West of the intense folds of the Ridge and Valley Province is the High Plateau., which acts as a transition zone between the severely squeezed rocks to the east and the flatter rocks to the west.

The rocks here are only slightly folded. Instead of long, straight ridges, the terrain is more irregular and generally higher in elevation than the land around it.

This region is clearly separated from the Ridge and Valley by a distinct steep slope called the Allegheny Front.

The High Plateau includes the beautiful Potomac Highlands, much of which is covered by the Monongahela National Forest. It's a popular place for outdoor recreation such as skiing, canoeing, and hiking.

Historically, this was timber country, and wood is still an important product. The land also supports a strong tradition of livestock grazing because the area has limestone (good for soil) and a cool, wet climate.