Spruce Knob, WVA

“Has anyone backpacked on this peak? Are there any good trails. I want to find a trail in that area that is rugged, has lots of elevation gain/loss, great views and scenery, plus good milege. Any suggestions? I am thinking of doing the trip in the begining of June. How are the crowds in this area at that time?

Thanks”

“anyone have any photos from Spruce Knob? I am entrigued because it is the highest point in WVA at 4768 feet.”

“I believe it's 4861 feet.

There is a nice trail that runs from the parking lot on top of Spruce Knob northward through spruce forest and some open meadows. It goes down into Seneca Creek. You could put together a circuit hike if you don't mind walking up the road to connect between the two on the south side.

Both Seneca Creek and the Huckleberry Trail on top are very nice trails. There is a small meadow at Judy Springs that makes a nice campsite. It used to be a backcountry campground.”

“There is an observation tower on top of Spruce Knob with really great views. The road up there brings a lot of tourons. But there are picnic tables, and, of course, the trailhead.”

“Its a dusty 12 mile drive to the top......unless the gravel road is wet.

If you get stuck behind someone on the way up, be prepared to get powdered.”

“I want to hike to the top. I don't feel right driving to the top of mountains.”

“I'd like to start near the base and hike to the peak and then hike along the ridge somewhere and camp and the next day hike back to my car. A loop is preferred. Like to do 20-25 miles over two days, one night.”

“There is no trail from the bottom to the top. The road goes over Spruce Mountain, with a side road to the knob and observation tower.

The best you can do is drive down the other side to the Seneca Creek trailhead, hike back to Judy Springs, and take the trail up from that area. Then you have the option of backtracking or taking roads down to the trailhead.

The trail networks in the Monongahela are not as extensive as we might like.”

“But they are impressively beautiful.”