Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Dolly Sods Wilderness Area, part of the Monongahela National Forest, spans more than 17,000 acres in the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia. It is renowned for its diverse ecology, showcasing an open plateau with sweeping vistas, bogs, and heathlands more reminiscent of northern Canada than the surrounding region. The area offers a rich history, from early Native American utilization to logging in the late 19th century, and its remarkable recovery and preservation since designation as a wilderness area in 1975. Hiking is the principal activity here, with trails leading through varied terrain and landscapes. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot deer, bobcats, and the occasional black bear. Birdwatchers may delight in finding red-tailed hawks and peregrine falcons. Dolly Sods is particularly appealing in October when the fall foliage is at its peak, and the huckleberry bushes sport vibrant red hues.
