Big Draft Wilderness

The 5,144-acre Big Draft Wilderness is on the southern tip of the Forest, just south of Blue Bend Recreation Area and about five miles north of White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. Slopes within the area range from 10 to 60% and are typically long ridges with narrow summits and mountain slopes. Elevations range from 1,800 feet to over 3,100 feet. The primary vegetative type is oak and hickory, with pockets of hemlock and white pine. The understory consists of rhododendron, mixed shrubs, grasses and ferns. This is a popular area for a variety of recreation. Use is considered moderate to high most of the year, primarily by hikers, hunters, paddlers and anglers. The 14-mile trail system is open to hikers and equestrians, with the exception of the Blue Bend Loop trail, where no stock use is permitted. The area provides numerous scenic views.