By:
Submission
This scenic area is managed to feature an undisturbed condition of the West Virginia highlands for study and enjoyment. Maintaining the natural appearance of the area is an essential management goal here.
Approximately 50 acres of the Gaudineer Scenic Area is typical of, and considered part of, the virgin red spruce type that originally occupied large portions of the highland areas of West Virginia. The composition of this impressive timber stand consists of virgin and second growth red spruce, yellow birch, beech, red maple, sugar maple and other hardwood species. Individual trees range up to 40 inches in diameter at breast height and 300 years of age.
While the remaining 90 acres has had some cutting, mainly salvage of blow-down, most of the original growth still is standing. The total wood volume of the 140 acre tract is estimated at one and a half million board feet.
Easy drive to the parking area. Easy walk to the overlook. Overall wonderful experience.
This stand of trees, interspersed with "virgin" spruce and birch is underwhelming, at first glance. However, if you make the hike on the 1/2 mile loop, you will soon realize the incredible height of many of these trees. The deeper you get into this stand of trees it becomes evident how massive they are. Very worth the time and drive.
Beautiful stop to stretch your legs on a quarter mile loop trail, but more importantly, to stretch your imagination and your soul. Bring a bite to eat, stay and sit still among the moss.
The scenic trail is most definitely worth the drive. The loop itself is only a 1/4 mile. All flat terrain, with a WV scenic view halfway through. There is a lot of oxygen in this forrest , I find it relaxed breathing.
This and the Gaudineer Knob trail, that you come to first as you're driving up the gravel country road, are both great ways to connect with nature and learn something about how older trees die and regenerate themselves. Definitely something to stop and experience for yourself.
