Cranberry Mountain Nature Center


Area Status: Open
A display of taxidermy animals features local wildlife to the area.

The Cranberry Mountain Nature Center is fun for visitors of all ages and backgrounds, and includes an exhibit hall, auditorium, events and programs. The center also features a native plant garden, a nature trail, and many activities for children. Be sure to walk the interpretive trail on the grounds. Signs point out tree species and give facts on the many uses of the trees. At the overlook enjoy a picnic lunch and the view of Stamping Creek, just down the mountain, to the mountains of Virginia in the distance.

At a Glance

Current Conditions: Open Thursdays thru Mondays, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Operational Hours: Thursdays through Mondays (closed Tuesdays/Wednesdays), 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through the open season.
Open Season: Mid-April - mid-October
Closest Towns: Hillsboro, WV (7 miles to the east); Richwood, WV (22 miles to the west); Marlinton, WV (16 miles to the east)  
Water: Drinking fountain.
Restroom: Full-service restrooms.
Operated By: Forest Service

General Information

Directions:

Located at the junction of Route 150 and Route 39/55, 16 miles from Marlinton and 22 miles from Richwood.


General Notes:

Contact Information

For information on the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center, its events, programs or other information, contact the Nature Center at (304) 653-4826 during operating hours.

For information outside of normal business hours, call the Gauley Ranger District office.

Additional Area Information

For information about all the exciting opportunities in the local area, check out the Pocahontas County Convention and Visitors Bureau. Also check out the Richwood Area Chamber of Commerce for activities in nearby Nicholas County.


Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Day Hiking

Cranberry Mountain Nature Center Interpretive Trail: Loop 1, 800 feet; Loop 2, 2202 feet; Cowpasture Trail, 7 miles; Bruffy Reserve Trail; Pocahontas Trail. Maps and water available during hours of operation at Cranberry Mountain Nature Center.

Viewing Wildlife

Bird feeders, hummingbird feeders and native wildflower garden provide views of many species of birds, including ruby-throated hummingbird, purple finch, house finch, goldfinch and red crossbill.

Viewing Plants

Native pollinator wildflower garden features 16 varieties of plants that attract butterflies, hummingbirds and bees.

Viewing Scenery

Cranberry Mountain Nature Center features views of the Highland Scenic Highway from the picture window, interpretive wildflower garden and nature trail.

Visitor Centers

Outdoor programs and tours are scheduled throughout the year. See Upcoming Events.

Picnicking

Ten picnic tables are scattered throughout the nature center area, along the nature trail, with views of the Highland Scenic Highway.