack out trash and bury human waste 7–8 inches deep at least 200 feet from roads, streams and trails.
- Are bikes, horses and dogs allowed?
- Bicycles and other mechanical transportation are prohibited. Horses and other stock are permitted but discouraged: trails are maintained for people and can be steep, rocky, boggy or narrow. Pets must remain under control at all times.
- Is drinking water available, and are streams stocked?
- Potable water is not available. Carry drinking water and a treatment method for backcountry use. Naturally acidic streams limit fish populations, and the streams are not stocked.