Highlight • Viewpoint
Bickle Knob is a prominent mountain summit and viewpoint located in Randolph County, West Virginia, just east of the city of Elkins. Standing at approximately 1,220 meters (4,000 feet) in the Allegheny Mountains, it offers expansive vistas over the surrounding Monongahela National Forest. Its most distinctive feature is an observation tower, a modern replacement of an original fire tower, providing visitors with unparalleled panoramic views.
What truly captivates visitors to Bickle Knob are the breathtaking 360-degree views from the observation…
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Otter Creek Wildlife Management Area
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Elevation 1,200 m
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Wednesday 1 April
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The walk to the observation tower from the parking area is very short and easy, typically less than five minutes. It's considered suitable for beginners and most visitors. The main challenge might be the gravel roads leading to the parking area, rather than the walk itself.
While the observation tower is a short walk from the parking lot, Bickle Knob is part of the larger Monongahela National Forest. Nearby, you can find trails like the 3.7-mile Middle Point Trail #140 in the Otter Creek Wilderness, offering more extensive hiking opportunities beyond the immediate viewpoint.
Yes, Bickle Knob is very family-friendly. The short, easy walk to the observation tower makes it accessible for children of most ages. The panoramic views and the historical tower itself can be an engaging experience for families looking for an outdoor outing.
Generally, dogs are welcome in the Monongahela National Forest, including areas like Bickle Knob, as long as they are kept on a leash. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and clean up after your pet to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
Access to Bickle Knob is via Forest Road 91A, a spur off Stuart Memorial Drive (Forest Road 91). Both are gravel roads. During warmer months, they are generally passable for most regular cars. However, conditions can vary, especially after heavy rain or during winter, so checking local road reports is advisable.
Bickle Knob is a popular local gem, so it can experience higher visitor numbers on weekends, holidays, and during peak fall foliage season. To avoid crowds and ensure parking, arriving earlier in the morning or visiting on weekdays is recommended.
For the most spectacular and expansive views, visit on a clear day with low humidity. Overcast or foggy conditions can significantly obscure the panoramic vistas. Checking the local weather forecast before your trip is highly recommended.
Bickle Knob is a relatively undeveloped natural site within the Monongahela National Forest. There are no dedicated restrooms or extensive picnic facilities directly at the observation tower. Visitors should plan accordingly and pack out everything they pack in.
Beyond Bickle Knob, the surrounding Monongahela National Forest offers numerous natural attractions. The nearby Otter Creek Wilderness provides additional opportunities for exploration, and the area is known for its diverse flora, fauna, and unique limestone geology. Elkins, a short drive away, also serves as a gateway to other regional attractions.
The Bickle Knob observation tower has a rich history, originally built in 1933 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. It served as a crucial fire lookout tower for the U.S. Forest Service. Today, it's one of the few remaining observation towers in the Monongahela National Forest, connecting visitors to early forest conservation efforts.