Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.head.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53]
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.head.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53]
Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.root.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54]
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54]
Renick, WV
Change City

Cranberry Backcountry

Highland Scenic Highway
Renick, WV 24946

In the Cranberry Backcountry, this 18.9 mile circuit hike traverses a ridge of old growth forest, and follows the banks of Cranberry River. Early October, when the leaves change color, is probably the prettiest time to take this backpack. The valley explodes in oranges, reds, and yellows. From the parking area start up the blue blazed Kennison Mountain Trail, and in 0.4 miles arrive at the intersection of the South Fork Trail. Continue straight on the Kennison Mount Trail as it climbs the ridge before reaching the junction of the Frosty Gap Trail in another 0.6 miles. Turn right, staying on the Kennison Mount Trail, and in 3.7 miles cross Forestry Road (FR) 738A. Continue along the blue blazed Kennison Mountain Trail another 1.0 miles where the the trail crosses FR 738B. Turn right on FR 738B for 20 yards, then left uphill on the initially wider continuation of the Kennison Mount Trail. The trail will head uphill for another 0.4 miles before passing around the summit of Kennison Mountain. The Kennison trail makes a very steep descent in the last 0.5 miles before reaching Cranberry River. Ford Cranberry River, then head 100 yards upstream to the first of many superb campsites. If this site is taken, it's only a short walk to the shelter and next camp site. Head upstream on the non-blazed Cranberry River service road passing the Birchlog Trail, Tumbling Rock Trail and Shelter, North Fork Shelter (stay right where the North Fork Trail splits left), and South Fork Shelter where Cranberry River passes under the service road. From this point, Cranberry River will be on the left and out of view. In another 2.1 miles, the service road arrives at the intersection of the Cow Pasture Trail on the left, and South Prong Trail on the right. Turn right uphill on the blue blazed South Prong Trail as it climbs towards the Kennison Mountain Ridge. In 1.0 miles the trail will make a switchback to the right, then turn back to the left, and becoming steeper for the remaining 0.8 miles to the ridge, and junction of the Kennison Mountain Trail. Turn left on the Kennison Mountain Trail, and in 0.4 miles arrive back at the parking area.
Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors.
Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide
Upcoming AARP Events

AARP Events for Renick

View All AARP Events

image of two AARP membership cards
Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal
  • Immediate access to your member benefits
  • Discounts on travel and everyday savings
  • Subscription to AARP The Magazine
  • FREE second membership
Join AARP
Already a member? Renew or Print Card
Facebook

Contact AARP
West Virginia

Facebook icon   Twitter icon
Return to top 
Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]
Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]
Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]