From bald eagles, to golden-winged warblers and Baltimore orioles.

With five state parks, two state forests and the Monongahela National Forest, there’s no shortage of trails and overlooks to spot some of our many unique species. West Virginia’s elevation, sparse human population and vast public lands, make the ideal habitat for birds to nest. Whether you’re a seasoned birder, or just looking to get started in the sport, Pocahontas County, West Virginia is the perfect place to learn more and see more of these interesting migrants.

With five state parks, two state forests and the Monongahela National Forest, there’s no shortage of trails and overlooks to spot some of our many unique species. 

Birds are among the easiest wildlife to locate and study because they are relatively easy to find. Many are colorful or have songs which alert you to where they might be settled on a tree branch. Some travel in large groups, are active during the day and can be studied from a reasonable distance, sometimes even without binoculars.

If you’ve forgotten your field guide or your binoculars, don’t worry, the Pocahontas County Free Libraries will be glad to loan you books, binoculars, GPS units or fishing poles while you’re here. Just go to the Marlinton Library to rent equipment you may need on your birding ventures.

Whether you are looking for an elusive Olive-sided Flycatcher or beginning your discovery into birding, Pocahontas County is an excellent place to discover the unexpected.

Links

Brooks Bird Club
WVDNR Birding Information
Birdwatchers Digest
U.S. Forest Service: Birds and Bird Watching


Bird Watching in Pocahontas County

Hillsboro, WV

Beartown State Park

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Roam the boardwalk at Beartown State Park and stand in awe of the ancient and magnificent rock formations that surround you. Made of one large rock formation that splits into sections and clefts large enough for walkways, Beartown State Park is noted for its massive boulders, …

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Roam the boardwalk at Beartown State Park and stand in awe of the ancient and magnificent rock formations that surround you. Made of one large rock formation that splits into sections and clefts large enough for walkways, Beartown State Park is noted for its massive boulders, …

Pet Friendly
Cass, WV

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park

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Cass Scenic Railroad State Park now offers bike rentals. Whether you’re looking to bike around the historic logging town, hit the Greenbrier River Trail State Park, or take your wheels up Route 66 to ride the Snowshoe Highlands Silver Designated IMBA Ride Center, Cass Scenic Rail…

Pet Friendly
Mountain Bike Friendly
Handicap Accessible

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park now offers bike rentals. Whether you’re looking to bike around the historic logging town, hit the Greenbrier River Trail State Park, or take your wheels up Route 66 to ride the Snowshoe Highlands Silver Designated IMBA Ride Center, Cass Scenic Rail…

Pet Friendly
Mountain Bike Friendly
Handicap Accessible
Hillsboro, WV

Cranberry Glades Botanical Area

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The Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, located in the Monongahela National Forest, protects the largest area of bogs in West Virginia. Bogs are acidic wetlands more commonly found in the northern areas of this country and in Canada. The ground in a bog is spongy and consists largel…

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The Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, located in the Monongahela National Forest, protects the largest area of bogs in West Virginia. Bogs are acidic wetlands more commonly found in the northern areas of this country and in Canada. The ground in a bog is spongy and consists largel…

Pet Friendly
Hillsboro, WV

Cranberry Mountain Nature Center

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Perched on the edge of Cranberry Mountain at the southern end of Rt 150/Highland Scenic Highway,  the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center is one of the Monongahela National Forest two visitors centers.   Operated by the USDA Forest Service, the Nature Center features live program…

Handicap Accessible

Perched on the edge of Cranberry Mountain at the southern end of Rt 150/Highland Scenic Highway,  the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center is one of the Monongahela National Forest two visitors centers.   Operated by the USDA Forest Service, the Nature Center features live program…

Handicap Accessible
Hillsboro, WV

Falls of Hills Creek

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A series of three falls that cascade 20 feet, 45 feet, and the third falling 65 feet, making this waterfall one of the highest in West Virginia. The Falls of Hills Creek is the glittering jewel in the crown of the Monongahela National Forest. The 114 acre area sits just south …

Pet Friendly
Handicap Accessible

A series of three falls that cascade 20 feet, 45 feet, and the third falling 65 feet, making this waterfall one of the highest in West Virginia. The Falls of Hills Creek is the glittering jewel in the crown of the Monongahela National Forest. The 114 acre area sits just south …

Pet Friendly
Handicap Accessible
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