This scenic area will be managed to feature an undisturbed condition for study and enjoyment by the public. Maintaining the natural appearance of the area is essential.

Approximately 50 acres of the Gaudineer Scenic Area is typical of, and considered part of, the virgin red spruce type that originally occupied large portions of the highland areas of West Virginia. The composition of this impressive timber stand consists of virgin and second growth red spruce, yellow birch, beech, red maple, sugar maple and other hardwood species. Individual trees range up to 40 inches in diameter at breast height and 300 years of age. The remaining 90 acres has had some cutting, mainly salvage of blow-down, with most of the original growth still standing. The total wood volume of the 140 acre tract is estimated at one and a half million board feet.

LOCATION

The 140 acre Gaudineer Scenic Area is located near Gaudineer Knob of Shavers Mountain in Randolph and Pocahontas Counties. The area is located about 5.5 miles from Durbin, West Virginia. To reach the area travel west from Durbin on US 250 for 4 miles to Forest Service Road 27, then north on Forest Service Road 27 for 1.5 miles to the area. The Scenic Area is in the headwaters of Glade Run and Old Road Run, tributaries of Shavers Fork of Cheat River and West Fork of Greenbrier River, respectively.

HISTORY In October 1964 the Regional Forester designated this area as a Scenic Area so that it could be managed for its special values for public study, use, and enjoyment. In May 1981 the Gaudineer Scenic Area was designated a Registered Natural Landmark for its exceptional value as an illustration of the Nation's natural heritage and its contribution to a better understanding of man's environment. In May 1983 the Scenic Area was registered by the Society of American Foresters as an outstanding example of a vegetative community in a near natural condition dedicated for scientific and educational purposes.

PRESENT SITUATION AND SAFETY

Management of this area to a near natural stage and encouraging visitors to enjoy it presents a safety concern. The abundance of dying mature red spruce and dying, diseased American beech can be considered a natural stage in a constantly changing environment. This, however, increases the chances of visitors being injured by falling limbs or trees. For safety reasons, avoid using the area when the wind is blowing the tree tops.

For more information contact the Greenbrier Ranger District at (304) 456-3335.