Spruce Knob: Visit West Virginia’s High Point

Spruce Knob in West Virginia is a must-visit for the adventure lover. At 4,863 ft, it is the Mountain State’s highest mountain.  It’s located in remote Pendleton County, in the heart of the beautiful Monongahela National Forest. 

To get to the top of Spruce Knob, you don’t need to go on an epic hike.  There is a paved road near the top; then, it’s just a short hike. What this hike lacks in distance, it certainly makes up for in sweeping views. You can expect panoramic views of the surrounding Allegheny Mountains uninterrupted for miles upon miles.

West Virginia’s High Point

The half-mile Whispering Spruce Trails takes visitors to the top and the observation tower. Once you arrive, you are greeted with an unmistakable alpine feel. It’s clear the wind-blown red spruce and other fauna don’t grow to towering heights in the harsh environment. In the summer, Spruce Knob is often on the cooler side. Thunderstorms are very common from spring through summer. In the winter, it becomes inaccessible to vehicles, with an average of more than 150 inches of snow. 

The drive up to the top is steep but very beautiful. Forest Service Road 112 to 104 will get you to the summit. It’s paved the entire way, but like most roads in WV, expect a pothole or two.  Make sure to take your time on the drive; there are several pull-offs that offer tremendous views. Sunrise and sunset are particularly nice at the summit. 

If you get the chance, try and visit from the middle of September to mid-October for an amazing display of fall foliage. The drive to the summit and the more than 75 miles of surrounding hiking trails are extra scenic when the leaves change. 

Camping at Spruce Knob

Spruce Knob Lake Campground is located down FS Road 112, about nine miles, and nestled in a stunning hardwood forest less than one mile from the lake.  The campground is not huge and fills up fast. If you plan on camping, make sure to make reservations well in advance. The campground is black bear country, so plan accordingly to make sure your site is bear-safe. When we stayed there, we were very impressed with the campground. The site was beautiful. Enjoy your trip!