The Flatrock and Roaring Plains area provides many of the same highlights as the Dolly Sods Wilderness, such as windswept plains, barrens, bogs and berries, without the crowds. Flatrock Run Trail climbs 2,200 feet from Red Creek Valley to the Roaring Plains, climbing along Flat Rock Run through a dense forest to high plains. This trail is steep and recommended for the physically fit. Excellent berry-picking late summer to fall. On the high mountain plateaus, weather can change rapidly.
Storms can become severe, with fierce winds.
Hikers should be prepared. The forest is thick with beech, maples, and yellow poplars, providing habitat for bobcat, raccoons, wild turkey, white-tailed deer, and black bears. Numerous trails allow customizing your hike to various lengths and difficulty levels. The Laurel Fork is one one the most beautiful mountain streams in the East. Numerous connecting trails offer the opportunity to make your own hiking loop.