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

Cass, WV

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park

See Description

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
Marlinton, WV

Watoga State Park

See Description

Make your visit in Pocahontas County memorable as you spend the night in an orginial CCC built log cabin. Located just 14 miles south of Marlinton, the park offers 10 modern cabins with heat and air conditioning open year-round. There are also 24 standard cabins open the last wee…

Pet Friendly
Handicap Accessible

Make your visit in Pocahontas County memorable as you spend the night in an orginial CCC built log cabin. Located just 14 miles south of Marlinton, the park offers 10 modern cabins with heat and air conditioning open year-round. There are also 24 standard cabins open the last wee…

Pet Friendly
Handicap Accessible
Marlinton, WV

Greenbrier River Trail State Park

See Description

As you take on the 78 mile Greenbrier River Trail State Park, enjoy plenty of camping shelters and spaces to pitch a tent for that overnight trip. Restrooms and water at each campsite.   …

Pet Friendly
Mountain Bike Friendly

As you take on the 78 mile Greenbrier River Trail State Park, enjoy plenty of camping shelters and spaces to pitch a tent for that overnight trip. Restrooms and water at each campsite.   …

Pet Friendly
Mountain Bike Friendly
Hillsboro, WV

Falls of Hills Creek

See Description

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
Marlinton, WV

Highland Scenic Highway

See Description

The Highland Scenic Highway is one of the most treasured features of the Monongahela National Forest. Spanning 22.5 miles along Route 150, and 20.5 miles along Route 39, the National Scenic Byway offers stunning views of the cascading Alleghany Highlands, endless miles of hiking …

Pet Friendly
Mountain Bike Friendly
Handicap Accessible

The Highland Scenic Highway is one of the most treasured features of the Monongahela National Forest. Spanning 22.5 miles along Route 150, and 20.5 miles along Route 39, the National Scenic Byway offers stunning views of the cascading Alleghany Highlands, endless miles of hiking …

Pet Friendly
Mountain Bike Friendly
Handicap Accessible
Load More
View All