Local attractions

Spruce Knob is located in the Monongahela National Forest, near Elkins, West Virginia. In addition to gorgeous scenery, the area supplies activities and attractions for the entire family.

Birding

Avid birders will find plenty to look for in the area. Check out the Seneca Rocks Audubon Society list of recent sightings and the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge Birding Opportunities page, so you can get working on that life list.

Caving

AHSP participants will have an opportunity to accompany a Mountain Institute guide on a short hike to local caves. Other nearby cave systems include Seneca Caverns and Smoke Hole Caverns.

Fishing

Spruce Knob lake is regularly stocked with trout by the Virginia Department of Natural Resources. Campsites are available.

Hiking

There's plenty of hiking around Spruce Knob itself, and other nearby trails include Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Blackwater Falls State Park, the Otter Creek Wilderness area, and the 80-mile Greenbrier River Trail.

Mountain biking

Mountain bikes are encouraged and are a fun way to get around the Almost Heaven Star Party. Serious mountain bikers may be interested in the Spruce Knob trail (difficult), the Seneca Creek loop (easy), the Bother Ridge Trail (moderate), or the Greenbrier River Trail (easy).

Rafting & canoeing

Get outfitted for white water adventures and river trips at Blackwater Outdoor Adventures or Cheat River Outfitters.

Rock climbing

Seneca Rocks is a striking quartzite formation rising 900 feet above the North Fork River. Popular with experienced rock climbers, there is also a 1.3-mile hiking trail to a viewing platform for non-climbers. A visitor's center at the base of the formation provides cultural and geologic history for the area. Seneca Rocks is only about a 20-minute drive from the Almost Heaven Star Party.

Trains

Take a historic steam train ride with the Cass Scenic Railroad or the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad.