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- Spruce Knob
4,863 ft · Allegheny Mountains, West Virginia
Spruce Knob
Spruce Knob is a 4,863 ft peak in the Allegheny Mountains, West Virginia. The standard route is the Whispering Sprunce Trail: 0.6 mi, 26 ft of gain, Class 1.
Spruce Knob at a glance
- Elevation4,863 ft1,482 m
- RouteWhispering Sprunce TrailClass 1
- Distance0.6 mi26 ft gain
- Time20 – 40 minWalk-up effort
- SeasonMay – Oct
- RangeAllegheny MountainsWest Virginia
Climbing the Whispering Sprunce Trail
From Riverton, West Virginia, take Route 28/29 south to Forest Road 112 and follow signs to Spruce Knob Recreation Area. A short paved path leads to the observation tower at the summit. Cool, windy conditions are common even in summer due to the exposed location. The surrounding spruce forest creates a unique northern ecosystem. Roads may be rough after storms. Nice visitor facilities and restrooms at the trailhead. Multiple trail options for longer hikes in the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area. West Virginia's highest peak with great views.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (15–25 L)
Water
First-Aid Kit
Offline Maps
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Trail Shoes
Midlayer
Sun Hat
Buff
GPS Device
What to watch for
- High winds
- Low visibility
- Cold summit conditions
- Storms
- Rapid weather shifts
Quests with Spruce Knob
50 State HighpointsFrequently asked questions
How tall is Spruce Knob?
Spruce Knob is 4,863 feet (1,482 m) tall. It is in the Allegheny Mountains, West Virginia.
Is Spruce Knob the highest point in West Virginia?
Yes. At 4,863 feet, Spruce Knob is the highest point in West Virginia.
How hard is it to hike Spruce Knob?
The Whispering Sprunce Trail is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates it a walk-up: 0.6 miles with 26 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Spruce Knob?
Most people take 20 – 40 minutes round trip on the Whispering Sprunce Trail, covering 0.6 miles with 26 feet of elevation gain.
Can a beginner hike Spruce Knob?
Most people can. It is a short walk of 0.6 miles with 26 feet of elevation gain, about 20 – 40 minutes round trip.
When is the best time to hike Spruce Knob?
The usual hiking window is May to October. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Spruce Knob with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list