Maps, Directions, & FAQ (Getting Here)

Don’t always trust your GPS…

Half the beauty of Pocahontas County, West Virginia, is getting here. No matter which route you take, breathtaking mountain vistas await around every bend, and the scenic two-lane roads leading you in are dotted with quaint mountain towns.

While the journey here is sure to leave you speechless, it’s important to prepare ahead of time with pre-downloaded directions or suggested routes — otherwise, the trip could turn from stunning to stressful.

Many visitors assume the limited GPS and cell phone service is simply due to Pocahontas County’s rural location, but the real reason goes much deeper.

Pocahontas County is located within the National Radio Quiet Zone, a 13,000-square-mile area protected from electromagnetic interference. That means limited WiFi and spotty cell service across much of the region, including towns like Green Bank, Cass, Durbin and even Snowshoe Mountain Resort.

While the opportunity to unplug can be refreshing, we know staying connected matters too. That’s why our local businesses and lodging partners work hard to provide WiFi and internet access. You’ll also find service at our countywide visitor centers and most libraries, with the town of Cass and Snowshoe Mountain Resort offering wireless internet throughout their areas.

If you’re traveling via Route 219 South, you’ll have reliable cell service in Lewisburg and surrounding towns, and you’ll carry it for quite a while, right up until just before you cross into the county. AT&T users will have intermittent service along Route 219 in and around Hillsboro and Marlinton.

We have knowledgeable staff who will be more than happy to give you specific driving directions to the area and suggested routes, as well as information on places to access WiFi, cell or Internet service. Just call us at 304-799-4636. 

Locations Where WiFi and/or Cell Phone Service Can Be Accessed:

Cranberry Mountain Nature Center: Intersection of Route 39/55 and WV-150, Hillsboro, West Virginia 24946
Marlinton Visitor Center: 301 8th Street, Marlinton, West Virginia 24954
Snowshoe Mountain Resort Visitor Center: Center of Village, 10 Snowshoe Drive, Snowshoe, West Virginia 26209
Cass Scenic Railroad State Park Visitor Center: Historic Post Office building, 12363 Cass Road, Cass, West Virginia 24927
Durbin Visitor Center: Along Main Street, in the Pocahontas Art Co-op, Durbin, West Virginia, 26264

WiFi can be accessed at any of the Pocahontas County Libraries & Visitor Centers: 

McClintic Library: 500 8th Street, Marlinton, West Virginia 24954
Hillsboro Public Library: 54 3rd Street, Hillsboro, West Virginia 24946
Linwood Community Library: 72 Snowshoe Drive, Slatyfork, West Virginia 26291
Green Bank Public Library: 5683 Potomac Highlands Trail, Green Bank, West Virginia 24944 (computers available; WiFi not available)
Durbin Community Library: 4715 Staunton Parkersburg Turnpike, Durbin, West Virginia 26264 

You can access WiFi in the Snowshoe Mountain Resort Village and the town of Cass. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the Pocahontas County Convention Visitors Bureau (PCCVB)? 

The Pocahontas County Convention & Visitors Bureau (PCCVB) is an independent, nonprofit corporation dedicated to marketing and promoting Pocahontas County, West Virginia, as a destination for leisure and group travel. It provides tourism-related services to visitors, residents, and tourism partners, and educates the public on the benefits of tourism and tourism-based economic activity.

There are six satellite visitor centers in Pocahontas County to check out: 

• Marlinton – Pocahontas County Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Cranberry Mountain Nature Center – Near Cranberry Glades Botanical Area
• Cass Visitors Center – Historic Post Office Building
• Durbin Visitor Center – Pocahontas Art Center on Main Street
• Green Bank Visitors Center – Green Bank Observatory Science Center
• Snowshoe Mountain Resort Visitors Center – Linwood Library

All Pocahontas County Library locations also provide Visitor Center services and information:

• Marlinton – McClintic Public Library
• Hillsboro Public Library
• Durbin Community Library
• Green Bank Public Library

Link to our About Section

• What is the Snowshoe Highlands Area Recreation Collaborative (SHARC)?

A partner to the Pocahontas County Convention Visitors Bureau, the Snowshoe Highlands Area Recreation Collaborative (SHARC) is composed of partners, organizations, agencies and stakeholders who manage a variety of assets and services throughout the Snowshoe Highlands region, spanning beyond Pocahontas County lines into neighboring Randolph, Nicholas and Webster counties. SHARC works to support outdoor recreation management, development and stewardship through thoughtful and organic collaboration. SHARC is focused on sustainable maintenance and development that spans across public and private land and impacts countless communities.  

Link to more information on SHARC

• What are the popular events and festivals in Pocahontas County?

Pocahontas County hosts events and festivals throughout the year that celebrate Appalachian heritage, outdoor recreation, music, agriculture, and community traditions. Some of the county’s most popular annual events include: 

• Maple Days Festival – the third Saturday in Feb. & March
• Pioneer Days – the second full weekend in July 
• Cass Days – the third weekend in June
• Autumn Harvest Festival/Roadkill Cook-off – the last Saturday in Sept.
• Huntersville Traditions Days – the first full weekend in Oct.
• Little Levels Heritage Fair – the last weekend in June
• Great Greenbrier River Race – last Saturday in April
• Greenbrier River Trail Marathon – the first Saturday in October
• Cranberry Shindig – the last Sunday in September
• Hammons Family Fiddle & Banjo Contest – the weekend of Autumn Harvest Festival/Roadkill Cook-Off
• Durbin Days – the third weekend in July
• Pocahontas County Opera House performances
• Seasonal events at Snowshoe Mountain Resort 

* Event dates may vary each year, so be sure to check our Events Calendar before your visit!

• What should I pack for my trip to Pocahontas County?

Packing often depends on the season, and West Virginia weather can change quickly, even during summer months. We recommend packing comfortable layers, sturdy walking or hiking shoes, a rain jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle as the basics. Winter visitors should pack warm clothing, waterproof boots, gloves, hats, and other snow gear, as low temperatures can be present, especially on Snowshoe Mountain.  

If you plan to enjoy the outdoor recreation opportunities Pocahontas County has to offer, but happen to forget any activity-specific equipment you may need, we’ve got your back! Visit our Outfitters and Rentals page for more information.

• Why is Pocahontas County known as the “Birthplace of Rivers”?

Pocahontas County is known as the “Birthplace of Rivers” because eight river systems begin within its mountain landscapes. These include the Greenbrier, Elk, Gauley, Cherry, Cranberry, Williams, Tygart Valley, and Shavers Fork rivers.

These headwaters provide exceptional opportunities for fishing, paddling, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor recreation while supporting ecosystems throughout West Virginia and beyond.

• Can I ride ATVs in Pocahontas County?

Yes, ATV riding is available in portions of Pocahontas County, but only on designated trails and properties where it is permitted. Riders should always respect private property, follow posted regulations, and verify trail access before their trip. 

Off-road tours are available at Snowshoe Mountain Resort 

• Where are the best hiking/biking trails in Pocahontas County?

With hundreds of miles of trails, Pocahontas County offers some of the best hiking,  mountain, and leisure biking in West Virginia. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll to a waterfall, a scenic boardwalk through a unique ecosystem, or miles of rugged backcountry trails, you’ll find an adventure for every skill level. 

Link to Hiking

Link to Mountain Biking

Link to Leisure Biking

• Where are the best fishing spots in Pocahontas County?

Pocahontas County is home to many miles of pristine streams and rivers, making it a premier destination for fishing. From stocked waters to remote streams, there are fishing opportunities for beginners and experts alike throughout the county. 

WV fishing licenses are required and can be purchased at Appalachian Sport in Marlinton or by visiting the WVDNR website

Link to Fishing

• Where can I stay?

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, Pocahontas County offers accommodations for every style of traveler. Choose from cozy cabins, vacation rentals, hotels, mountain lodges, bed-and-breakfasts, campgrounds, RV parks, and full-service resorts throughout the county. 

Link to Lodging 

• Where can I eat? 

From local cafes and family restaurants to breweries, bakeries, and fine dining, Pocahontas County offers a variety of dining experiences. Whether you’re grabbing breakfast before hitting the trails or enjoying dinner after a day of adventure, you’ll find plenty of delicious options throughout the county. 

Link to Restaurants & Dining 

• What is the train schedule? 

Mountain Rail West Virginia offers scenic train excursions departing from Cass and Durbin throughout the year. Excursion schedules vary by season and destination.

Link to Train Schedules

• Are there art-related activities to do in Pocahontas County?

Yes! 

Check out the Handmade WV Market in Marlinton to shop for art, crafts, and food products sourced primarily from Pocahontas County locals, alongside more than 80 vendors from across West Virginia. 

There’s also the 4th Avenue Gallery in Marlinton, featuring artwork from the members of the Pocahontas County Artisan Co-op. The Co-op has a second location, the Shops at Leatherbank Ford in Cass. Each art location within the county is reflective of our culture and traditions. You can find items pertaining to woodworking, pottery, basket weaving, quilting, photography, jewelry, and more. 

Beyond this, the areas across Pocahontas County feature a total of 7 murals and 8 trout statues that tell the story of our culture and celebrate our title as the “Birthplace of Rivers”.

Link to Murals

For more details on this topic, visit our Where To Find Local Art in Pocahontas County page

• Is Pocahontas County family-friendly?

Yes! 

Families will find activities for all ages throughout the county. Some ideas include riding the Cass Scenic Railroad, exploring waterfalls such as the Falls of Hills Creek, hiking easy nature trails such as the Greenbrier River Trail, visiting the Green Bank Observatory, discovering the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center, and enjoying swimming, fishing, miniature golf, and family-friendly events at Snowshoe Mountain Resort.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or educational experiences, Pocahontas County is a great destination for making lasting family memories.

• Where can I stop for souvenirs?

Visitors can find unique souvenirs throughout the county, including locally made crafts, artwork, specialty foods, apparel, outdoor gear, books, and gifts. 

Link to Shopping 

• What should I know about trail, aquatic, and wildlife safety?

Before heading outdoors, always check the weather forecast and let someone know your plans. Stay on marked trails, carry plenty of water, wear appropriate footwear, and pack a map or GPS device, especially in remote areas.

When enjoying rivers and streams, remember that water levels can rise quickly after rainfall. Wear a life jacket when boating or paddling.

Wildlife such as black bears, deer, snakes, and other native animals can be seen throughout the county. Observe wildlife from a safe distance, never feed wild animals, and store food securely while camping.

Practicing Leave No Trace principles helps protect our forests, rivers, and wildlife for future visitors.

• Is cell phone service available throughout the county? 

As mentioned above, cell phone service is available in many towns and along major highways, but coverage can be limited or unavailable in remote mountain areas, deep valleys, and portions of the Monongahela National Forest.

Before heading into backcountry areas, download maps, directions, and important information ahead of time. Travelers should not rely solely on cell service for navigation or emergency communication while exploring remote areas.

Visitors are encouraged to text “Join 911alerts” to 31002 to receive local emergency alerts and notifications. Visit this page for more details: PC 

911 Non-emergency Number: 304-799-4567