Unforgettable Hiking Dolly Sods Wilderness Adventure
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Dolly Sods Wilderness is like stepping into another world. Known for its wild, almost otherworldly terrain, this place isn’t your typical hiking spot—it’s a slice of remote, untamed beauty that’s both challenging and rewarding. Whether you’re into epic views, unique rock formations, or just looking to get away from it all, Dolly Sods has got something to offer. Get ready to unplug, unwind, and really connect with nature in one of the most rugged and breathtaking landscapes on the East Coast.
Key Takeaways
Varied Terrain: Lion’s Head Loop has open meadows, forest and rocky sections. Expect diverse landscapes.
Water Crossings: Multiple water crossings along the trail. Waterproof boots recommended after heavy rain.
Bug Management: Bugs can be bad in some areas. A quick campfire can help.
Camping: Established campsites available. Each has its own features like proximity to water and wind shelter.
Weather: Weather can change fast in Dolly Sods. Bring gear for both dry and wet conditions.
Views: Lion’s Head has 270 degree views of the surrounding valleys. A must see for any hiker.
Wildlife and Flora: Wildflowers and ecosystem are beautiful. Some parts of the trail can be muddy.
Day 1: Lion’s Head Loop Trail Adventure
Dolly Sods Wilderness is a popular hiking destination in the Allegheny Mountains of eastern West Virginia. The area has over 17,000 acres of wilderness and many trails for all skill levels. The forest and meadows are home to black bears, deer and several species of birds. The weather was perfect for hiking, mild and sunny.
We walked through the meadows and forest and were struck by how beautiful it was. The scenery was stunning, hills, rocks and clear streams. We felt at peace and serene in the wilderness and thankful to be in such a wonderful and amazing place.
The Wooded Trail Surprise
We set out on the Dolly Sods hike expecting clear views on the Lion’s Head Loop Trail. While some parts of the trail did have great views, most of it was wooded. I was surprised at first but as we went along I grew to love the forest and its magic.
The landscape was divided into different sections, each with its own feel. Despite the dry conditions we still found some wet and muddy spots along the way. We were glad it was dry since Dolly Sods is notorious for being wet and muddy. We saw lots of wildflowers along the way that added to the beauty of the scenery. The tree canopy was still recovering from winter and wasn’t fully leafed out yet but it provided some shade and dappled light on the forest floor. There were areas where the bugs were bad but a quick fire would clear them out in an instant.
We found some firewood along the trail but the popular camping areas were already picked clean. Our first notable landmark was Red Creek which we crossed carefully using rocks to balance and not get our boots wet. The clear water flowed steadily and was a nice soundtrack to our hike. We stopped for a minute to enjoy the peace before moving on.
The loop trail had many water crossings where we had to step on rocks to get across. In heavy rain these crossings would be impassable until the water receded. As we climbed through the rhododendron tunnels we reached the junction with the Lion’s Head Trail which was the start of the loop. The terrain changed and the hike got tougher.
Camping for the Night
As the evening approached we started looking for a place to camp. Our requirements were simple - a flat area near water and wind protection. After some searching we found a great spot in a small grove of pine trees just off the trail.
One of the joys of this trail is the many established campsites, each with its own character. Some had fire pits, some had rock chairs for sitting around the fire, some had already processed firewood. Some were right on the water, some not. Some had major bug issues, some not. But all the campsites had their own charm and beauty and that’s what makes this trail so special.
Day 2: Blackbird Knob and Lion’s Head Loop
The next morning we rose early to beat the incoming storm and continue our Dolly Sods hike. The sun was shining and the meadows and forest were golden. The forest seemed to know a storm was coming.
Lion’s Head: A Dolly Sods Highlight
Lion’s Head is located in the Dolly Sods Wilderness of West Virginia, one of the most beautiful and rugged areas in the eastern US. The formation gets its name from its resemblance to a lion’s head with its jagged edges and size. The hike to Lion’s Head is tough with rocky and uneven terrain and requires careful navigation. But it’s worth it, the view from the top is stunning.
From the top you can see panoramic views of the wilderness, two valleys coming together to form a beautiful sight. Despite the rough terrain the Dolly Sods Wilderness has a wide variety of plant and animal life, black bears, wild turkeys and rare plants and flowers.
The area has a rich cultural history, Native American and early European settlements dating back to the 18th century. For hikers and nature lovers the Lion’s Head rock formation is a must see, a throne like seat to sit and take it all in.
The Finish
The Rocky Ridge Trail at Dolly Sods is a real test of your hiking skills and the views are killer. As we made our way down this rough trail we were dodging boulders and navigating through loose gravel. We kept a good pace and stopped every now and then not just to catch our breath but to really take in the views. As the trail turned to the sunny side of the mountain the scenery changed beautifully and we saw wildflowers and songbirds. As we were nearing the end of the hike we geared up for one final uphill but it turned out to be not so bad, just a few steep bits.
Final Thought
We got back on the Blackbird Knob Trail and headed back to the trailhead. As we finished up our Dolly Sods Wilderness hike we couldn’t help but think about all we had just experienced. The views, the ecosystems, the terrain of Dolly Sods had pushed us to our limits and given us an experience we’ll never forget. Even though we had to cut our trip short we left with a big appreciation for nature.
As we loaded up our gear in my jeep we felt a sense of accomplishment knowing we had done the Blackbird Knob and Lion’s Head Loop in one night.
If you want a tough but rewarding hike look no further than the Blackbird Knob and Lion’s Head Loop in the Dolly Sods Wilderness. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner looking to get your feet wet, this trail has something for everyone. Just make sure to bring waterproof boots and be prepared for any weather – as we learned even the soggy Dolly Sods can be dry sometimes.
FAQ
Q: How long is the Lion’s Head Loop Trail and what’s the elevation gain?
A: 15.73 miles and 1801 feet
Q: Are there many campsites along the trail?
A: Yes, many established campsites with varying amenities (wind protection, water sources, etc.)
Q: What do I do if I encounter heavy rain and flooding on the trail?
A: Have a plan and be prepared to wait it out. Water crossings can become impassable. Always check the weather forecast before you go.
Q: Is the trail for beginners?
A: While the trail is long and varied, it’s suitable for hikers with some experience. Beginners should be prepared and consider hiking with more experienced friends.
Q: What should I bring?
A: Waterproof hiking boots, water, snacks, map or GPS, first aid kit, bug spray. And layers for changing weather.
Q: What to do with wildlife?
A: Keep a distance, don’t feed, store food. Be aware of your environment and respect the habitat.