Seneca Rocks Discovery Center

The U.S. Forest Service Discovery Center sits directly at the base of Seneca Rocks, a quartzite fin rising nearly 900 feet above the North Fork River. From the parking lot — entrance off U.S. 33, just south of the US-33/WV-28 intersection — the full vertical face of the formation fills the skyline. Restrooms are available year-round at the center, and the grounds are open daily during daylight hours, making it a reliable stop in any season.

Inside, the center covers the geology, natural history, and climbing heritage of the area through interpretive exhibits. During the warm-season months, ranger-led interpretive programs run on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and traditional Appalachian crafters and artisans demonstrate their techniques on site. For riders who want to stretch their legs, the Seneca Rocks Hiking Trail starts right here, crosses Seneca Creek, and climbs via steps and switchbacks to an observation platform near the summit — a 1.3-mile one-way route that gains over 700 feet in elevation. The platform looks out over the surrounding North Fork river valley; the Forest Service cautions visitors not to venture beyond it without climbing gear. Fall, when the valley below turns, is a particularly good time to make that climb.