Canoeing:

Laurel Fork of the Cheat (Campground to U.S. 33)

Description:

This section of the Laurel Fork is rather unique in West Virginia. It is 16 miles of fast moving water to class I that flows through the Laurel Fork North Wilderness Area. The first 3/4 of this run is in the wilderness or backcountry of the Monongahala National Forest, with only the last few miles in a more pastoral setting. An overnight trip here would be a real treat. Although open canoes could manage this section, it should be considered an intermediate expeditionary trip due to the narrow channels, potential strainers (channel blockage) and the wilderness setting. This is a small river at this point, and only will be boatable during high water. The Parsons gauge will need to be 7+, while the Hendricks gauge around 4 or above. There is no gauge directly on the Laurel Fork. Trail Map (pdf) Brochure (pdf)

Directions:

The Laurel Fork River is located southeast of Elkins, WV. The put-in is at the Laurel Fork Campground. (See Google Maps below) The take-out is at the Rt. 33 bridge. Put-In: 38.741208, -79.690837 Take-Out: 38.884427, -79.599532

Activities:

Backpacking, Camping, Canoeing, Fishing, Hiking, Swimming Holes

Address:

Greenbrier Ranger District. Box 67, Bartow, WV 24920. On Rt 92/250 just east of Bartow

Phone/Email:

304-456-3335 (Voice & TDD), 304-636-1800 – Mon. National Forest

Web resources:

Laurel Fork Wilderness- Mon. National Forest page

Resources:

Books:

• “A Canoeing & Kayaking Guide to West Virginia”