Cranberry Glades Botanical Area
Explore West Virginia's largest peat bog via a boardwalk, home to rare carnivorous plants and diverse birdlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best for wildlife viewing
Cranberry Glades Botanical Area
Best Time
Best for wildlife viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore West Virginia's largest peat bog via a boardwalk, home to rare carnivorous plants and diverse birdlife.
"A unique and beautiful bog environment with a variety of interesting species. "
⚠️ Slippery Boardwalk Alert
Boards get very slick when wet. Use extreme caution or skip if recently rained. :athletic_shoe:
🚶♀️ Short & Sweet Walk
The main loop is about a mile, perfect for a quick nature break. :walking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bog Boardwalk Loop
Main boardwalk trail
Wander through unique peat bogs on an accessible boardwalk, spotting rare plants and wildlife.
Carnivorous Plants
Along the boardwalk
Discover fascinating pitcher plants and other unique flora adapted to the bog environment.
Birdwatching Opportunities
Throughout the glades
A haven for birdwatchers, especially warblers, making it a prime spot for avian enthusiasts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Boardwalk Caution
Best for Short Strolls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⚠️ Slippery Boardwalk Alert
Boards get very slick when wet. Use extreme caution or skip if recently rained. :athletic_shoe:
🚶♀️ Short & Sweet Walk
The main loop is about a mile, perfect for a quick nature break. :walking:
🐍 Wildlife Encounters
Be aware of snakes and ticks, especially in warmer months. :snake:
ℹ️ Informative Signage
Learn about the unique ecosystem from signs along the boardwalk. :memo:
Tips
from all over the internet
⚠️ Slippery Boardwalk Alert
Boards get very slick when wet. Use extreme caution or skip if recently rained. :athletic_shoe:
🚶♀️ Short & Sweet Walk
The main loop is about a mile, perfect for a quick nature break. :walking:
🐍 Wildlife Encounters
Be aware of snakes and ticks, especially in warmer months. :snake:
ℹ️ Informative Signage
Learn about the unique ecosystem from signs along the boardwalk. :memo:
🚗 Limited Parking
Parking lot is small (approx. 12 spaces). Arrive early during peak season. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Cranberry Glades for its unique bog ecosystem and the accessible boardwalk trail, offering a refreshing nature break. However, many caution about the extreme slipperiness of the boardwalk when wet, posing a hazard for some. The limited parking and lack of extensive amenities are also noted.
"There is a one mile loop on the boardwalk.
Parking area will accommodate 12 spaces.
Picnic table is close by. No fee required. They have signs along the way. Bathroom
Is at the parking lot."
Eugenia Ziegler
"Chose this as our destination for the day and what a beautiful stop it was. Nice little walk around the bog on a boardwalk. It's a great place to stop and stretch the legs without being a long hike."
Shawn Hardman
"Very well marked and very interesting. Basically a peat bog at 3400 feet. Am hour is enough unless you’re looking to find specific species to photo. Many warblers are here."
Stewart
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cranberry Glades is located in the Monongahela National Forest, accessible via the Highland Scenic Highway (WV-39). It's situated between Richwood and Marlinton. 
Yes, it's well-marked along the Highland Scenic Highway. Look for signs directing you to the botanical area and its parking lot.
The Highland Scenic Highway offers beautiful views, making the drive itself part of the experience.
Yes, it's near other Monongahela National Forest attractions like the Falls of Hills Creek Trail and Beartown State Park.
Cell service can be spotty in this remote area, so download any necessary maps or information beforehand.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No fee is required to enter the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area. It's a free natural attraction.
As a natural area within the national forest, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times.
There is no entrance fee for Cranberry Glades Botanical Area.
While accessible year-round, winter conditions can make access difficult and the boardwalk may be hazardous. Spring through fall are the most popular times.
No special permits are required for general visitation to the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The primary trail is a one-mile loop boardwalk that winds through the unique peat bog ecosystem.
The boardwalk is generally flat but can be narrow in places. There are no railings, and it can be very slippery when wet, posing challenges for strollers and those needing support.
Most visitors spend about an hour to explore the boardwalk and read the informational signs.
Yes, there are restrooms located at the parking lot.
Dogs are allowed on leash, but be mindful of the slippery boardwalk conditions and other visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique bog landscape, the boardwalk winding through the flora, and the diverse plant life, including pitcher plants.
Yes, it's a great spot for birdwatching and potentially spotting other small wildlife. Early mornings are best.
Early morning or late afternoon light can offer beautiful, soft lighting for your shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Forest areas to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check specific regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the landscape, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
Birdwatchers will find it particularly rewarding, with numerous warbler species frequenting the area, especially in spring and summer. 🚗 Road Trippers
It offers a refreshing break with a short, engaging walk that doesn't take up too much time on a longer road trip. +1 The limited parking means it's best visited earlier in the day or on weekdays to avoid potential waits.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Ecosystem of Cranberry Glades
Visitors can explore this delicate habitat via a well-maintained boardwalk, which minimizes impact on the fragile bog. Along the boardwalk, you'll find informational signs detailing the glades' ecology, including the presence of carnivorous plants like the pitcher plant, which supplements its nutrient intake by trapping insects.
It's crucial to remember that this is a sensitive environment. Staying on the boardwalk is essential to protect the bog's integrity. Be aware of potential wildlife encounters, such as snakes and ticks, and take necessary precautions.
Navigating the Boardwalk and Accessibility
A significant point of caution highlighted by visitors is that the boardwalk can become extremely slippery, especially after rain. Several reviewers have mentioned difficulty navigating the wet surfaces, with some unable to proceed far. If visiting after a shower, extreme care is advised, or it may be best to postpone the walk.
While the boardwalk provides access, it's not fully accessible for all. The lack of resting spots and handrails means visitors need to be able to walk independently for the duration of the loop. Despite these challenges, the boardwalk offers a unique opportunity to experience a rare natural environment up close.
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