Parsons to Stone Lake Run

Parsons to Stone Lake Run is an easy, scenic gravel route ideal for beginners, overland travelers, and scenic drivers looking to experience the lush forests and river valleys of West Virginia. Spanning approximately 4.3 miles, this trail runs from the town of Parsons toward Stone Lake Run, ultimately connecting down to the Bear Haven Campgrounds within the Otter Creek Wilderness area of the Monongahela National Forest. The route is a county-maintained gravel road that closely follows the scenic Cheat River, offering drivers beautiful views of massive rock overhangs and tight shelf roads winding through dense canopy. With a gentle elevation gain of about 388 feet and a maximum elevation reaching 1,850 feet, the drive is highly accessible and delivers spectacular vistas of the surrounding Appalachian landscape. With a technical difficulty rating of 2, this trail is suitable for most high-clearance vehicles, stock four-wheel-drive SUVs, and SxSs. While the road is fairly well-graded, travelers should remain alert for standard county road hazards such as potholes, washouts, and narrow sections with steep drop-offs that require careful passing. The route is best enjoyed from spring through autumn, when local foliage is vibrant and road conditions are generally dry, though winter weather can bring snow and ice to these shelf roads. Travelers can find full services including fuel, food, and lodging at either end of the route in Parsons or near Wymer, making this a highly convenient and rewarding day trip or gateway to rustic forest camping.