River winds through a valley with forested hills under a blue sky. Mist hangs in the valley.

A Guide to Smoke Hole Canyon: What to See and Do

Smoke Hole Canyon has a colorful past, with its name reportedly stemming from both the Native Americans and later, the moonshiners that once inhabited the area. According to some accounts, the smoke rising from the rocks from multiple fires led settlers to give the canyon its name. Other stories claim the mist that gathers along the river is actually the source. Regardless of the origin, however, there is no doubt that Smoke Hole Canyon is one of the most beautiful spots in West Virginia. 


Located not far from Seneca Rocks, Smoke Hole is home to a variety of things to do. Activities include hiking, fishing, tubing, hunting, and climbing. No matter what brings you to Smoke Hole Canyon, you’re sure to find a day of fun and adventure. 

Man fly-fishing in a clear, rocky stream surrounded by green trees on a sunny day.

Fishing

Smoke Hole Canyon, carved by the South Branch of the Potomac River, is a dream fishing destination. The canyon stretches for roughly 20–25 miles between US‑220 and Petersburg, offering anglers access to both trout and bass in a stunning wilderness setting. It’s regularly stocked with rainbow and golden trout, while native brown, brook, fallfish, sunfish, and both smallmouth and largemouth bass thrive in the clear, cool flow. 


A popular catch-and-release trout zone begins near Route 220 and extends downstream to Big Bend Recreation Area, stocked intensively from March through May and again in October. Whether casting from shore or drifting in a canoe, the mix of stocked and native fish, combined with quiet forest ambiance, makes Smoke Hole Canyon a truly unique angling experience. 


Note that a state fishing license with a national forest stamp is required.

Paddling and Tubing

Paddling through Smoke Hole Canyon on the South Branch of the Potomac River is an unforgettable adventure. The gorge offers a varied water experience, from gentle Class I–II riffles to exhilarating Class III rapids. Canoeists and kayakers who enter below the 220 bridge can expect continuous whitewater that tests intermediate skills. Those starting downstream enjoy a more relaxed float with periodic fun waves, especially near Big Bend Campground. 


Tubing is equally popular and ideal for a laid‑back summer day. The “Big Bend” section loops around a peninsula of Big Bend Campground, offering a mile‑long lazy float perfect for cooling off in the heat. Set‑ups are easy: put-in and take‑out points near campgrounds like Welton Park and Shreve’s Store ensure convenient parking and shuttle access. 

Hikers walking on stone steps through a mountain valley; three people with backpacks.

Hiking

Smoke Hole Canyon offers some of the most rewarding hiking in the Monongahela National Forest. The South Branch Trail is a 3.5‑mile loop starting at a picnic area and ending at the riverside near Shreve’s Store. This trail is perfect for seeing wildlife, exploring limestone caves, and taking in the lush greenery. Families and novice hikers will enjoy the manageable grade and rich scenery packed within just a few miles.


For more ambitious trekkers, the North Fork Mountain Trail along the canyon’s western rim delivers breathtaking panoramas and a solid physical challenge. Stretching around 24 miles, this medium‑difficulty hike features about 3,600 ft of elevation gain and multiple trailheads.


A popular out-and-back route takes hikers to Chimney Top, a sandstone overlook reached via a 5‑mile round trip with 2,178 ft of gain. It offers sweeping views of the canyon and the distant ridgelines of the North Fork valley. This trail reveals the region’s geological wonders and the canyon’s rugged, remote character.

Smoke Hole Canyon offers a quiet, rugged alternative to the more well-known climbing spots in West Virginia, like nearby Seneca Rocks. The canyon features a mix of traditional and sport routes, with varying degrees of difficulty that appeal to both intermediate and experienced climbers. The routes are often less trafficked, providing a more secluded and intimate climbing experience in a dramatically scenic setting. 


One of the highlights of climbing in Smoke Hole Canyon is the sense of exploration it offers. The area's climbing community is small but dedicated, and while guidebooks are limited, online forums and local advice can point you to quality lines. As with any backcountry area, climbers should come prepared with the right gear, topographic maps, and a solid understanding of outdoor ethics.

Climbing

Person with arms raised on a mountain peak, overlooking a cloud-filled valley and snowy mountain range at sunrise.

Hunting

Hunting in Smoke Hole Canyon offers an immersive experience. Open to big game, small game, and game birds, this area attracts hunters seeking deer, wild turkey, grouse, squirrel, rabbit, and even occasional black bears. Regardless of what you’re hunting, the blend of remote canyon terrain and managed forest land provides a rewarding challenge. 



With clear regulations set by West Virginia DNR and managed through the Forest Service, hunters must secure the appropriate state licenses, adhere to designated season dates, comply with bag limits, and follow ethical practices, including using proper firearms, archery equipment, or shotguns, depending on the species.

Stay at Mama Tried RV & Campground

Mama Tried RV & Campground, your home-away-from-home, is here to provide you with all the amenities you need after a day of exploring Smoke Hole Canyon. Our RV and tent sites are just a quick walk to the river and also give you access to our basketball court. We offer you the chance to relax and unwind in beautiful Cabins, WV, just a short drive from Seneca Rocks.


Whether you’re here for a night or for a longer stay, we welcome you! Book your reservation today!