Moore Run Trail

The Monongahela National Forest’s Otter Creek Wilderness has many trails, mostly for hiking through the scenic landscape of rhododendron, timber and mosses. Biking is prohibited on the trails, but horses are allowed in some areas.

The trailhead for the 4-mile Moore Run Trail is marked simply with a posted sign along Forest Road 324. You may need to look closely for the trail itself, as the overgrowth of rhododendron around the trailhead can obscure it. However, once you find the trail near the creek bed, it is easy to follow the entire way.

The trail begins by following Moore Run (a creek) for about 2 miles. You will pass through two high mountain meadows and cross several small streams. After 2 miles, as the trail starts to steadily descend down McGowan Mountain toward Otter Creek, you will be treated to the sights and sounds of this remote region. Listen for the rushing rapids of Otter Creek far below. The view over the valley and of the mountains in the distance is breathtaking.

The trail terminates at the valley floor, where it meets two other rail-trails, the Otter Creek Trail and Possession Camp Trail. To reach both of these trails, you must cross the rather wide Otter Creek, so hike up your pant legs and plunge in—carefully!—if you plan to continue your trail adventure on the opposite shore.

Parking and Trail Access

To reach the Moore Run Trail from Parsons, take County Road 219 south, and stay left at the fork to continue on Brooklyn Heights Road. Turn right on Forest Road 701 and then continue on FR 324, heading south. The trailhead, though hard to spot, is on the left.

This is NOT a bike trail period!

July 2011 yotehunter7772

I hunt this trail it is NOT for bikes it is thick brush, rock slides, waste deep creek crossings, swampy patches VERY rough terrain to walk let alone ride a bike..As for hiking yes it is awesome for an experienced smart hiker..There are other trail heads that branch off from it, marked only with small rocks piled up about 3 high not marked well so try and stay on the MAIN trail at times that will be even hard to find make sure to sign in in case ya don't make it out so they will come find you..And maybe get a map of the otter creek wilderness trail system it is a VERY large wilderness area VERY VERY VERY easy place to get lost in if you venture off a trail even as little as 20 to 30 feet!!! But it is my favorite place to go to be alone, and you will be alone there if you do not have some one with you!!! Good luck :)