Submitted photo Guided elk management tours will offer unique opportunities to learn about West Virginia’s growing elk herd.

LOGAN — The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources announced dates for its 2026 elk management tours, which give visitors the chance to explore scenic areas of Logan County and learn about the state’s elk restoration program. The first tour will take place Saturday, Sept. 4, with tours continuing on weekends through Oct. 25.

“The elk tours have become one of our most popular wildlife experiences, and for good reason,” said WVDNR Director Brett McMillion. “They give people a front-row seat to see the results of our conservation work and to witness firsthand the beauty and resilience of West Virginia’s growing elk herd.”

These four-hour guided tours start and end at Chief Logan Lodge. Tours are offered in the morning, starting at 5:30 a.m. and in the evening starting at 4:30 p.m. Tickets are $30 each, and a boxed breakfast or lunch can be added for $15.

Participants should arrive at least 15 minutes before departure. Each tour is led by knowledgeable park staff, includes a short hike to a viewing area in the Tomblin Wildlife Management and offers opportunities to learn about the history, behavior and conservation of elk in West Virginia. While sightings are not guaranteed, visitors are often able to observe these animals in their natural habitat.

Overnight accommodations are available at Chief Logan Lodge and a special Elk Tour Package is available for guests who purchase a tour ticket, boxed meal and room. The package can be reserved online at WVstateparks.com using code ELK25 at checkout.

For tour availability, booking details and more information, visit WVdnr.gov/elk.

The WVDNR also announced that construction continues on a new visitor center and viewing tower at the Tomblin Wildlife Management Area and that the facility is expected to open later this fall.

The new facility will feature an observation tower with elevated and accessible viewing areas and exhibits that highlight the history of the WVDNR’s elk restoration project. It also has conference space, offices and amenities for visitors, researchers and staff.

The WVDNR launched its Elk Restoration Project in 2016 with the release of 24 elk acquired from the Land Between the Lakes. Since 2018, the WVDNR has introduced 95 elk (53 from Kentucky and 42 from Arizona) to the Tomblin WMA in Logan County. To learn more about the WVDNR’s elk restoration program, visit WVdnr.gov/elk.