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ForestMatters, LLC

Otter Creek Wilderness Loop

Monongahela National Forest, West Virginia · 3 min read

Distance
8 mi
Elevation Gain
1,000 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Loop
Best Season
May through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
6 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • 20,000-acre wilderness one of the largest in any eastern national forest
  • Remote creek corridor with minimal trail maintenance
  • Old-growth hemlock and hardwood character in portions of the creek valley
  • Consistent solitude even in summer
  • Good backcountry fishing for native brook trout

Overview

The Otter Creek Wilderness Loop covers 8 miles through one of the most genuinely remote areas in Monongahela National Forest. At 20,000 acres, Otter Creek is among the largest designated wilderness areas in any eastern national forest, and its scale translates to a trail experience that feels far more backcountry than most eastern hiking. No roads, minimal trail maintenance, and a creek corridor with portions of old-growth hemlock that survived the early 1900s logging combine to create an atmosphere unusual for West Virginia.

The trail gains 1,000 feet over 8 miles significant by eastern standards, though modest compared to western mountain trails. The elevation is concentrated in two ridge crossings that bookend the creek valley section. Between these crossings, the trail follows Otter Creek through a narrow valley where the hemlock canopy closes in and the sound of water over rocks fills the air.

The creek holds native brook trout the stream is not stocked and is managed for wild fish. Catching trout from a wilderness stream in old-growth hemlock forest is an experience increasingly rare in the eastern United States, and the combination draws both hikers and anglers from the DC and Pittsburgh metro areas.

The Route

Miles 0 to 1.5: From the Forest Road 91 trailhead, the loop climbs over the first ridge the steepest section of the hike before descending into the Otter Creek valley. The descent is steep and rocky on the valley side.

Miles 1.5 to 5: The trail follows Otter Creek upstream through the wilderness interior. This is the heart of the loop: hemlock-shaded creek walking with several crossings of the creek itself. The crossings can be knee-deep in spring. Old-growth hemlock is particularly concentrated between miles 2 and 4. Several good campsites are located in this section.

Miles 5 to 6.5: The trail climbs over the second ridge crossing, gaining most of the remaining elevation gain before the descent to the trailhead.

Miles 6.5 to 8: The final section descends to Forest Road 91 and the trailhead.

When to Visit

May through October is the main hiking season. June offers good conditions before summer humidity builds. September and October bring cooler temperatures and fall color in the hardwood portions of the ridge. Spring (April-May) creek crossings can be challenging with high water. Check conditions before early season visits.

Weather in the wilderness can be severe. Afternoon thunderstorms in summer require planning early starts. Carry rain gear and layers regardless of forecast.

What to Bring

  • Many hikers carry 2 liters. Creek water is available throughout with treatment. Individual needs vary.
  • Waterproof boots or quick-drying footwear for creek crossings
  • A map and compass or GPS: the trail is lightly blazed
  • Warm layer and rain jacket
  • Bear hang kit or bear canister for overnight trips see bear canister requirements
  • A West Virginia fishing license if planning to fish

Practical Details

No facilities at the trailhead. No fee (as of 2026). Wilderness regulations apply: no mechanized equipment. Dispersed camping permitted, 200 feet from water. Follow Leave No Trace principles. See the national forest camping guide for general dispersed camping rules.

Getting There

From Parsons, West Virginia, take State Highway 72 east approximately 4 miles to Forest Road 91. Turn south on FR-91 and follow it approximately 3 miles to the Otter Creek trailhead parking area. Parsons is in Tucker County on US-219, approximately 20 miles north of Elkins. GPS coordinates are approximately 38.78°N, 79.65°W.

Trailhead Parking

Otter Creek Wilderness trailhead on Forest Road 91 near Parsons, West Virginia. Small gravel lot.

← Back to Monongahela National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Otter Creek Wilderness unusual for an eastern forest?
At 20,000 acres, Otter Creek is large for an eastern designated wilderness. Some sections of the creek corridor contain old-growth hemlock that escaped the early 1900s logging, giving the valley a cathedral character rare in the East.
Is Otter Creek good for brook trout fishing?
Otter Creek is a native brook trout stream managed for wild fish. The upper sections of the creek within the wilderness are particularly good. A West Virginia fishing license is required.
How remote does this trail feel?
The wilderness character is genuine. There are no roads within the wilderness boundary, maintenance is minimal, and the trail sees relatively little traffic. Backcountry navigation skills and experience are helpful.
Is this loop appropriate for backpacking?
Yes. The length and remote character make it an excellent backpacking loop. Dispersed camping is permitted throughout the wilderness. Water is available from the creek.