Trip Highlights
Day 1
Bowden
Climb a fire tower & take a hike in the Mon Forest
Breakfast
Start your day with donuts and coffee from Byrds House of Donuts–arguably the best donut you’ll find (we aren’t biased or anything).
Morning
- Stop by the Elkins Depot Welcome Center for maps, information, and everything you need for your trek into the Monongahela National Forest.
- Grab a fresh to-go lunch from Clementine’s Cantina to enjoy later on while you’re on the trail. Clementine’s freshly made burritos, salads, and taco bowls are always a hit. Don’t forget the guacamole.
- Head East on Route 33 out of Elkins and take the left onto Old Route 33. Follow the Monongahela National Forest Signs and make your way up the mountain along Stuart Memorial Drive or Forest Road 91.
Did You Know?
Built in 1933 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, offers 360-degree panoramic views of Randolph County. It is one of the few remaining observation towers in the Monongahela National Forest. From the parking lot, it is less than a 5-minute walk to get to the tower.
Lunch
Enjoy your delicious packed lunch atop Bickle Knob, or dig in once you drive down the mountain to the next trailhead at Stuart Recreation Area.
Afternoon
- Head down into the Day Use area or park before the Campground near the River Loop Trail, which is a 2-mile jaunt along the Shavers Fork River. If you prefer to drive down into the Day Use area to park, picnic, or swim in the river, it is $5/car.
Dinner
The Alpine Lodge is located a short drive from the Bowden recreation area. Continue out Route 33 East to dine at this hidden gem of a restaurant. Enjoy lamb, lobster, steaks, and more, cooked fresh and hot in a cozy atmosphere. Reservations recommended!
Day 2
Huttonsville, Beverly
Hike or Bike at Kumbrabow State Forest & Experience History in Beverly
Breakfast
Grab a latte, a breakfast sandwich, fruit and yogurt or delicious pastries from Great Harvest Baking before heading up the valley to Kumbrabow State Forest.
Morning
- Head South on 219 and travel to Kumbrabow State Forest, where you’ll find hiking trails, and Mill Creek Falls, one of the waterfalls on the West Virginia Waterfall Trail. Make sure to check in at the waterfall and snap some photos of this picturesque attraction.
- Hike or bike some of the trails and explore the Forest around you.
Did You Know?
Perched along the Allegheny Mountains in Randolph County, Kumbrabow State Forest is West Virginia’s highest forest and the only state forest located in the county.
Afternoon
- Travel back to Beverly, a hidden treasure of history in West Virginia. Take a walk through the historic downtown with a self-guided tour brochure – you can pick one up at the Beverly Heritage Center where you can learn more about local history and culture of Randolph County.
- If you’re up for a fun challenge, experience the Escape Room at the 1841 Randolph County Jail Escape Room.
- Meander through the town and make sure to check out the many antique shops.
Dinner
Choose from one of our unique restaurants, including Mi Fiesta for Mexican cuisine, or Carrie’s Happy Day Cafe for a pizza, burger, or pepperoni roll in Beverly.
Day 3
Gaudineer Knob and Elkins
Explore Gaudineer Knob and Scenic Area and Fox Forest Wildlife Management Area
Breakfast
Since you’ll be hiking at Gaudineer Knob and Scenic Area enjoy a hearty breakfast at Scottie’s of Elkins for a range of eggs (any way you want them), fried potatoes, pancakes, French toast, warm buttered toast, and more.
Morning
- Pack your lunch to enjoy at the Gaudineer Scenic Area. Consider a fresh sub from Subway, orna grab and go option from The Crossing Coffeebar.
- Drive South on 219/250 until you reach Forest Service Road 27A and Gaudineer Scenic Area.
- The 140-acre Gaudineer Scenic Area is located near Gaudineer Knob at 4,432 feet in elevation, of Shavers Mountain in Randolph and Pocahontas Counties.
- This is a 1-mile loop underneath the large spruce trees to a beautiful overlook where you can see miles and miles of West Virginia mountains. There are several hiking trails below the summit and these are worth checking out as well.
Pro Tip
Forest Service road 27A is well maintained and leads right to the summit, Gaudineer Knob, where there is a gravel parking area, picnic tables, trash receptacles, toilets, and lots of old growth red spruce trees.
Afternoon
- Hike back to Trailhead
- Drive back to Elkins for some afternoon shopping at some of the downtown shops, but grab an iced coffee first at Tiptop or The Crossing Coffeebar to fuel your afternoon.
- Shop for vintage clothing at The Mossy Merchant or Clementine’s Closet, lovely artisan pieces at Artists at Work or The Delmonte Market.
- If you’re looking for a hike close to the downtown, check out the easily accessible, Fox Forest Management Area for a scenic stroll (4 miles of maintained trail) in the late afternoon before heading to dinner.
Dinner
Enjoy the beautiful downtown setting and choose the lounge at the Oxley House or sit on their porch into the evening. Enjoy a fabulous cocktail and fresh menu items. Scroll through your photos from the past few days and start planning your next getaway to Randolph County.