Bear Rocks Preserve: Explore a Celebrated Appalachian Treasure

In the 19th and 2oth century, the rugged and beautiful land where Bear Rocks Preserve now stands was the site of unchecked logging and cattle grazing. Over time, a mighty red spruce and hemlock forest diminished until only a few scrawny red spruce trees remained.

Thankfully, conservationists in West Virginia recognized the splendor of Bear Rocks Preserve and worked to protect and rehabilitate the land. Today, Bear Rocks Preserve is one of West Virginia’s most celebrated travel destinations. Stunning rock formations, vibrant azalea blooms, and sweeping views of misty mountains offer endless opportunities to hike, observe wildlife such as golden eagles, and take breathtaking photos of one of Appalachia’s most iconic landscapes.

Bear Rocks Preserve is a wilderness area that is steadily being reclaimed by nature, so there are no official marked trails or picnic areas. Travelers have formed primitive trails that you can follow if you’re feeling adventurous. Make sure to wear long pants, solid hiking shoes, and long socks if you’re planning on exploring the terrain. Chances are you’ll be walking though some tall grass. Packing food and water is also highly recommended since Bear Rocks Preserve doesn’t have any amenities.

The stacked boulders of Bear Rocks Preserve are one of the area’s main attraction. Visitors can climb atop windswept sandstone rocks that resemble the sun-bleached vertebrae of a long deceased dragon. Several of the rocks offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The boulders of the Bear Rocks Preserve are an excellent spot for a picnic or a snack.

Bear Rocks Preserve can be difficult to access during the winter when heavy snowfall covers the surrounding roads. Late April through early October is the best time to visit Bear Rocks Preserve. In the spring, visitors can view bright blankets of wildflowers in full bloom. In the fall, technicolor orange, red, and gold leaves put on quite a show.

Bear Rocks Preserve is adjacent to the Dolly Sods Wilderness Area which features over 47 miles of trails. Even though Bear Rocks Preserve and the Dolly Sods Wilderness Area have steadily gained popularity, West Virginia’s striking wilderness does not attract large crowds.

Travelers who yearn to escape to a gorgeous stretch of nature where the human footprint has rapidly diminished instead of grown should certainly consider spending a day or two exploring Bear Rocks Preserve and the Dolly Sods Wilderness Area. West Virginia‘s rustic beauty will leave you yearning to explore every inch of the ever-evolving landscape.