Dolly Sods Wilderness is a high-altitude plateau situated within the Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia. This wilderness area features unique ecosystems, including heath barrens, sphagnum bogs, and stunted red spruce, creating a landscape reminiscent of sub-arctic tundra. The terrain offers sweeping vistas, distinctive rock formations, and diverse forests, making it suitable for several outdoor sports like hiking. Elevations range from 2,500 to over 4,700 feet, contributing to its distinct climate and varied natural features.
25
Routes
3.9
(7)
Average rating
117
People visited

1.0
(1)
13
hikers
7.23km
02:01
110m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(1)
10
hikers
9.20km
02:32
140m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5
hikers
31.4km
08:41
530m
560m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

9
hikers
5.91km
01:51
330m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Dolly Sods Wilderness offers opportunities for hiking and jogging. The area has 39 routes, with 38 dedicated to hiking and 1 for jogging. These routes have an average rating of 4.1 stars from over 400 visitors.
Dolly Sods Wilderness is characterized by high-altitude plateaus, heath barrens, and sphagnum bogs. Notable features include wind-flagged red spruce trees, unique rock formations, and the reddish-tinted Red Creek. Viewpoints like Lion's Head Rock, Rocky Knob, and Rohrbaugh Cliffs offer expansive vistas.
Yes, Dolly Sods Wilderness offers routes suitable for beginners and those seeking less strenuous options. Information on these can be found in guides such as Easy hikes in Dolly Sods Wilderness. These trails provide access to the unique landscapes without extreme difficulty.
Dolly Sods Wilderness features trails that can be rocky, rooty, muddy, and boggy, requiring preparation for technical terrain. The extensive trail system, including multi-day backpacking options, offers rewarding experiences for advanced hikers. Many routes follow old railroad grades and logging roads.
Yes, Dolly Sods Wilderness is a popular destination for backpacking due to its true wilderness landscape. The area offers opportunities for multi-day adventures with numerous backcountry campsites. Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles.
The terrain in Dolly Sods Wilderness ranges from high-altitude plateaus with elevations between 2,500 and over 4,700 feet. It includes open heath barrens, sphagnum bogs, and dense forests. Trails can be rugged, featuring rocky sections, roots, and muddy or boggy areas.
Dolly Sods Wilderness is generally dog-friendly, but specific regulations may apply. It is advisable to keep dogs on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a positive experience for all visitors. Always check the latest guidelines from the Monongahela National Forest.
Dolly Sods Wilderness is a popular destination on komoot, with over 400 visitors having shared their experiences. The 39 available routes, primarily for hiking, have an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars. This indicates a high level of satisfaction among users.
Komoot offers several guides for Dolly Sods Wilderness to help plan your visit. These include Hiking in Dolly Sods Wilderness and Easy hikes in Dolly Sods Wilderness. These guides provide detailed information on routes and experiences.
The official website for Dolly Sods Wilderness is part of the Monongahela National Forest website. It can be found at fs.usda.gov/recarea/mnf/recarea/?recid=12367. This site provides official information and updates regarding the wilderness area.
The general phone number for the Monongahela National Forest, which oversees Dolly Sods Wilderness, is +1-304-257-4488. This number can be used for inquiries regarding the wilderness area and its regulations.
Backcountry camping is permitted in Dolly Sods Wilderness, and generally, no permits are required for dispersed camping. However, visitors must adhere to Leave No Trace principles and any specific regulations set by the Monongahela National Forest. Always check current guidelines before your trip.

