Laurel Fork South Wilderness

Although sometimes listed as two areas, Laurel Fork Wilderness straddles the Laurel Fork of the Cheat River, and only the corridor of County Route 40 separates the north and south portions. The narrow river valley runs north to south below regularly dissected slopes and long, slim ridges, fed by numerous side streams. Immediately to the east stands Rich Mountain; to the west looms Middle Mountain, with elevations over 3,700 feet. An almost continuous forest cover dominated by beech, maple, black cherry, birch, and yellow poplar is broken only by grassy meadows along the Laurel Fork itself. White-tailed deer live here with wild turkeys, bobcats, and beavers. You might occasionally spot a few black bears, although you are more likely to see some of the myriad resident bird species. You may catch native brook and brown trout in the river, but heavy brush can make casting difficult. Winters typically bring heavy snows; temperatures are pleasant in summer. The Laurel River North and Laurel River South Trails, both five miles long, follow the river from a central trailhead at Laurel Fork Campground. One side trail in the northern portion and three in the south leave the Wilderness heading west to Forest Service Road 14. No trails exist on the east side of the area. In all, there are approximately 14 miles of trails in the Laurel Fork North and Laurel Fork South systems. No permit or fee is required to enter or camp. Group size is limited to 10 people per party, and groups larger than 10 must split and remain at least 200 yards apart. Camping is prohibited within 200 feet of any stream or trail, and camping at trailheads is not allowed. Many trails here are steep and rocky and not conducive to stock use.