How to Look for the Mothman in West Virginia

Point Pleasant, West Virginia offers a unique chance to really explore the Mothman mystery. Reports say the Mothman is a winged, man-sized creature with large reflective red eyes. First seen in the area in 1966, the monster has spooked locals and visitors alike. A walk through the local wildlife area has even the bravest monster hunter looking over his shoulder. Get your gear, bring your bear spray and join the hunt for the Mothman.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Travel to Point Pleasant, West Virginia. The nearest major airport is in Charleston, West Virginia. Rent a vehicle to travel to Point Pleasant and begin to explore the legend of the Mothman.

2. Visit the Mothman Museum located at 411 Main Street to learn about the story as the locals tell it. They also have movie memorabilia from the various films that have tried to capture the terror of the beast.

3. Pick up a free sighting map at the museum and go for a driving tour along State Route 62, north of Point Pleasant. Several sightings of the Mothman and a car chase involving the monster took place along this stretch of highway. Your map points out the exact locations.

4. Visit the McClintic Wildlife Station known to the locals as the TNT. During World War II, the wildlife area was a top secret explosives manufacturing facility for the military. It is the location of several Mothman sightings.

5. Take a walk through the igloos in the TNT. The area is well-marked on your map. The igloos were storage units used by the military. They are covered with earth and the forest to conceal them from the air.

6. Camp in the designated campgrounds in the TNT. Stay up late, listen and watch for the Mothman. If camping in Mothman's lair seems a bit too nerve-racking, Point Pleasant offers many other comfortable accommodations.

7. Find the statue of the Mothman in the center of Point Pleasant near the museum and get your picture taken with the life-sized sculpture. Submit your picture to the photo gallery on the Mothman Lives website.

Tips & Warnings

• Stay at the Lowe Inn by the museum if you want a spooky night that doesn't involve camping. It is known for its ghostly happenings.
• Obey all signs and restrictions, the TNT has undergone cleanup related to hazardous waste.
• Don't trespass on private property. The TNT is open to the public but some igloos are privately owned.

[mad-shirts]

on 11/26/2008 Will bear spray work on the Mothman? Or should I bring bug spray? lol. Cool article. Maybe I'll head that way some day!