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Monongahela National Forest – Volunteer Vacations 2021

July 18, 2021 - July 24, 2021

Trip Navigation

Seneca Creek Backcountry offers something for everyone seeking adventure. This area boasts some of the best native trout fishing and backpacking loops that transport visitors through a diverse collection of ecosystems. Nearly 60 miles of trails wind through stands of red spruce, open meadows, and along fast-flowing mountain streams with elevations ranging from 3,000 feet to over 4,800 feet. Seneca Creek Trail is the main artery of this area and is a launching point for many backpackers. Judy Springs Trail is an important connector for hikers and backpackers looking to climb their way up to Spruce Knob, the highest point in West Virginia. As this trail cuts up the hillside through wildflower-filled meadows, it begins to erode and damage sensitive habitats that it traverses. Stabilizing the trail through additions of drainage and tread armoring will improve user experience and safety as well as improved protection of the meadow ecosystem.

CURRENT COVID TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS/REQUIREMENTS FOR STATE (Link)

Location

Monongahela National Forest
6263 Appalachian Highway, Davis, WV 26260 United States

Host

Hiking/Access

Backpacking 4 miles to basecamp (Day hiking up to 2 miles each work day)

Project Rating

Strenuous

Minimum Volunteer Age

18

Maximum Group Size

8

Area and Attractions

The Seneca Creek area offers hikers a vast backcountry to explore. Nearly 60 miles of trails wind through stands of red spruce, open meadows and along fast-flowing mountain streams. Beautiful hardwood species such as maple and cherry give way to cool spruce thickets up high. This area provides cool shade in the summer with many opportunities to see summer wildflowers, birds, and other wildlife. Most streams in the area including Seneca Creek offer ample opportunity for visitors to catch a glimpse at wild native brook trout in deep pools and fast-flowing riffles. There is history at every turn with trails that transport you along historic rail grades. Spruce Knob, the highest point in West Virginia will only be a hike away. Since this area is so wild and rugged it can take some time to get out to hit the town but with quaint little communities like Davis and Elkins that boast some of the state's best craft breweries, art galleries, and coffee shops, it is undoubtably a worthwhile trip.

Accommodations Description

Volunteers will camp in primitive tent sites along the Seneca Creek Trail. The trail offers plenty of large backcountry camping sites with fire rings. Given that this area is a popular destination there are plenty of sites located in close proximity that will allow the group to spread out and still have a central place to mingle. These sites are located right along Seneca Creek and other smaller streams that can offer a good water source that will still require filtration. We will provide camp stoves and fuel to anyone who doesn't prefer to use their own. Volunteers should bring their own tent, sleeping bag/sleeping pad, cup/bowl/mug/eating utensils, water filtration system, and personal gear. Volunteers will need to carry their personal gear and a portion of the food/tools/cooking gear to base camp.

Travel

No aiport pickup provided for this trip. The closest airport is Dulles International Airport. Meeting times will be sent to registrants when the trip is confirmed.
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