5 Water-Based Itineraries in Pocahontas County 

​​With the headwaters of eight rivers, Pocahontas County, West Virginia, has earned the nickname “Birthplace of Rivers.” The Cherry, Cranberry, Elk, Greenbrier, Gauley, Tygart, Williams and Shavers Fork of the Cheat River all begin here. To help you experience these rivers, along with five lakes and countless streams, we’ve created five water-based itineraries to help build your next trip to Pocahontas County. 

Itinerary 1: A Relaxed Water Weekend

Something about being around water brings a sense of calm. For a laid-back weekend on the water, start by setting up camp at one of three campgrounds at Watoga State Park. 

For your first activity, paddle across the 11-acre Watoga Lake in a rented canoe, kayak or paddleboat. Then, stretch your legs on the 1.5-mile, mostly level Lake Trail, which circles the lake and offers peaceful views of the water. Back at the shore, spend some time fishing for largemouth bass, catfish, bluegill and trout. 

On day two, float down the Greenbrier River, which runs through Watoga. Stop by Jack Horner’s Corner or Appalachian Sport to rent a tube, kayak or canoe before heading out. The Greenbrier River winds through Pocahontas County and is one of West Virginia’s longest free-flowing rivers, making it a favorite for relaxing floats and fishing. 

After a day on the river, return to Watoga and spend the evening stargazing beneath some of the darkest skies in the region. Thanks to its remote location, Watoga is a designated International Dark Sky Park. 

Itinerary 2: Family Fun on the Water 

Splash around and spend quality time together during a family weekend in the mountains. Make Snowshoe Mountain Resort your base camp for all your water adventures. 

Start the day with a scenic chairlift down to Shavers Lake. Canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard across the 40-acre lake, take a swim and let the kids enjoy the lake inflatables. The area also features a sandy beachfront with chairs and umbrellas, a 200-foot dock, a playground, a restaurant and a disc golf course.

Afterward, take a hike on the 1.6-mile Shavers Lake Trail. This easy, family-friendly loop offers beautiful views of the lake and the Snowshoe Basin, with opportunities to spot wildlife along the shoreline. The trailhead is located to the right of the chairlift.

The next day, visit nearby Green Bank Observatory, home to the world’s largest steerable radio telescope, standing 485 feet tall. Join a guided tour for an overview of the grounds, take the behind-the-scenes High Tech Tour or explore at your own pace with a free self-guided walking tour. During the summer season, cool off with a swim in the observatory’s public pool. 

Wrap up your trip with an afternoon of fishing at the 22-acre Buffalo Lake near Bartow or the four-acre Seneca Lake in Seneca State Forest. Both lakes have healthy populations of trout, bass and bluegill. 

Itinerary 3: A Weekend in the Mon 

Explore the waterways of the Monongahela National Forest during a weekend getaway. Begin your trip with a drive along the Highland Scenic Highway, stopping at overlooks along the way. Then, head to the Tea Creek Campground off Williams River Road (Forest Road 86) to access the Williams River Trail. 

This easy, 2.7-mile trail follows the Williams River through spruce forests and open meadows. Bring your fishing gear and cast a line along the river, one of the county’s premier trout streams. In addition to rainbow, golden rainbow, brown and brook trout, the river is home to smallmouth and largemouth bass, catfish and sunfish. 

Extend your adventure with an overnight stay at Tea Creek Campground, then hike to Falls of Hills Creek the following day. A short, 0.75-mile hike leads to a trio of waterfalls measuring 20, 45 and 63 feet tall. The lowest of the three is the second-highest waterfall in West Virginia!

Itinerary 4: The Angler’s Getaway

Discover why Pocahontas County is a top fishing destination with an angler’s getaway. Spend a day along the Cranberry River, one of the top trout streams on the East Coast. It contains more trout per acre than any other waterway in West Virginia. 

The river is typically divided into two sections: the backcountry and the lower. The 16-mile backcountry portion is ideal for overnight remote fishing trips, while the lower section is easily accessible by vehicle. Add a stop at the Williams River to your fishing trip. For a quick, one-day outing, head to the middle section, accessible from the Highland Scenic Highway. 

If you’re new to the sport or looking to sharpen your skills, book a guided trip with Knapps Creek Trout Lodge or Elk River Touring Center. Local guides can help you learn the basics while introducing you to some of the county’s best spots. Complete your trip with an overnight stay at either location. 

Itinerary 5: A Trout Tour

Continue exploring the “Birthplace of Rivers” by tracking down Pocahontas County’s trout sculptures. Installed in 2021 to celebrate the county’s bicentennial, the eight six-foot-tall fiberglass trout pay tribute to the eight rivers that begin here. Each sculpture was designed and painted by a different artist and inspired by one of the county’s headwater rivers.

Find these colorful works of art throughout the county in Marlinton, Hillsboro, Green Bank, Durbin and Snowshoe. 

Plan Your Getaway

These itineraries are just the starting point! Request a free Adventure Guide to learn more about Pocahontas County and start planning your next trip. 

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