Gaudineer Scenic Area

This scenic area is managed to feature an undisturbed condition of the West Virginia highlands for study and enjoyment. Maintaining the natural appearance of the area is an essential management goal here.

Approximately 50 acres of the Gaudineer Scenic Area is typical of, and considered part of, the virgin red spruce type that originally occupied large portions of the highland areas of West Virginia. The composition of this impressive timber stand consists of virgin and second growth red spruce, yellow birch, beech, red maple, sugar maple and other hardwood species. Individual trees range up to 40 inches in diameter at breast height and 300 years of age.

While the remaining 90 acres has had some cutting, mainly salvage of blow-down, most of the original growth still is standing. The total wood volume of the 140 acre tract is estimated at one and a half million board feet.

At a Glance

Operational Hours:	Open year-round.
Closest Towns:	Durbin, WV
Restroom:	Vault toilet available.
Operated By:	Forest Service
Information Center:	Greenbrier Ranger Station

General Information

Directions:

From Durbin, travel west on US 250 for 4 miles to Forest Service Road 27, then north on Forest Service Road 27 for 1.5 miles to the area. The Scenic Area is in the headwaters of Glade Run and Old Road Run, tributaries of Shavers Fork of Cheat River and West Fork of Greenbrier River, respectively.

The 140 acre Gaudineer Scenic Area is located near Gaudineer Knob of Shavers Mountain in Randolph and Pocahontas Counties. The area is located about 5.5 miles from Durbin, West Virginia.

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Day Hiking

Located in the Scenic Area are the Allegheny Trail #701 and the Gaudineer Interpretive Trail. They offer a glimpse of the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Also close by is The West Fork Trail #312 which runs along Shaver’s Fork River.

Viewing Scenery

In October 1964 the Regional Forester designated this area as a Scenic area. Full article....

Picnicking

The Gaudineer Picnic Area is located within the Scenic Area. It offers 6 sites including a table and grill with waste receptacles located within the parking area.