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25 Most Beautiful West Virginia Mountains

Last Updated By VI on April 7, 2024 in Things to Do in West Virginia & Places to Visit This post may contain affiliate links. Affiliate Disclosure

Seneca Rocks

Spruce knob, bear rocks, west virginia, red spruce knob, wv.

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If summiting Seneca Rocks seems too much like hard work, you can enjoy the remarkable views and scenery by hiking the moderately easy Seneca Rocks Trail to the base of the needle. There is a good visitors center and campground nearby. More places to visit in West Virginia

Camping enthusiasts can set up camp at Seneca Shadows Campground or Big Ben Camp Ground to spend a few days exploring the area.

You can expect to see plenty of unusual flora and fauna along the route, while several established and backcountry campsites dot the trails.

The close proximity of the Highland Scenic Highway means that you have very easy access to hike or climb Red Spruce Knob, one of the highest peaks of the Allegheny Mountains in West Virginia. The Red Spruce Knob trails will lead hikers though some very attractive wooded scenery, which is home to many bird varieties as well as to the endangered Virginia flying squirrel. You can hike the trail all year round and in winter you can try some forest skiing. Visitors who would like to spend a few days in the area can set up camp at the Tea Creek or Day Run campsites or try some primitive backcountry camping.

Bickle Knob, West Virginia

Bickle Knob is yet another of West Virginia’s many 4,000+ foot peaks, which occupies a tall ridge overlooking the Otter Creek Wilderness in the Monongahela National Forest. Good news for non-hikers is that you can access the peak by road along Forest Service Road (91A) and then take a short walk up to the observation tower, which was once used as a fire look-out point. If you prefer to hike you can set off along the 5.2-mile Middle Point Trail. Hikers who prefer a more challenging day out can choose between several other Otter Creek Wilderness trails that require a bit of route-finding skills. The entire area is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and there are several options for camping, including RV campsites and primitive backcountry camping opportunities.

Rose Benchmark, WV

Rose Benchmark marks the highest spot in Braxton County, West Virginia, topping out at 2,183 feet, which gives it the distinction of being the 28th highest point in the state and puts it on the radar of all the West Virginia Peak Chasers. Unfortunately, the area is a hive of activity due to the number of encroaching oil/gas wells, which means that it is not a particularly attractive area to go hiking. If you happen to want to add Rose Benchmark to the list of peaks you have conquered, you can easily access the highpoint by car along Crites Mountain Road, close to the small town of Birch River. Once you have bagged your peak, you can visit nearby Summersville Lake for camping, hiking, and boating activities .

WV Mountains: Cheat Mountain

Fifty miles long and over 5 miles wide at places, Cheat Mountain is an extremely high and rugged mountain in the eastern part of West Virginia. Until the logging industry stripped the mountain of its splendid forests, Cheat Mountain supported the largest red spruce forest south of Maine, but by 1960 it had been largely stripped bare. In 1960, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park was established to protect the area and re-forestation has been an ongoing project. Today you can take the scenic railway all the way to Bald Knob at the top of Cheat Mountain to admire the impressive views from the summit. Hikers can explore along the Cheat Mountain Ridge Trail, which is also good for snowshoeing in winter.

Back Allegheny Mountain

Running almost parallel to the massive Cheat Mountain, the Back Allegheny Mountain is also a very large mountain whose summit at Bald Knob reaches an elevation of 4,843 feet above sea level. Protected by the Monongahela National Forest, Back Allegheny Mountain lies in an environmentally sensitive area of large red spruce forests that are home to a wide variety of birds and wildlife. A short (but very steep) half-mile hike along the Bald Knob Trail will take you to the summit (for one of the best spots in West Virginia to watch a mountain sunset). Five miles south of Bald Knob you can go skiing at the Snowshoe Ski Resort, and the greater Monongahela National Forest offers a very wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, climbing, fishing, camping, and much more. More Romantic Weekend Getaways in WV

West Virginia Mountains: Mount Port Crayon

Mount Port Crayon is the sixth-highest peak in West Virginia, located in the Roaring Plains Wilderness of the Monongahela National Forest. Peak Chasers will need plenty of determination to summit Mount Port Crayon, which is one of the most inaccessible highpoints in the state. To reach the summit, you need to negotiate a very steep 5-mile trail that includes long stretches of pure off-trail bushwhacking. It is a great challenge for experienced hikers/scramblers, but should not be attempted by novices. Less experienced hikers, walkers, and bird watchers will find a variety of easier scenic trails in the greater Monongahela National Forest.

North Fork Mountain

North Fork Mountain is located in the “High Alleghenies” of eastern West Virginia. North Fork’s highest peak is Kile Knob at 4,588 feet, and there are a further three lofty peaks, Panther Knob, Chimney Top, and Pike Knob, which are nearly as high and will interest all the Peak Chasers out there. The 24-mile North Fork Mountain Trail is widely acknowledged to be one of the most scenic high-elevation trails in the state, and worthy of a place on any hiking enthusiast’s wish-list. The views in all directions are pretty amazing as you make your way to the various highpoints, and the trail is also suitable for energetic mountain bikers, trail runners, and backcountry campers.

Allegheny Mountain

Allegheny Mountain is one of the best-known mountain ridges in the Allegheny Mountain Range, which forms part of the Appalachian Mountains on the Virginia/West Virginia state line. You will find no less than 14 peaks along this ridge, the tallest of which is Paddy Knob at 4,477 feet. A large part of the surrounding area is called the Paddy Knob Special Biological Area, and is home to many rare and/or endangered bird species, such as the bald eagle and mourning warbler. The area is remote and undeveloped – a paradise for hikers and wildlife watchers who enjoy solitude. The challenging Paddy Knob Trail, which climbs over 2,300 feet, will take you to the highest point on the ridge, while less adventurous hikers can find many easier trails in the nearby Monongahela National Forest.

Shavers Mountain

Shavers Mountain is another of West Virginia’s towering mountain ridges in the Allegheny Range in eastern West Virginia. Shavers Mountain is really special as it lies between exceptionally scenic natural wilderness areas – the Otter Creek Wilderness and the Gaudineer Scenic Area, both of which offer outdoor enthusiasts a wide range of hiking trails. The highest point on Shavers Mountain is Gaudineer Knob (4,460 feet), which is accessible by car along Forest Service Road 27A; there is a picnic site and toilets at the summit. Hikers can explore many very scenic trails in the area, including the High Falls Trail, while campers can pitch their tent at Shavers Fork Campground or enjoy trail-side backcountry camping.

Shenandoah Mountain

Running for 73 miles along the border of Virginia and West Virginia in the George Washington National Forest, Shenandoah Mountain forms the eastern-most part of the Allegheny Mountain Range. Shenandoah Mountain has three notable peaks, namely Reddish Knob (4,387 feet), Flagpole Knob (4,383 feet), and Bald Knob (3,680 feet), all of which beckon ardent Peak Baggers, while the entire area is very popular for hiking, mountain biking, trail running, and camping. You can reach the summit of Reddish Knob by mountain bike along an asphalt road or hike to the peak for amazing 360-degree views of the Shenandoah Valley . There are many campsites in the valley and a multitude of hiking trails, including a section of the famous Appalachian Trail.

Backbone Mountain

Backbone Mountain is located in the central Appalachian Mountain Range, running 39 miles from West Virginia to Maryland, where the peak of the mountain at Hoye-Crest (3,360 feet) is the highest spot in Maryland. On the West Virginia side of the mountain you will find the beautiful Blackwater Falls State Park, which offers hikers and mountain bikers an extensive network of trails along which you can explore Backbone Mountain. You can rent a cabin or pitch your tent at the campground and spend a few days enjoying a wide variety of outdoor activities, including nature walks, bird-watching, hiking, biking, fishing, and ranger-led interpretive programs for all ages.

Castle Mountain

Castle Mountain is an elevated ridge running between the north and south branches of the Potomac River in Pendleton County, West Virginia, just over 7 miles from Spruce Knob, which is the highest peak in West Virginia. Castle Mountain reaches a very respectable elevation of 3,410 feet and a hike to the summit will reward you with extensive views of the surrounding landscape and Spruce Knob to the north. To thoroughly explore this beautiful forested mountain area, you can set up camp at Seneca Shadows Campground or Big Ben Campground and spend some quality time enjoying nature in the heart of the West Virginia Appalachians.

Great North Mountain

Located west of the famous Shenandoah Valley and east of the Allegheny Mountains, the Great North Mountain forms a 50-mile border between Virginia and West Virginia. Part of Great North Mountain falls within the beautiful George Washington National Forest, which offers outdoor enthusiasts a veritable playground in which to enjoy hiking, mountain biking, hunting, and wildlife watching. You can explore an extensive network of trails, including part of the Tuscarora/Blue Ridge Trail, the Seven Springs Trail, and several others that lead to the impressive Big Schloss peak. Campers will find several free campsites along the trails and backcountry camping is also available.

Laurel Mountain

Forming part of the Allegheny Mountains, Laurel Mountain (or Laurel Hill) is a meandering 32-mile ridge that runs between the Cheat River and the Tygart River Valley in the Ridge-and-Valley region of West Virginia. Outdoor enthusiasts who prefer solitude will be pleased to know that the Laurel Fork North and South Wilderness areas are both relatively lightly trafficked and are perfectly suited to backpacking and backcountry camping. The area offers over 19 miles of trails to explore and you can enjoy beautiful scenery, swimming holes, fishing, and bird-watching along the route. If you happen to be a West Virginia Peak Bagger, you can add the Elliot Benchmark peak (3,157 feet) to your list of conquests.

New Creek Mountain

New Creek Mountain is another of West Virginia’s long mountain ridges that are part of the Ridge-and-Valley Appalachian range. New Creek Mountain reaches an elevation of 3,084 feet and beckons hikers and scramblers to come and explore both Saddle Mountain (a saddle-shaped depression in the ridge that is best viewed from the nearby town of Skyline) and the very impressive New Creek Mountain Cliffs. If you are not up for taking on the challenge of hiking up to the rims of the very steep triangular gorge at New Creek Mountain Cliffs, you can take a scenic drive along the paved country road that follows the banks of Patterson Creek.

South Branch Mountain

Located in the Nathaniel Mountain Wildlife Management Area of West Virginia, South Branch Mountain is one of the most prominent ridges in this mountainous area. The highest point along the ridge rises to 3,028 feet above sea level, and you can explore the area by means of a scenic drive along the Northwestern Turnpike in the Sunrise Summit Area. The Wildlife Management Area is heavily wooded and offers a network of interesting hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife watching, hunting, trout fishing, swimming, kayaking, and camping. Part of the famous Appalachian National Scenic Trail is located to the east of South Branch Mountain if you are looking for a more challenging hiking experience.

Big Schloss

Named by German settlers for its resemblance to a castle, Big Schloss is a prominent rocky peak in the Great North Mountain range of the Appalachians. The mountain is located right on the border between Virginia and West Virginia and offers hiking enthusiasts a selection of trails to reach the peak. The most popular route to the summit is via the 4-mile Mill Mountain Trail from Wolf Gap. It is considered a moderate route and will reward you will wonderful views from the summit, which is reached via a wooden bridge. You can set up camp at the Wolf Gap Campground or bring along your tent and enjoy a night of backcountry camping near the summit.

Nathaniel Mountain

Nestled in the heart of the Nathaniel Mountain Wildlife Management Area of West Virginia, Nathaniel Mountain reaches an elevation of 2,739 feet and is one of three prominent ridges in this heavily wooded undulating landscape. The area surrounding the mountain offers a wide diversity of activities for outdoor enthusiasts – you can spend your time walking or hiking along a variety of trails or enjoy some excellent bird watching at the two wetlands, which are pretty unique at such a high altitude. Other activities include swimming, trout fishing, kayaking, hunting, mountain biking, and trail running. You can try primitive camping inside the Wildlife Management Area or bring your tent or RV to the nearby Wapocoma Campground.

Patterson Creek Mountain

More ideas: North Fork Mountain Inn

Mill Creek Mountain

Although Mill Creek Mountain is by no means one of the tallest mountains in West Virginia, this long and undulating mountain ridge, which forms part of the Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians, is certainly worth exploring. You can take on the tallest 2,650-foot summit at High Knob or opt to hike along the ridge and explore some of the other 12 interesting summits. Visitors to the area should make a point of visiting Hanging Rocks, a perpendicular series of sandstone cliffs which rise almost 300 feet above the South Branch Potomac River, which has carved a gap right through Mill Creek Mountain. Outdoor activities include hiking, mountain biking, wildlife watching, and camping.

Cacapon Mountain

Running northwest through Hampshire and Morgan counties in the Eastern Panhandle area of West Virginia, Cacapon Mountain reaches a height of 2,618 feet. A large portion of the scenic mountain lies within Cacapon Resort State Park, which you can use as a base for exploring the area – the resort offers cabins and bungalows as well as an inn. There is a 20-mile network of trails within the confines of the state park, varying from gentle nature walks to strenuous hikes and non-hikers can enjoy fishing, horseback riding, boating, swimming, and mountain biking. The scenic Panorama Overlook (off West Virginia Route 9) at the northern end of Cacapon Mountain is definitely worth a visit to admire the views out over three states and the confluence of the Potomac and Cacapon rivers.

Sleepy Creek Mountain

Forming part of the Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians in the Eastern Panhandle, Sleepy Creek Mountain and Third Hill Mountain form a blind valley that is home to Sleepy Creek Lake and the Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area. Outdoor enthusiasts can set up a basecamp at one of the primitive camping sites in the wildlife area and spend a few days exploring all the outdoor activities on offer, which include hiking, walking, hunting and trapping, wildlife watching, and fishing. Hiking enthusiasts and backpackers can set off along the 14.6-mile Tuscarora Trail from Sleepy Creek Lake and spend a night or two enjoying backcountry camping en route.

• 1. Seneca Rocks
• 2. Spruce Knob
• 3. Bear Rocks, West Virginia
• 4. Red Spruce Knob, WV
• 5. Bickle Knob, West Virginia
• 6. Rose Benchmark, WV
• 7. WV Mountains: Cheat Mountain
• 8. Back Allegheny Mountain
• 9. West Virginia Mountains: Mount Port Crayon
• 10. North Fork Mountain
• 11. Allegheny Mountain
• 12. Shavers Mountain
• 13. Shenandoah Mountain
• 14. Backbone Mountain
• 15. Castle Mountain
• 16. Great North Mountain
• 17. Laurel Mountain
• 18. New Creek Mountain
• 19. South Branch Mountain
• 20. Big Schloss
• 21. Nathaniel Mountain
• 22. Patterson Creek Mountain
• 23. Mill Creek Mountain
• 24. Cacapon Mountain
• 25. Sleepy Creek Mountain

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16 Things to Do in the West Virginia Mountains

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The wild mountain country of West Virginia boasts some of the east coast’s most brilliant and exhilarating outdoor adventures. Plan your dream vacation around these spectacular things to do in the West Virginia mountains that includes hiking, fishing, rock climbing , skiing, and sightseeing.

Check out these vacation ideas for your next West Virginia mountain adventure:

Explore the Caverns

Before we ascend any mountains, we’ll start with West Virginia’s underground passageways. Seneca Rocks Caverns and Smoke Hole Caverns offer travelers the opportunity to explore an alien-like world of stalactites and stalagmites, cave-dwelling critters, and hundreds of thousands of years of geological history. Stay at our cabins near Smoke Hole Caverns and be near it all.

Climb the Highest Point in West Virginia

The rugged alpine peak of Spruce Knob features plenty of backpacking and day hiking adventures. An observation tower at the top of Spruce Knob offers incredible 360-degree views of wild country.

Via Ferrata at NROCKS

Release your inner daredevil. Via Ferrata at NROCKS is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Climbers will ascend 1085 feet in elevation, cross a 150-foot high suspension bridge, and reach exposed heights of 280 feet.

Take a Train Tour

Take a trip aborad a classic steam locomotive on the Cass Scenic Railroad. All ages will enjoy the scenic landscapes the train chugs through, including a 22-mile round-trip to the top of Bald Knob.

See some of our favorite West Virginia train rides.

The Best Fly Fishing in West Virginia

Travelers won’t find better fly fishing between the cracks and crevasses of the West Virginia mountains than Monongahela National Forest. The streams are filled with beautiful trout and guests staying at Harman’s Luxury Log Cabins have access to a private 2 mile stretch of prized trophy trout stream of the North Fork River. 

Find out how you can enjoy the best fly fishing in West Virginia.

Picturesque Hiking

Monongahela National Forest features the best in mountain hiking in West Virginia. From Dolly Sods to Seneca Rocks, hiking-enthusiasts will love the selection of trails this area has to offer.

Check out the best hiking trails near Harman’s Log Luxury Log Cabins.

Bird Watching

Birds of all shapes, colors, and sizes can be seen flying above and below the forest canopies of the West Virginia mountains. Birders typically discover eagles, warblers, hawks, turkey, and osprey.

These are the best bird-watching spots in Monongahela National Forest.

Ski the Slopes

Canaan Valley offers the best in skiing thanks to 200-inch average annual snowfall per year. Ski destinations in the area include Canaan Valley Resort and Timberline Resort, each offering 37 downhill trails.

Discover the best ski destinations near Harman’s Luxury Log Cabins.

Take a Ziplining Canopy Tour

The first of its kind in West Virginia, the North Fork Valley Canopy Tour at NROCKS offers the longest and most scenic ziplining canopy tour in the region. While there are plenty of thrills along the tour, including 12 zip lines and three sky bridges, the tour lets adventurers soak in the beauty of the West Virginia mountains.

Find out more about NROCKS ziplining tours.

Horseback Rides with Yokum’s Seneca Rocks Stables

Get the West Virginia mountain experience of a lifetime atop horseback. Riders of all experience levels will get to enjoy an outdoor hike that offers spectacular views of the Seneca Rocks area.

Learn more about Yokum’s Seneca Rocks Stables.

Green Bank Observatory

Green Bank Observatory offers daily public tours of the world-class Green Bank Telescope. Visitors can also visit the Science Center which houses interactive exhibits that teaches the history of radio astronomy.

Visit Seneca Rocks

Rising nearly 900 feet above the North Fork River, Seneca Rocks is one of the state’s most popular natural landmarks. Visitors can enjoy a hiking trail that takes hikers to an observation platform near the top of Seneca Rocks, nearly 700 feet in elevation!

Check out our list of the most Instagrammable spots in West Virginia.

Bear Rocks in Dolly Sods

Bear Rocks is well-known for its flat, barren landscape filled with bogs, red spruce, and boulders. Dolly Sods has several hiking trails and tremendous views overlooking Canaan Valley.

See the best hiking spots in Dolly Sods.

Explore Blackwater Falls State Park

Home to miles of hiking trails, lush forest, and West Virginia’s highest waterfall, Blackwater Falls State Park is a must-visit attraction in the West Virginia mountains. The tannic acid of fallen hemlock and red spruce needles gives the water an amber tint.

See our West Virginia waterfall road trip guide for the most scenic cascades in the state.

Lion’s Head at Dolly Sods

As the name suggests, Lion’s Head is popularly known for its unique rock face that resembles the head of a lion. Lion’s Head is located on Breathed Mountain, just off of Breathed Mountain Trail in Dolly Sods.

Learn more about our cabins near Dolly Sods .

Chimney Rocks

While the hike to Chimney Rocks is deemed difficult, those that do ascend the 2.7 miles North Fork Mountain Trail will enjoy some of the best views in West Virginia. Chimney Rocks gets its name from its chimney stack-like rock formations.

Ready to plan your West Virginia mountain escape? Pick from the best luxury mountain cabins in West Virginia .

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Mountains and mountain ranges.

Some say that if all the mountains in the Mountain State were flattened, West Virginia would be as large as Texas. Certainly most of the state is mountainous, with the exception of a few broad river valleys, such as that of Ohio River , the lower Kanawha River , and South Branch of the  Potomac River .

West Virginia lies entirely within the Appalachian Mountains. Though many of its lesser mountains might be termed "hills," more mountain land exists per square mile in West Virginia than in any other U.S. state. Four provinces of the Appalachian Mountain system are included within West Virginia — the Blue Ridge, the Allegheny Plateau, the Allegheny Mountains, the Cumberland Mountains, and the Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians.

West Virginia Mountains and Mountain Ranges

• Allegheny Mountain
• Armstrong Mountain
• Back-Allegheny Mountain
• Backbone Mountain
• Backus Mountain
• Batoff Mountain
• Beauty Mountain
• Beaver Lick Mountain
• Beury Mountain
• Big Bend Mountain
• Big Stone Ridge
• Black Mountain
• Black Oak Mountain
• Blair Mountain
• Bluestone Mountain
• Briery Mountains
• Buffalo Mountain
• Burner Mountain
• Conley Hill

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‘Almost heaven’? Here’s why West Virginia is the place to go

From white-water rafting to bluegrass concerts, here are 10 wild and wondrous ways to experience the Mountain State.

West Virginia’s Blue Ridge peaks, dramatic gorges, and rushing rivers put it on the map for hikers, rafters, and rock climbers. But the Mountain State isn’t just an adventure destination—it’s also home to historic Civil War sites, old-time music venues, and some of the best stargazing in the United States . We consulted local artists, chefs, and Nat Geo staffers from the region to plot your course in the place that the classic country song calls “ almost heaven .”

Catch the wild waters in New River Gorge

At the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve , hikers explore 100 miles of paths, anglers hook smallmouth bass, and rock climbers scale sandstone cliffs on 70,000 wooded, mountainous acres. But the most heart-pumping way to see America’s newest national park? Hop a guided white-water rafting trip (one of National Geographic’s top 20 Best of the World travel adventures for 2024 ). “Running the Lower Gorge with Class III to V rapids was a blast, and made for a challenging day,” says Anne Farrar, a National Geographic photo editor who grew up near the West Virginia-Ohio border. “Learning to dump a raft, flip it, and climb back in safely was pretty cool. I can’t wait to go back and spend more time on the epic river.”

Dive into Civil War history in Harpers Ferry

Travelers step back in time at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park ,   a riverside settlement with ties to the Civil War. “The   whole town is a walkable museum with furnished 19th-century buildings—a dry goods shop, a tavern—you can peer into,” says Ryleigh Nucilli, a native West Virginian and National Geographic’s director of digital content. You can also visit John Brown’s Fort , the 1848 armory where Brown and his followers staged their famous, doomed anti-slavery rebellion. The park, located at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, also has 22 miles of Blue Ridge hiking trails, many with dazzling mountain and water views.

Go cross-country skiing in a “snow bowl”

Thanks to its elevation (3,200-5,000 feet) and basin-shaped geography, the Canaan Valley region of eastern West Virginia averages about 150 inches of snow a year—a boon for winter recreation. Paper artist Nevada Tribble , who lives in Elkins, recommends renting cross-country skis and gliding off from the White Grass Ski Touring Center , with its 31 miles of groomed paths and a cozy café for après-ski soup, microbrews, and brownies. “The trails take you on lovely journeys through the woods,” says Tribble. “There are wind shelters along the trail where you can scoop up birdseed and try to entice the winter songbirds to land on you.”

Travelers can also rent snowshoes to troop around White Grass, Canaan Valley Resort State Park , or the wintery wilds of the Monongahela National Forest ’s Dolly Sods and Cranberry Wilderness areas.

See the stars—and a mammoth telescope

In the remote Potomac Highlands of eastern West Virginia, mountainous Pocahontas County gives travelers stellar stargazing ops at three state parks with International Dark Sky Association designation: Calvin Price State Forest , Droop Mountain Battlefield , and Watoga State Park .   The last, the state’s largest state park, has cabins, campsites, and an observation tower.

The county also holds the world’s largest fully steerable radio telescope at the Green Bank Observatory , a 485-foot-high, 17-million-pound behemoth used for atmospheric studies, satellite tracking, and spacecraft monitoring. Visitors can walk or bike on paved trails around the scope or join guided tours inside the observatory. Each July the Green Bank Star Quest has rocket launches for kids and astronomy programs.  

Take the waters in Berkeley Springs  

In the Eastern Panhandle of Western Virginia, warm mineral water has been luring soakers to Berkeley Springs since as far back as the colonial era. The centerpiece of the spa town, Berkeley Springs State Park has hot tubs, sauna sessions, and massages in structures including the historic 1812 Old Roman Bath House. Find antiques stores, indie shops, and a handful of wellness boutiques in the town’s walkable 19th-century downtown.

Try the farm-to-table food  

“We are hunters and gatherers in Appalachia,” says Paul Smith , the James Beard Award-nominated chef of Charleston’s 1010 Bridge restaurant. “We cook what’s in season—the beans, the tomatoes, the peppers—and then, pickle, cure, or ferment them, so we can use them all year.” At his restaurant in the West Virginia capital, that might mean johnny cakes with local apple slaw or trout over kimchee made from foraged ramps (wild leeks).

At Lost Creek Farm ,   popular suppers held May through September star dishes such as spicy cold peach soup and wild mushroom “bologna,” which are “rooted in Appalachian heritage but also avant-garde,” says Nucilli.  

Descend into the state’s mining history  

Mountainous West Virginia has a long history of coal mining. Learn more at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine , where visitors ride “mantrip” cars 1,500 feet into a shaft, guided by headlamp-wearing former miners. “When you go into the mine and hear the click and clack, you think of those countless men and women who have gone deep down in the Earth,” says T. Ramon Stuart, president of West Virginia University Institute of Technology in Beckley.

Explore the crafts scene

From quilt making to wood carving and weaving, mountain crafts have a long history in West Virginia. Shop for both traditional and contemporary wares by 500 local artisans and makers at the Tamarack Marketplace , a cultural center in Beckley. The spot hosts crafts demos and a food court serving local dishes such as pepperoni rolls—an Italian American snack popular with miners.

Or head to Thomas, a former coal town-turned-art haven in Tucker County. On East Avenue,   Those Who Bloom   sells affordable prints by Appalachian creatives in a rehabbed 19th-century storefront, and Nellie Rose Textiles   offers colorful, hand-dyed women’s clothing and accessories.

Hike or climb a dramatic rock formation

Like a mouth of snaggled stone teeth, Seneca Rocks juts out of the mountainside in the Eastern Panhandle above the North Fork River. The imposing quartzite formation—one of West Virginia’s most distinctive natural landmarks—can be explored via a steep, short hike or on a guided horseback ride . Experienced rock climbers also gravitate to the area to scale Seneca Rocks and neighboring Champe Rocks.

Hear some mountain music

The wail of fiddle, the steely twang of a banjo— bluegrass and old-time music have their roots in Appalachia and West Virginia. Catch these and other distinctive sounds at frequent live recordings of NPR’s legendary Mountain Stage show at the Culture Center in Charleston or take in an outdoor jam at the Appalachian String Band Festival each summer in Clifftop.

“The sawtooth, jagged nature of the music and the local landscapes is an intriguing combination,” says Trent Wagler, a banjo player and singer. His Americana band The Steel Wheels often takes the stage at The Purple Fiddle in Thomas, a vintage general store-turned-concert venue and pub. “It’s the kind of place a jam session would likely unfurl on its own even if there wasn’t a band booked.”

Other live music venues include 123 Pleasant Street in Morgantown (“It’s got a cool stage and vibe in a college town,” says Wagler), and the circa-1902 Carnegie Hall in Lewisburg, where The Legends of WV Bluegrass frequently perform.

For more tips on what to do in West Virginia, see our Explorer’s Guide .

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

8 Must-See Spots In West Virginia’s Allegheny Mountains

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• West Virginia

There’s a reason why West Virginia is affectionately known as the Mountain State. The gorgeous Allegheny Mountain Range — part of the southern Appalachians — runs through most of the state, making it one of the most stunning spots in the United States to visit.

While West Virginia is absolutely an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, there are terrific things for everyone to see and do in the Alleghenies. Here are a few of our favorite spots in the mountain range.

Steve Heap / Shutterstock

1. New River Gorge Bridge

To really get a feel for the majesty of this corner of the country, head to the New River Gorge Bridge , just north of Fayetteville, West Virginia. It’s the longest steel span in the Western Hemisphere and the third-highest in the United States; it’s so famous that it was chosen to represent West Virginia on its state quarter.

Of course, you’ll want to drive across, but make sure to take time to stop at the Canyon Rim Visitor Center on the north side for some stunning views and terrific photo ops. If you’re lucky enough to be in the area on the third Saturday in October, stop by for Bridge Day , when the famous span is opened to pedestrians and daredevil BASE jumpers . Keep your eyes peeled for the whitewater rafters who often pass on the river below.

Malgorzata Litkowska / Shutterstock

2. Hawks Nest State Park

Just a few miles northwest of the New River Gorge Bridge is one of West Virginia’s most beautiful state parks. Hawks Nest State Park is nestled above the river and boasts incredible, rugged landscapes and a scenic overlook of the gorge and Hawks Nest Lake below. There is ample hiking, but if you don’t want to climb all the way to the top, no worries — there is an aerial tram. There’s also a nature center, a nine-hole golf course, and a 31-room lodge on-site. It makes a great home base from which to explore this portion of the Allegheny Range.

3. Blackwater Falls State Park

Located in Tucker County, about 3 hours due west of Washington, D.C., Blackwater Falls State Park is another stunner. The park is located within the Monongahela National Forest , and its crown jewel is a 60-foot cascade where the Blackwater River enters the canyon of the same name. You’ll notice that the water that flows here isn’t exactly crystal clear; rather, it takes on a faint beige hue due to the high tannic acid content from fallen hemlock and red spruce needles. Blackwater Falls is one of the most photographed sites in the state, and once you see it in person, you’ll understand why.

Keep in mind that you’ll have to hike to reach the site — there isn’t an option to drive directly to them. Once inside the park, a trail and boardwalk will take you close to the west side of the Falls; there’s an overlook on the opposite side of the gorge.

Seneca Caverns WV / Shutterstock

4. Seneca Caverns

An hour south of Blackwater Falls is an intriguing geological site: Seneca Caverns . The Native Americans who settled in West Virginia traveled to the Alleghenies to trade, and the limestone caverns here provided the Seneca tribe with shelter, storage, and space for ceremonies.

You can’t explore the caverns on your own; you must take one of the guided tours. They take about an hour and have been going on since 1928. You must descend steps to reach the caverns, which are 160 feet below ground, and once you’re there, you’ll walk about a mile. While the paths can be a bit uneven, the trail is wide, and there are handrails to help with your descent.

As you wander through the cave complex, you’ll see many different formations carved out by the water millions of years ago. A trip here is a great way to escape the summer heat, since the caverns stay at a constant 54 degrees. It’s so chilly that you’ll want to consider taking a jacket! Adult admission costs $15.

The Old Major / Shutterstock

5. Cass Scenic Railroad State Park

As you explore the West Virginia mountains, you’ll get a sense of how important the railroads were to this part of the country at the dawn of the Industrial Revolution. Raw materials that needed to be transported across America went via locomotive. Thousands of men carved out the land, blasting tunnels and laying tracks so that the trains could move through.

To learn more about their efforts and the role of the railways in West Virginia history, visit the Cass Scenic Railroad State Park . The park features an 11-mile heritage railroad that visitors can take to the top of Bald Knob; they can also explore the town of Cass, which was founded by the West Virginia Pulp and Paper Company in 1901 for the loggers and millworkers who worked on this remote mountain stretch. Renovated “company homes” are available for nightly rentals, the Cass Company Store sells artisan crafts, and you can grab a hearty meal at the Last Run Restaurant before heading back down the mountain.

John Henry Historical Park

6. John Henry Historical Park

Building the railroads was backbreaking work. And in the small town of Talcott, West Virginia, during a real-life contest between man and machine, a legend was born. This is the place where steel driver John Henry worked to bore a tunnel into Big Bend Mountain for the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway. When a steam drill was introduced to speed up the process, John Henry took it as a threat to his job security. He challenged the machine to a contest, won, and became a hero. Today, a statue at the John Henry Historical Park pays tribute to this larger-than-life figure who inspired tall tales, folk songs, and American workers everywhere.

7. West Virginia Penitentiary

In the far northern portion of West Virginia, in the town of Moundsville, sits a Gothic-style building with a dark past. The West Virginia Penitentiary operated from 1876 until 1995, housed some of the state’s most dangerous criminals, and was known as one of the most violent correctional facilities in the United States. Now open for tours , it’s also got a reputation for paranormal activity. Visitors can explore the main level and recreation yards and hear about the history of the prison, including one infamous prisoner who wasn’t permitted in: Charles Manson. Tickets cost $14 for adults.

8. The Greenbrier

After all these activities, perhaps you’re ready for a luxe place to wind down. Fortunately, one of the nation’s poshest resorts is tucked away in West Virginia’s Allegheny Range, and it’s also steeped in history.

The thermal springs around The Greenbrier were what first drew visitors to this mountain spot in the late 1700s. Since then, it’s hosted 27 of America’s 45 presidents. Guests can take part in any number of activities on-site, peruse the boutiques, try their luck at the casino, and take to the waters and receive other relaxing services at the spa. There are several restaurants on-site, and the resort offers packages as well as holiday specials.

One remnant of the Cold War that history buffs will want to check out at The Greenbrier is its vast underground bunker , designed to house the U.S. Congress and keep the government going in case of a nuclear attack. You can book a tour to explore the House and Senate Chambers, dorms, and cafeteria.

The nearby town of White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, is also worth a look; it’s got a charming Main Street district.

If you’d like to get a taste of West Virginia’s Allegheny Range but would prefer to skip the mountain driving, consider a trip aboard the Amtrak Cardinal . It departs three times a week, and from the state capital of Charleston, it’s just a 3-hour trip to White Sulphur Springs. You’ll pass the New River Gorge Bridge and other incredible sights, and the train depot is located just outside The Greenbrier’s front gates.

Want to experience more of what West Virginia has to offer? Here are seven things to do in the state with the whole family .

Communication done well has always been Erika’s career focus. She’s served as a publicist and PR expert for several non-profit organizations based in St. Louis. Prior to that, she was an Emmy Award–winning television newscast producer.

When she’s not training for her next race or packing for another trip, you’ll find Erika hanging out with her husband, son, and personal zoo, which includes a King Charles Cavalier Spaniel, two cats, and a grumpy pygmy hedgehog.

The 6 best hikes in West Virginia

Jan 7, 2022 • 7 min read

Two national parks and 35 state parks call West Virginia home © ablokhin / Getty Images

The Appalachian Mountains ripple across West Virginia , their forested slopes hiding a network of trails that plunge down gorges, roll past waterfalls, navigate boulder fields and ribbon along ancient rivers.

From the high-elevation wilds of Dolly Sods to the sandstone boulders of Beartown, unique natural features are geologic highlights. Mining and logging history adds context to many of the views, while two national parks – Harpers Ferry and New River Gorge – call the Mountain State home. And the 35 state parks, which showcase some of the state’s best trails? All of them are free. Here are six trails to get you started.

Endless Wall Trail

Best hike for big views 3-mile loop, 1-2 hours, easy to moderate 

With dizzying views of the New River Gorge and its ancient sandstone cliffs, the Endless Wall Trail in New River Gorge National Park packs a memorable punch. The cliffs along the trail are popular for rock climbing, and on nice days you’ll likely share the path with climbers heading to and from the rim. 

From the Fern Creek parking lot, the trail meanders through a thick forest marked by rhododendron thickets, moss-covered logs and the eerie creaking of the towering trees, which sway in the rim-top breezes. After crossing Fern Creek, the trail ribbons along the edge of the canyon, where short spur trails end at sheer-walled rock ledges. After one mile, a signed trail cuts toward the Diamond Point Overlook.

Only a small percentage of the world's rivers flow north, and the New River is one of them. One of the oldest rivers in the world, the New has carved a relentless path through the Appalachian Plateau. Evidence of its power unfurls dramatically from the southern edge of Diamond Point, where you’ll have an unobstructed view of both the water and the seemingly endless cliffs. For a pleasant 2.2-mile out-and-back, return the way you came.

Otherwise, continue along the rim to the Nuttall trailhead parking lot on Lansing-Edmond Rd. For a three-mile loop, carefully follow Lansing-Edmond Rd north for a quarter mile or so back to your car. There’s a narrow gravel walkway beside the road. Note: This trail gets busy. If the parking lots are full, do not park on the road. You might be towed. 

Seneca Rocks Trail

Best hike to an iconic landmark 3 miles roundtrip, 2 hours, moderate

Rising nearly 900ft, the craggy peaks of Seneca Rocks cut a dramatic profile against the skyline in the remote wilds of Monongahela National Forest. The first recorded rock climbing ascent was in 1939, and droves of climbers from up and down the East Coast have driven to this far-flung spot ever since. Its sandstone flanks hold more than 400 routes, but land-loving mortals can also enjoy up-close views of the formation – they just need to hike the 1.5-mile trail Seneca Rocks Trail. 

From the Seneca Rocks Parking Area, the trail crosses the North Fork of the South Branch of the Potomac River, then rolls through a hardwood forest. A series of switchbacks kicks in, rising 700ft. The trail ends at an observation deck at the northern end of the steep-walled formation. Views of the valley, the North Fork and surrounding peaks spread out majestically beyond the white-gray rocks. Spruce Knob, the state’s highest point at 4,863ft, is also visible to the south.

For more information about recreational activities in the national forest and to learn more about rock climbing here, stop by the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center, which is a short walk from the parking lot. 

Beartown State Park Loop

Best hike for families .5-mile loop, 1 hour, easy 

Despite the name, it’s unlikely that any bears will be spotted in this state park . But kids will have fun darting around the fragmented boulders that line this short lo op on Droop Mountain. The enormous rocks are pieces of ancient sandstone that have broken off from the mountain’s eastern summit. The park’s name was inspired by the many caves and crevices in the boulders, which resemble black bear dens.

Tucked deep in a shadowy forest dark with hemlocks and yellow birches, the trail follows a wooden boardwalk that drops, climbs, twists and sometimes squeezes through a veritable wonderland of moss-covered boulders, sheer rock faces and overhanging cliffs. A few of the rocks, with their green, fern-topped crowns, resemble creatures from a fantasy novel. Signage along the boardwalk discusses the park’s geology and its lush plant life. 

The park is 25 miles north of Lewisburg and open April through October. Extend the adventure with a trip to nearby Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park , where a wooden lookout tower provides a sweeping view of the Greenbrier River Valley and nearby mountains. 

Dolly Sods Wilderness: Bear Rocks Trail to Rocky Ridge Trail

Best hike for dramatic views 8 miles round-trip, 4-5 hours, moderate

With its rocky and windswept terrain – evocative of the mountain regions of southern Canada and New England – this high-altitude wilderness area  atop the Allegheny Plateau is remote, mostly empty and starkly gorgeous. You may encounter crowds on summer and fall weekends, particularly near Bear Rocks Preserve and its high-elevation views, but spotty cell-phone service and gravel forest roads leading to the trailheads are deterrents for some. Don't stray far from the trails – the area was used as a WWII training ground, and there may be unexploded ordnance in the wilderness.

From the Bear Rocks trailhead, numerous loops are possible – but be aware that as a wilderness area, signage is minimal, and route-finding can be tricky. The Bear Rocks Trail crosses a vast meadow, also known as a sods, that was created after the area was logged in the early 1900s. Today it's covered with rocks, shrub grasses and red spruce. At 2.4 miles, turn right onto the Raven Ridge Trail, following it across more meadows and through a small forest to the Rocky Ridge Trail.

Follow the latter south along the high-elevation ridge line, then cut left to a prominent patch of sandstone boulders. With a panoramic view of mountains to the west, it's a nice picnic spot. Retrace your steps. It’s possible to loop back via the Dobbin Grade Trail – just note that it can be hard to navigate the Rocky Ridge Trail through the boulders to reach the Dobbin Grade trailhead. Parts of the Dobbin Grade can get boggy.

Kaymoor Miners Trail

Best hike for historic scenery 2 miles, 2 hours, strenuous 

As the New River carved its way through the Appalachian Plateau, it gradually exposed seams of high-quality coal trapped deep in the rock. Once discovered, mining companies descended, and small communities sprang up to support the excavating operations.

Established in the 1890s, the Kaymoor mines were some of the most productive in the gorge before ceasing operations in 1962, churning out more than 16 million tons of coal. The short-but-steep Kaymoor Miners Trail, which begins near Fayetteville, drops from the rim of the gorge via steps and switchbacks to the mining site. From there, 876 steps plunge to the ruins of a coal-processing plant and the abandoned townsite near the river. Hikers should leave artifacts along the trail undisturbed, and be aware that the train tracks along the river are still active. 

The Kaymoor Trail runs parallel to the river along the middle slopes of the gorge, and it intersects the Kaymoor Miners Trail where it passes the mine. A two-mile section of the Kaymoor Trail is closed due to unstable slopes, so plan your route carefully if you want to link to other trails.

Canyon Rim Boardwalk & Sandstone Boardwalk Trails

Best hike for accessibility Canyon Rim Boardwalk, .2 miles roundtrip, 15 min, easy Sandstone Falls Boardwalk, .4 miles roundtrip, 15-30min, easy

Two accessible boardwalk trails in New River Gorge National Park end at scenic overlooks. The Canyon Rim Boardwalk Trail begins near the Canyon Rim Visitor Center and ends with a tree-framed view of the graceful New River Gorge Bridge , one of the longest single-span arch bridges in the world. From the overlook, 178 steps drop to a second viewpoint.  

The Sandstone Falls Boardwalk Trail is 55 driving miles south of the Canyon Rim Visitor Center. The trailhead appears after a scenic 8-mile drive along the New River. The fully accessible boardwalk crosses several forested islands before ending at a riverside observation deck. The 1,500ft-long falls stretch photogenically across the river just upstream, dropping 10ft to 25ft.

Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before  traveling during COVID-19 .

You might also like: West Virginia's New River Gorge is full of wild and wonderful outdoor adventures West Virginia will pay remote workers $12,000 to move there 24 Hours in Charleston, West Virginia

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The Best of West Virginia

History, Science and Outdoor Adventures in the Mountain State

There's a lot more to West Virginia than the mountains which give the state its nickname.  Whether you're a sports fanatic, railroad enthusiast or science buff, you will find plenty to do in the Mountain State.  True, you'll have to do some mountain driving to reach many of these spots, but the rewards are well worth your time.  Here are our top picks for West Virginia sightseeing.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Harpers Ferry , where the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers meet, was the setting for John Brown's ill-fated slave uprising in 1859.  During the Civil War, Harpers Ferry changed hands several times and was the site of General Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson's Confederate victory in 1862.  Today, this picturesque old town is a National Historical Park, complete with museums, hiking trails and a truly spectacular view of the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. Harpers Ferry is also a great place to go rafting.

Seneca Rocks

Seneca Rocks , a jagged rock formation in Pendleton County, West Virginia, attracts hikers, photographers and sightseers from around the country.  They come for the sights – rocks soaring into a blue sky, birds wheeling above the green valley – as well as for the trails and for the natural beauty of the North Fork Valley. Bring your GPS and check out the geocache at the top of Seneca Rocks.

Scenic Railroad Excursions

West Virginia's scenic railroads travel through some of the most beautiful parts of the Mountain State. Whether you take a railroad trip on a warm summer day or ride the rails to see spectacular fall colors, you will come away with an appreciation for the mighty locomotives as well as for West Virginia's mountain vistas. Book your journey on the Cass Scenic Railroad, Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad, Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad, or, for a real treat, the New River Train, which runs only four times per year. ( Tip :  Book your railroad adventure early. Most journeys sell out quickly, particularly in the autumn.)

The Greenbrier

West Virginia's most famous hotel, which opened in 1778, has a fabled history.  The Greenbrier has played host to presidents, tycoons and stars. The hotel has also served as a military hospital (during the Civil War and World War II) and emergency bunker for the Cold War Congress. Today visitors travel to The Greenbrier to play golf, enjoy the hotel's renowned spa and relax in the serenity of West Virginia's forested mountains.

National Radio Astronomy Observatory Green Bank

Steve Parode

In a lush green Pocahontas County valley, you can experience cutting-edge astronomy.  The National Radio Astronomy Observatory  (NRAO) in Green Bank, West Virginia is home to the largest fully-steerable radio telescope on Earth, the Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope.  Take a bus tour of the valley and see the many radio telescopes. Afterward, visit NRAO Green Bank's on-site museum to learn more about the astronomy research that is currently happening at the NRAO.

Outdoor Adventures

West Virginia's mountains and rivers are more than just scenic destinations – they are home to West Virginia's many outdoor recreation adventures. Whitewater rafting, hiking and walking are popular summertime activities, while skiing and snow sports dominate the winter calendar. Take a scenic drive at any time of year; you will be rewarded with beautiful views and a close-up look at the natural beauty of the Mountain State.

Hunting and Fishing

West Virginia's fantastic hunting and fishing opportunities draw sportsmen from near and far. If you enjoy fishing or hunting, consider spending a weekend – or more – in West Virginia. ( Tip: Remember to buy your hunting or fishing license before heading into the wilderness.)

New River Gorge National River

New River Gorge National River , part of the US National Park system, attracts over one million visitors each year.  The park, which encompasses a 50-plus mile stretch of the New River, preserves some of West Virginia's best-known landmarks and view points, including the Great Bend Tunnel where legendary steel driver John Henry faced off against a steam-powered machine and the New River Bridge, over 3,000 feet long and 876 feet high.  At New River Gorge National River, you can walk, hike, paddle, raft, camp and absorb the region's compelling coal mining heritage. Every October, the park hosts Bridge Day; BASE jumpers and rappellers gather on the bridge and leap, climb, and even zip line to the river below - 876 feet.

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Where to Find the Best Mountain Views in West Virginia

You won’t have to look hard to find amazing views of the Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountains in West Virginia ; it is the Mountain State, after all. Just driving on highways that criss-cross the state, such as I-77, I-79, and I-64, provides broad landscape views, and when you get off the main roads, the vistas are even better. Here are the places where you’ll find the most spectacular mountain views in the state.

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Coopers Rock State Forest

Located just 30 minutes east of Morgantown, West Virginia, Coopers Rock State Forest is packed with overlooks of the Cheat River and Cheat River Gorge. If you just want a quick view, pull up to the easily accessible main overlook platform. If you have more time to spend, consider going on a day hike to the Raven Rocks Overlook or doing some rock climbing to get a unique view. The park also offers camping and has playgrounds and picnic tables.

At the juncture of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers in West Virginia’s eastern panhandle is the historic town of Harpers Ferry . Known for John Brown’s raid and action during the Civil War , the surrounding town is a perfect place to take in views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Cross over the Potomac River to Maryland, and you’ll get great river scenery biking along the C&O Canal Path. Or hike up to Maryland Heights for a spectacular view of where the rivers meet and Harpers Ferry.

Spruce Knob

Spruce Knob is the highest point in West Virginia and a perfect place to look out over the vast Monongahela National Forest. You can drive all the way up to the lookout tower, which is faster than hiking, but it is a long, winding road up. Going in the fall when the forest erupts in reds, oranges, and yellows makes for a truly spectacular view.

Seneca Rocks

Seneca Rocks is very close to Spruce Knob, and even the Visitor Center is a great place to look up at the unusual rock formation. This area is one of the highlights of the Monongahela National Forest, and you can either hike your way to the top and look out over the mountains still on the eastern side of the Continental Divide or check out one of the local climbing schools and rock climb your way to the top.

Rich Mountain Battlefield

Just south of Elkins, West Virginia, in the town of Beverly, you’ll find Rich Mountain . The site of a Civil War battle, the mountain gives context to the role that the Allegheny Mountains played in the early days of the Civil War. The town is also home to the Beverly Heritage Center, where you can learn more about the frontier life in the then-state of Virginia and the Staunton-Parkersburg turnpike that connected the Shenandoah Valley with Ohio.

Cass Scenic Railroad

At Cass Scenic Railroad State Park , you can ride a historic, restored steam engine up into the mountains. The surrounding mountains were once clear-cut by loggers, providing fuel and building material for the Industrial Revolution in the early 1900s. The train winds its way to the state’s third-highest peak, Bald Knob, and along the way, you’ll get to have scenic views of the Greenbrier River Valley.

Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge

While Canaan Valley is a valley, the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge has great views of the mountains that surround the very high-elevation valley. The refuge has over 60 miles (96.5 kilometers) of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and borders the Monongahela National Forest, which also offers beautiful panoramas from the Dolly Sods Wilderness Area.

Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park

Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park commemorates the Civil War battle fought on the mountain. The park has a history museum, as well as hiking trails, but one of the highlights of the park is the viewing tower (accessible by car), where you can look out over the Allegheny Mountains.

The Canyon Rim Visitor Center

The Canyon Rim Visitor Center is a part of the New River Gorge National River Area, both of which offer some of the best views in southern West Virginia. The New River Gorge Bridge might be the most photographed landscape in the state, and the Visitor Center offers great scenes of the bridge and canyon. You can also hike the trails along either side of the gorge for great photo opportunities. There are also lots of outfitters who will take you white-water rafting down the river for an even more unique experience to view this amazing natural feature.

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10 Best Places to Visit in West Virginia

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on October 3, 2023

Tucked away between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Ohio River, West Virginia is an absolutely beautiful part of the States to explore, with a plethora of incredible landscapes on show.

Its many mountains, forests, and whitewater rivers lend themselves perfectly to all kinds of fantastic outdoor activities. As the state is mostly overlooked by tourists, you’ll often have all the incredible scenery to yourself.

Map of Places to Visit in West Virginia

Despite being quite sparsely populated and rural, there are some lovely mountain towns for you to visit, with lots of interesting Civil War historical sights and cultural landmarks on show. Very much a hidden gem, West Virginia’s gorgeous countryside and natural wonders are waiting to be explored.

10. Cass Scenic Railroad

As well as taking you through some lovely countryside, the Cass Scenic Railroad also takes you into the past, as you ride in a beautiful old carriage pulled by a steam-driven locomotive. Hearing the whistle blow and seeing steam billow out above the train is a magical experience, and train lovers will enjoy taking a ride on the heritage railroad.

Surrounding the tracks is a delightful state park of the same name. Around the historic lumber mill town of Cass, there are many beautiful hills and valleys for you to explore, with hiking, mountain biking, and boating all on offer.

One of the best moments of the train ride is when you approach the summit of Bald Knob – the third highest peak in the state – and see the world stretching away towards the horizon.

9. Seneca Rocks State Park

One of the most impressive and recognizable natural sights in the whole of West Virginia, the distinctive Seneca Rocks lie at the heart of a wonderful state park of the same name; they are definitely worth checking out if you want to go rock climbing or hiking in a pristine setting.

The jagged rock formations have a remarkable 375 different rock climbing routes for you to try out, and the panoramic views from the tops of both North Peak and South Peak make the climb well worth the effort.

With the gently ululating forest-coated hills below only punctuated by seas of green grass and fields, the scenery is a delight. Hiking along the state park’s many paths and trails is a lovely way to spend a morning or afternoon.

8. Fayetteville

Despite its small stature, the tiny town of Fayetteville certainly packs a punch with all that it has for you to see and do. While its historic downtown area is full of great bars, restaurants, and galleries, the main reason that everyone visits is the astounding nature that lies at its doorstep.

With the millennia-old New River coursing nearby, Fayetteville attracts lots of thrillseekers, who come to partake in the exhilarating outdoor adventure activities it has to offer up; kayaking and whitewater rafting down the New River Gorge are popular pastimes.

In addition to this, visitors can go horseback riding or llama trekking through the nearby natural areas, or rock climbing or rappelling in the gorge and fishing along the river.

7. Hawks Nest State Park

Lying just to the north of Fayetteville, Hawks Nest State Park is another fantastic place to head if you love the great outdoors. There are lots of different activities for you to choose from, as well as beautiful landscapes to explore. While the most majestic view is undoubtedly that of New River Gorge Bridge and the reflective waters below it, there is loads of lovely scenery on show.

Visitors can go hiking or mountain biking along a plethora of different trails and paths that snake their way through the surrounding forests. As well as going on a heart-racing whitewater rafting trip down the New River, you can also take a scenic trip on the state park’s aerial gondola. The view is particularly spectacular during fall when the foliage below turns a mesmerizing array of yellows, reds, and oranges.

6. Snowshoe Mountain Resort

Located on Cheat Mountain, Snowshoe Mountain Resort is the largest ski resort in the area. Consequently, every winter, hordes of skiers and snowboarders from all around the US and further afield descend upon its many slopes, pistes, and trails. With cute, cozy cabins for you to stay in, the resort is a lovely place to vacation.

While most people visit Snowshoe Mountain Resort during the winter, summer also has its charms; the surrounding forests have lots of great hiking paths and mountain bike trails for you to explore.

In addition to this, there is a golf course on offer, as well as a spa and swimming pool complex. Guests can also enjoy watersports on the lake.

5. Berkeley Springs State Park

Home to a magnificent mineral spa that has been used for eons, Berkeley Springs State Park is a lovely place to head to if you want to unwind, relax, and bathe in its restorative waters. Long known for their medicinal powers, the warm waters bubble up from natural mineral springs.

The state park has been used as a health resort for over 250 years, with the first bathhouse built here all the way back in 1784. The historic Roman bathhouse is very picturesque with all the lovely trees, gardens, and pools around it. Visitors can go for a dip in one of the baths, enjoy a steamy sauna, or book an invigorating massage.

4. Charles Town

Not to be confused with the state capital Charleston, the historic Charles Town is a very popular place to visit and was named after George Washington’s youngest brother. Founded in 1787, you can still see many of the family’s former homes and farms scattered about here and there, and there is a very quaint, small-town feel about the place.

A great place to head to if you want to learn more about the region’s rich history is the Jefferson County Museum, which has lots of interesting artifacts and photographs on display. Charles Town also makes for a laidback base if you want to head off to explore the wilds of the Shannondale Springs Wildlife Management Area.

There’s also a water park located nearby if you want to splash about and have some fun, and a casino if you want to try your luck at blackjack, poker, and slot machines.

3. Charleston

The largest city in the whole of West Virginia, Charleston lies at the point where the Elk and Kanawha Rivers meet. Its impressive State Capitol building is set in a very scenic spot overlooking their tranquil waters. As it is the commercial, cultural, and administrative heart of the region, there’s a lot going on, and numerous festivals and events take place here during the year.

While walking around town, you’ll see lots of beautiful old buildings, which display a variety of different architectural styles. There are a couple of fantastic museums for you to check out, such as the Avampato Discovery Museum and the West Virginia State Museum.

In addition to its historical and cultural attractions, Charleston has some brilliant restaurants, bars, and cafes scattered around the city, with lots of parks and nature spots also on offer. These make for some fantastic hiking and mountain biking; the nearby Kanawha State Forest is particularly delightful to explore.

2. Blackwater Falls State Park

One of the most photogenic places in the whole of West Virginia, Blackwater Falls State Park certainly is majestic; the glorious waterfall that lies at its heart is undoubtedly the highlight of what is on show. Covering a vast swathe of territory in the Allegheny Mountains, the state park is centered around Canaan Valley and Blackwater River, with lots of lovely forests and woodlands found to either side.

Exploring the myriad of paths and trails that meander through the stunning scenery is a magical experience as you pass beautiful viewpoints and sparkling waterfalls. It is well worth camping overnight in the park if you have the opportunity.

Coursing over Blackwater Falls, the white jets of water stand out delightfully against the greens of the trees lining the riverbanks. Fall is a particularly pleasant time of year to visit, as the foliage creates an unforgettable scene.

1. Harpers Ferry

The most popular tourist attraction in the whole of the state, Harpers Ferry is located at the point where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet, with enchanting, forest-coated mountains all around it.

Due to its strategic location, the small town was fiercely fought over during the American Civil War. As such, there are a number of interesting historical sights for you to check out, with plenty of old buildings and important landmarks on show.

While many visitors come to learn more about the role Harpers Ferry played in the Civil War and to see its many sights, just as many come to enjoy the magnificent wilderness in the area. Whether it’s ziplining, whitewater rafting, or inner tubing, there are loads of fun activities for you to try out.

Hiking along the scenic Appalachian Trail is a must if you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature. While Harpers Ferry is undoubtedly quite a touristy place, there is a lovely laidback vibe to the town, with lots for you to see and do.

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January 24, 2021 at 9:09 am

Born in Madison WV I’ve been to 7 out of 10

October 19, 2020 at 8:48 am

New River Gorge should be #1 imo. It’s one of the most beautiful places in the East Coast.

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20 Enchanting West Virginia Mountain Towns to Visit

West Virginia, known for its stunning natural beauty and adventurous spirit, is home to some of the most charming and picturesque mountain towns in the country. From quaint and historic communities nestled in the Appalachian Mountains to bustling ski resorts in the Allegheny Mountains, there is no shortage of scenic destinations to explore in this charming state. In this article, we will take a closer look at 20 of the best mountain towns in West Virginia, each with its own unique charm and appeal for every type of traveler. So pack your bags, grab your hiking boots, and get ready to discover the beauty and charm of these best places in the mountain state.

The Best Mountain Towns To Visit in West Virginia

Here are some of the best mountain towns in West Virginia:

1. Harpers Ferry: Where History and Nature Meet

Harpers Ferry is a picturesque little town nestled in the mountains of West Virginia, where history and natural beauty collide to create a charming destination for visitors. Steeped in history, this quaint town was the site of John Brown’s raid in 1859, a pivotal event leading up to the Civil War. Today, visitors can explore the historic buildings, museums, and landmarks that tell the story of Harpers Ferry’s past. In addition to its historical significance, Harpers Ferry is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its proximity to the Appalachian Trail and Shenandoah River. Hiking, biking, and water activities are popular ways to soak in the stunning mountain views and lush landscapes that surround this idyllic mountain town.

2. Lewisburg: A Cultural Gem in the Greenbrier Valley

Lewisburg, a charming town nestled in the heart of West Virginia’s beautiful mountains, is often hailed as one of the best mountain towns in the state. Known for its historic downtown district filled with quaint shops, galleries, and restaurants, Lewisburg offers visitors a glimpse into small-town America at its finest. The town also boasts a vibrant arts scene, with regular concerts, theater productions, and art festivals throughout the year. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to some of the state’s most scenic hiking trails and fishing spots. With friendly locals and a laid-back atmosphere, Lewisburg is the perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of West Virginia.

3. Fayetteville: Gateway to Outdoor Adventures

Fayetteville is one of the best mountain towns in West Virginia, known for its charming small-town feel and breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled in the famous New River Gorge National Park, outdoor enthusiasts flock to Fayetteville for its world-class rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and hiking opportunities. The town itself boasts a vibrant arts community, with galleries and live music venues scattered throughout its historic streets. Visitors can also explore unique local shops and cafes, offering everything from handmade crafts to farm-to-table cuisine.

4. Davis: A Haven for Hikers and Skiers

Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Davis is a charming little town that offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and small-town hospitality. Known for its close proximity to Canaan Valley Resort State Park and Blackwater Falls State Park, Davis is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts looking to hike, bike, ski, or simply take in the breathtaking mountain views. The town itself is home to quaint shops, delicious restaurants serving up local fare, and friendly locals who are always willing to point you in the right direction for your next adventure.

5. Thomas: Artistic Heart of the Alleghenies

Located in the Allegheny Mountains, Thomas is often hailed as one of the best mountain towns in West Virginia for good reason. With its charming small-town feel and breathtaking scenery, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The town boasts a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries showcasing local talent, as well as unique shops and boutiques to explore. Outdoor activities abound in Thomas, from hiking and biking along scenic trails to fishing and whitewater rafting on nearby rivers.

In the winter months, visitors can hit the slopes at nearby ski resorts or try their hand at snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Plus, according to a recent study from “ Architectural Digest, ” the median value of a home in Thomas is approximately  $132,303 , and the town, located in Tucker County, was ranked as the #1 hidden gem as well as the fourth-best mountain town in the entire country, solidifying its reputation as the artistic heart of the Alleghenies.

6. Berkeley Springs: Spa Town with a Rich History

Berkeley Springs is one of the best West Virginia mountain towns, offering a charming small-town feel with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. This historic town is famous for its natural springs and unique Roman bathhouse, making it a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Visitors can explore the quaint shops and galleries along the main street or take a hike in Cacapon State Park for stunning views of the surrounding mountains. With cozy bed and breakfasts, delicious local restaurants, and an artsy community vibe, Berkeley Springs has all the makings of a perfect weekend getaway in the heart of the West Virginia mountains.

7. Elkins: The Mountain City of Music and Festivals

Elkins, situated in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, is a charming mountain town that offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventure and cultural attractions. Known for its scenic beauty and small-town charm, Elkins is located in Randolph County and is home to attractions such as the iconic Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad, which offers scenic rides through the mountains, as well as the American Mountain Theater, where visitors can enjoy live musical performances. The town also boasts easy access to outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and camping in the nearby Monongahela National Forest.

8. Seneca Rocks: Climbing Mecca of the East

Seneca Rocks, located in the heart of the Monongahela National Forest, is a charming mountain town in West Virginia that draws outdoor enthusiasts from near and far. Its most iconic feature is the towering Seneca Rocks formation, which offers some of the best rock climbing opportunities on the East Coast . The town itself is small but welcoming, with cozy cabins, locally-owned shops, and delicious dining options to satisfy any craving after a day spent exploring the surrounding wilderness. Hiking trails abound in this area, providing ample opportunities to soak in stunning views of the Allegheny Mountains.

9. Helvetia: Little Switzerland of West Virginia

Helvetia is a hidden gem in the West Virginia mountains, known for its rich Swiss heritage and charming small-town atmosphere. Nestled in the Tygart Valley, this picturesque town offers stunning mountain views, pristine rivers for fishing and kayaking, and a peaceful retreat from city life. Helvetia is famous for its annual Fasnacht celebration, where locals dress up in traditional Swiss costumes and parade through the streets playing music and dancing. Visitors can explore the local museum to learn about the town’s history or enjoy delicious Swiss cuisine at the renowned Hutte Restaurant. With hiking trails, cozy bed and breakfasts, and friendly locals welcoming visitors with open arms, Helvetia is truly one of the best mountain towns in West Virginia for a relaxing getaway.

10. Cass: Step Back in Time with Cass Scenic Railroad

Nestled in the heart of the Allegheny Mountains, Cass is a quintessential West Virginia mountain town that exudes charm and character. Known for its historic Cass Scenic Railroad and stunning views of towering peaks, this little gem draws outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The town’s wooden storefronts and colorful buildings transport visitors back in time, while its proximity to Monongahela National Forest offers endless opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and other recreational activities. You can spend your days exploring the surrounding wilderness or meandering through quaint shops and eateries, soaking in the laid-back mountain atmosphere filled with the wonder of winter – untouched fallen snow, scrapes of skates along fresh ice, and snow-capped mountain views you have to see to believe.

11. Bramwell: The Millionaire Town

Nestled in the stunning Appalachian Mountains, Bramwell is a picturesque little town that perfectly embodies the charm and history of West Virginia. Known for its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture and quaint streets lined with colorful shops and cafes, Bramwell offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking a slower pace of life. The town is also famous for its rich coal mining heritage, which can be explored through visits to the historic homes of former coal barons. Outdoor enthusiasts will delight in the abundance of hiking trails, fishing spots, and scenic overlooks nearby. 

12. Shepherdstown: West Virginia’s Oldest Town

Shepherdstown is often considered one of the best mountain towns in West Virginia, and for good reason. With its charming historic downtown, picturesque views of the Potomac River, and proximity to both Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and the C&O Canal Towpath trail, Shepherdstown offers a perfect blend of outdoor recreation and small-town charm. The town is also known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues showcasing local talent. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, soak up some history on the historic loop, or simply relax and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, Shepherdstown has something for everyone. Plus, with an array of cozy bed and breakfasts and delicious dining options, this mountain town truly has all the makings of a perfect weekend getaway.

13. Buckhannon: Home of the Strawberry Festival

Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Buckhannon is a charming mountain town in West Virginia that offers visitors the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and small-town charm. With its picturesque Main Street lined with charming shops and restaurants, Buckhannon is the ideal place to explore at a leisurely pace. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping in nearby parks such as Audra State Park and Holly River State Park. And for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture, Buckhannon hosts annual events like the Strawberry Festival and Artistry on Main showcasing local artisans. 

14. Ripley: A Blend of Tradition and Community

Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Ripley is often considered one of the best mountain towns in West Virginia. Boasting a charming downtown area filled with quaint shops and local restaurants, this town offers visitors a true taste of small-town living. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Ripley’s proximity to several state parks and recreational areas, providing ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The stunning views of the surrounding mountains make it a picture-perfect destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.

15. White Sulphur Springs: Luxury at The Greenbrier

Located in the Allegheny Mountains, White Sulphur Springs is a charming mountain town in West Virginia known for its picturesque landscapes and rich history. The town is home to the famous Greenbrier Resort, a luxurious getaway destination that has been welcoming guests since 1778. In addition to its stunning natural beauty, White Sulphur Springs offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. The town also boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with galleries showcasing local artists and live music performances throughout the year.

16. Franklin: Scenic beauty

Set amidst the stunning Allegheny Mountains, Franklin, West Virginia is a hidden gem and one of the best mountain towns in the state. Known for its charming small-town atmosphere and outdoor adventures, Franklin offers a plethora of activities for nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re into hiking, fishing, or birdwatching, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. The town also boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with local galleries and shops showcasing the work of talented artisans. And when it comes to dining, Franklin doesn’t disappoint – from cozy cafes to family-owned restaurants serving up delicious Southern cuisine, there’s something here for every palate. So if you’re looking for a peaceful escape surrounded by natural beauty, look no further than Franklin!

17. Kingwood: Majesty Among the Mountains

Kingwood is an absolute gem of a mountain town nestled in the picturesque hills of West Virginia. With its charming small-town atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, it’s no wonder why it’s considered one of the best mountain towns in the state. Outdoor enthusiasts will be delighted with the plethora of activities available, from hiking along scenic trails to fishing in tranquil rivers and lakes. The town also boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with local art galleries, boutiques, and cozy cafes lining its quaint streets. And let’s not forget about the friendly locals who always greet you with a warm smile and a welcoming attitude. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or considering making Kingwood your new home, this charming mountain town truly has something special to offer for everyone.

18. Grafton: Trails and Tales of Tygart Lake

Grafton may be a small mountain town in West Virginia, but it packs a big punch when it comes to charm and outdoor activities. Situated along the Tygart Valley River, Grafton offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and cycling. The town is also home to historic sites like the Grafton National Cemetery and Mother’s Day Shrine, adding a touch of culture to its natural beauty. With cozy cafes, quaint shops, and friendly locals, Grafton has a laid-back vibe that makes visitors feel right at home. And don’t forget about the annual events like the Mountain State Forest Festival and Railroad Days that showcase the town’s unique heritage. So if you’re looking for a relaxing retreat in the mountains of West Virginia, Grafton is definitely worth a visit.

19. Marlinton: Gateway to the Monongahela National Forest

Marlinton, nestled in the stunning Allegheny Mountains, is a true hidden gem among West Virginia’s best mountain towns. With its charming Main Street lined with quaint shops and cafes, this town offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Marlinton, from hiking through pristine forests and fishing in crystal-clear streams to skiing at nearby Snowshoe Mountain Resort. The scenic Greenbrier River provides opportunities for kayaking and tubing, while the historic Cass Scenic Railroad offers a step back in time to the area’s rich lumbering history. Marlinton is located in Pocahontas County, which was ranked as the #8 hidden gem in the state.

20. Summersville: Lake Life and Rock Climbing

Summersville, nestled in the heart of West Virginia, is a charming mountain town known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The crystal-clear waters of Summersville Lake make it a haven for water sports enthusiasts, with activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming readily available. The nearby Gauley River offers some of the best white-water rafting in the state, drawing thrill-seekers from near and far. The town itself boasts quaint shops, cozy cafes, and friendly locals who are always willing to share their favorite hiking trails or hidden gems with visitors. Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and explore the wide open spaces of Summersville this summer, including a breathtaking waterfall hike and the opportunity to skate on fresh ice during the winter months.

Discover the hidden gems of West Virginia with these 20 picturesque mountain towns. From history to adventure, culture to luxury, there’s something for everyone. Plan your trip, immerse yourself in nature, and experience the beauty of these breathtaking destinations. Whether you’re a hiker, art enthusiast, or foodie, West Virginia’s mountain towns await your exploration. Share this guide on social media and inspire your friends to embark on their own mountain town adventure . Let the mountains call, and you must go!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit west virginia’s mountain towns.

The best time to visit West Virginia’s mountain towns depends on your interests. If you enjoy winter activities like skiing and snowboarding, visit during the winter months. For wildflower hikes and starry night skies, visit in the spring or summer. Fall offers vibrant foliage and fresh mountain air.

Are These Towns Suitable for Families?

Yes, these towns are suitable for families. They offer traditional comforts, kind stays, and plenty of family-friendly activities. The towns have ample room for kids to run around and explore, and they are known for their safe environments and friendly communities.

What Outdoor Activities Can I Enjoy in These Mountain Towns?

These mountain towns offer a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, skiing, and more. Enjoy scenic drives, hike to breathtaking waterfalls, and participate in plenty of riverside activities. These towns are known for some of the most spectacular outdoor recreation opportunities in the region.

How Do I Get Around in These Mountain Towns?

Getting around these mountain towns is easy. You can take a scenic mountain road trip, as most of the towns are within a short drive of each other. West Virginia offers beautiful stretches of road, and navigation is easy with the help of maps and GPS.

Can I Find Accommodations Easily in These Towns?

Yes, you can find accommodations easily in these towns. Whether you’re looking for an overnight stay at a luxury retreat, a rustic campsite, or a kind stay, there are plenty of options available. Accommodations are easy to find and cater to various preferences and budgets.

What Cultural Experiences Can I Expect?

In these mountain towns, you can expect a rich cultural experience. Explore the local history and cultural heritage through museums, historic landmarks, and guided tours. Immerse yourself in the vibrant small town atmosphere and discover the rich traditions that make these towns special.

Are There Opportunities for Wildlife Watching?

Yes, there are opportunities for wildlife watching in these mountain towns. With their lush forests, proximity to national and state parks, and natural habitats, you can spot a variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds, mammals, and other creatures that call these areas home.

What Are the Must-Visit Festivals in These Towns?

These towns host a variety of must-visit festivals throughout the year. From local festivals celebrating the town’s culture and heritage to music and festivals showcasing local talent, there’s always something happening. Experience traditional celebrations and community gatherings that bring the towns to life.

How Can I Learn More About the History of These Towns?

To learn more about the history of these towns, you can explore their local history through guided tours, visits to historic districts, educational tours, and historical landmarks. Immerse yourself in the rich history of these towns and gain a deeper understanding of their heritage.

Are West Virginia’s Mountain Towns Good for Relocation?

Yes, West Virginia’s mountain towns offer great opportunities for relocation. Recent studies have shown that West Virginia is one of the most affordable states to retire in the U.S. The towns offer a high quality of life, with a peaceful living environment and attractive median home values.

What Gastronomic Experiences Shouldn’t I Miss?

Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the local cuisine and gastronomic delights of these mountain towns. Experience unique dining experiences, savor traditional foods, and take culinary tours to discover the flavors and culinary traditions that make these towns special.

What Are Some Tips for First-Time Visitors?

For first-time visitors, it’s important to have some travel tips and essential advice to make the most of your visit. Make sure to gather visitor information, know the must-know details about the towns, and plan your travel accordingly. These tips will help you have a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Can I Explore These Towns on a Budget?

Yes, these towns offer budget-friendly options for exploring and enjoying your visit. From affordable accommodations to cost-effective travel options, you can plan your trip within your budget. Explore the economic stays and value experiences that these towns have to offer.

What part of West Virginia is the most mountainous?

The most mountainous part of West Virginia is the eastern panhandle. This region is characterized by high elevations, rugged terrain, and scenic mountains. It showcases the Appalachian beauty that the state is known for.

What towns are in the West Virginia Appalachian Mountains?

Several towns in West Virginia are located in the Appalachian Mountains. These mountain towns offer scenic locations, Appalachian heritage, and picturesque communities. Explore the beauty and charm of these towns nestled in the Appalachian Mountains .

What are the most picturesque mountain towns to visit in West Virginia?

West Virginia is home to several picturesque mountain towns. These towns offer stunning scenic beauty, charming small town vibes, and numerous photographic spots. Immerse yourself in the visual appeal and natural beauty of these picturesque mountain towns .

Which mountain town in West Virginia is known for its local cuisine and dining experiences?

When it comes to local cuisine and dining experiences, the mountain town of  Buckhannon  stands out. It offers a variety of foodie destinations, culinary hotspots, and a gastronomic culture that will satisfy any food lover’s cravings.

Are there any hidden gem mountain towns in West Virginia that are worth exploring?

Yes, West Virginia is home to several hidden gem mountain towns that are worth exploring. These undiscovered towns offer off-the-beaten-path experiences, secret spots, and unique discoveries. Venture off the tourist trail and uncover the hidden treasures of these mountain towns.

Which mountain town in West Virginia offers the best outdoor recreational activities?

For the best outdoor recreational activities, look no further than the mountain town of Fayetteville. It offers a wide range of outdoor adventure sports and is known for its recreational hotspots. Embrace an active lifestyle and enjoy the best outdoor activities in Fayetteville.

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19 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in West Virginia

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Apr 25, 2022

With some of the East Coast's most beautiful and rugged scenery, West Virginia is filled with year-round outdoor adventure opportunities. Its wild mountain country, densely-forested wilderness areas, and fast-running rivers are playgrounds for hiking, camping, caving, rock climbing, white water rafting, boating, and fishing. In the winter, ski resorts offer a range of snow sports .

Active travelers will never run out of things to do here. While many tourists come to the state for these outdoor activities and scenic landscapes, West Virginia offers much more in the way of tourist attractions, from the historic sights of Harpers Ferry and the elegant Greenbrier and its legendary golf courses to some very unusual attractions, including a penitentiary to tour.

You'll find plenty of vacation ideas with our list of the top tourist attractions in West Virginia.

1. Blackwater Falls State Park

2. monongahela national forest and seneca rocks, 3. the greenbrier, 4. ski & play at snowshoe, 5. berkeley springs, 6. new river gorge national river, 7. white water rafting, 8. harpers ferry, 9. west virginia penitentiary, 10. mothman museum and festival, 11. cass scenic railroad state park, 12. west virginia state museum at the culture center, 13. explore seneca caverns, 14. huntington museum of art & ritter park, 15. beckley exhibition coal mine, 16. grave creek burial mounds, 17. cathedral falls, 18. west virginia state capitol, 19. trans-allegheny lunatic asylum.

Named for the dark waters of the Blackwater River, colored by tannic acid from fallen hemlock and red spruce needles, Blackwater Falls drops 60 feet over sandstone ledges before the river continues to rush through an eight-mile-long gorge. Steps and viewing platforms make the falls accessible year-round.

Also popular places to visit in the park are Elakala Falls , which cascade down the wall of the canyon and can be reached by a short trail, and Pendleton Falls , easily seen from a roadside pull-off.

The view into the Blackwater Canyon from Lindy Point, one of the most beautiful places in West Virginia, is another park highlight, as is Pendleton Point Overlook, at the canyon's deepest point. The park has a boating lake, as well as swimming, fishing, and camping.

Address: 1584 Blackwater Lodge Road, Davis, West Virginia

Official site: http://www.blackwaterfalls.com/

With elevations ranging from around 1,000 feet to 4,863 feet above sea level, the Monongahela National Forest offers beautiful views, wildlife, and the highest point in the state. The variety of terrain and rainfall across its more than 900,000 acres gives it one of the most diverse forest ecosystems in the country, supporting more than 225 bird species; 75 species of trees; and 70 fish species, both game and non-game.

About 100,000 acres of the park are designated as the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area , offering some of the best traditional multi-pitch technical climbing on the east coast. Seneca Rocks is a distinctive 250-foot-deep formation of white and gray quartzite that stands almost 900 feet above the North Fork River. Some routes are moderate, but experts are challenged by the exposed summit pinnacle.

You don't need to be a climber to enjoy the park. Non-climbers can visit the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center, stay in the campgrounds at Seneca Shadows and Big Bend, go fishing, or hike and spot birds in the park's thousands of acres of wildlands.

Address: 200 Sycamore Street, Elkins, West Virginia

Official site: http://www.fs.usda.gov/mnf

The Greenbrier has earned its designation as a National Historic Landmark several times over. Located at White Sulphur Springs, which have been in use as a natural spa since the 1700s, the grand hotel has hosted 26 presidents, foreign dignitaries, and royalty, including Prince Rainier and Princess Grace of Monaco and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor.

But however grand and luxurious it is as a resort, it has played other historic roles, too. Early in World War II, it was used as a detention center for German and Japanese diplomats who were in the United States when war was declared. Later in the war, it was commandeered by the U.S. Army to use as a hospital, where nearly 25,000 patients were treated.

During the Cold War, an underground shelter was built to house the entire U.S. Congress in case of nuclear attack. This shelter, given the code name "Project Greek Island," was decommissioned in 1992 and is open to the public for tours, as is the Presidents' Cottage Museum, with exhibits about presidential visits and the history of the resort.

More than 50 different activities are available in the resort and in the 5,100-acre Greenbrier State Forest . Along with horseback riding, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, adventure courses, and a 40,000-square-foot spa, the resort has multiple golf courses (even an indoor one for winter) and a distinguished golf history as the venue for numerous championships.

Greenbrier State Forest offers cabins and campsites, swimming, fishing, bike trails and hiking - the 78-mile-long Greenbrier River Trail is a multi-purpose rail trail that is also used for cross-country skiing in the winter. A getaway in one of the centuries-old Legacy Cottages is one of the most romantic things to do in West Virginia.

Address: 300 W. Main Street, White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia

This year-round resort is best known for its skiing, with three separate areas to choose from, all with 100 percent snowmaking. With an 800-foot vertical drop, Snowshoe Basin's 38 trails cover all experience levels, served by seven lifts, including a high-speed detachable quad. Of Silver Creek 's 18 trails, 12 are open for night skiing.

The Western Territory Area's steep, rugged terrain has 1,500 feet of vertical drop, the most advanced terrain in the region. Steeps on Cupp Run, designed by legendary Olympian Jean-Claude Killy, and Shay's Revenge reach 52 percent pitch.

In other seasons, activities include mountain biking, scenic chairlift rides, geocaching, horseback riding, Segway tours, ziplining, trampolining, climbing, pedal boats, paddle boarding, canoeing, hiking, fishing, and golf at the Raven Golf Club. Not far away, in Greenbank, is the National Radio Astronomy Observatory .

Address: 10 Snowshoe Drive, Snowshoe, West Virginia

Official site: http://www.snowshoemtn.com

Read More: Best Ski Resorts in West Virginia

The bathhouse at Berkeley Springs State Park , in the center of Berkeley Springs, first opened in 1930, but long before that bathing in the warm and effervescent mineral waters was popular. George Washington was a regular visitor and even earlier, the springs' restorative and therapeutic properties brought Native Americans here from as far away as southern Canada.

Baths and treatments take advantage of the five main springs and several smaller ones, flowing at a rate of 2,000 gallons of clear, sparkling water per minute at a constant 74.3 degrees Fahrenheit.

Located in the center of the small town of Berkeley Springs, the state park facilities include the old-fashioned private bathing tubs, saunas, and massages at the Old Roman Bath Building and Main Bath House; elsewhere in town are more luxurious private spas with a range of health and beauty options.

Contrary to its name, New River is actually one of the oldest rivers on the continent. As it flows into West Virginia, it cuts through the Appalachian Plateau, forming the New River Gorge and plenty of white water for tubing, rafting, and canoeing. Other recreational opportunities are all around it: hiking, ziplining, hunting, fishing, bird-watching, camping, biking, and rock climbing.

One of the state's most photographed sights is the soaring New River Bridge , the longest steel span in the hemisphere and the nation's third highest, 876 feet above the canyon floor. The National Park Service maintains 70,000 acres of park lands along the river, and at Hawk's Nest State Park, you can ride an aerial tramway into the bottom of the New River Gorge, a prime spot for white water rafting.

South of New River Gorge National River at Bluestone State Park there is hiking, fishing, camping, and boating on the large lake behind the Bluestone Dam.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/neri/index.htm

It's no secret that West Virginia is one of the best places to go white water rafting. Several rivers offer world-class rapids for experts, and others are well-suited to less experienced and learning rafters. The most famous waters are in the Gauley River , between Summersville and Fayetteville, in the Gauley River National Recreation Area. Both the Gauley and New rivers are easily accessed from a base in nearby Babcock or Hawks Nest state parks .

Here, the 25-mile river flows at high speed through gorges and valleys, providing the thrill of a lifetime to experienced rafters; it's no wonder the Class V rapids are nicknamed the "Beast of the East."

Fall is the time to find the most challenging flow, but at any time it's a good idea to hire an experienced guide who knows the river and its quirks and can help you find the places that are best suited to your own experience level. Although it's known for its Class V rapids the Gauley has some stretches of Class III that are suitable for intermediate levels.

For those with less experience, the Tygart River, Cheat River, and Potomac River are good options, as is the Upper New River, which has good stretches for beginners. Lower New River has Class IV rapids that offer runs past the New River Gorge Bridge.

• Read More: Best White Water Rafting Rivers in West Virginia

The Shenandoah River meets the Potomac River at this small West Virginia town, which was the site of abolitionist John Brown's raid on the United States arsenal in 1859, an event that hastened the onset of the Civil War.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park has museums, historical exhibits, and programs, plus about 20 miles of hiking trails. You can explore the rocks where the rivers meet and walk up to St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church and the old cemetery on the hill behind it.

Also in Harpers Ferry is the Appalachian Trail Visitors Center , from which you can take a hike on the Appalachian Trail for views of the town and rivers. Local outfitters offer tubing excursions in the river.

One of the most unlikely places to visit in any state, the West Virginia Penitentiary welcomes guests from April through November to tour the grim prison that sometimes held more than 1,000 prisoners at a time. The forbidding Gothic fortress opened in 1876, and the last prisoner left in 1995. Between those dates it was the scene of fires, escapes, prison riots, and almost 100 executions.

Visitors can tour the building and its claustrophobia-inducing five-foot by seven-foot cells during the day, or explore the reportedly haunted location at night. The penitentiary is a popular place for paranormal researchers looking for evidence of spectral phenomena.

Address: 818 Jefferson Ave, Moundsville, West Virginia

Official site: http://www.wvpentours.com

In 1966, reports of lights in the sky and a strange flying figure began circulating in Point Pleasant, West Virginia. The figure was variously described, but most reported a winged human figure dressed in black, with red eyes. From there arose the local legend of Mothman.

Pop culture took up the myth as the story spread (there's even an exhibit on Mothman at the International Cryptozoology Museum in Portland, Maine) and the town turned the legend into a museum, a statue, and a Mothman Festival . The popular free event is held on the third weekend in September and features costumes, activities, and vendors selling souvenirs depicting a bat-like cartoon Mothman.

Address: 400 Main Street, Point Pleasant, West Virginia

Official site: www.mothmanmuseum.com

At the Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, you can relive the Golden Age of Steam on a line built in 1901 to haul lumber from the forest to the mill, riding in refurbished logging flat-cars pulled by an original Shay steam locomotive. The full 4.5-hour trip includes switchbacks that allow the train to climb grades as high as 11 percent to reach Bald Knob. At an altitude of 4,700 feet, this is West Virginia's third highest point , overlooking spectacular views.

At Whittaker Station, a 1940s logging camp has been recreated, with the living quarters and the equipment. At the base, you can tour a museum and the depot and see restored company houses that can be rented for overnight stays. On the train ride, be prepared for noise, black smoke, and chilly temperatures at Bald Knob.

Official site: www.cassrailroad.com

Among the free things to do in West Virginia is touring the West Virginia State Museum in Charleston to learn about the state's culture, history, art, paleontology, archaeology, and geology. One of the most popular of its 60,000 artifacts is a pair of dressed fleas from a 19th-century flea circus .

Well-designed exhibits of a more serious nature literally follow a path through the state's history, beginning with stone and dirt and ending in a paved highway. As visitors progress from room to room through the centuries, audio features augment exhibits and films.

Artifacts include everyday implements and items such as a telescope that George Washington used to survey land in West Virginia. In one section, you'll learn more about John Brown's raid at Harpers Ferry, and elsewhere is an original settler's cabin reconstructed in the museum.

Address: 1900 Kanawha Blvd E, Charleston, West Virginia

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Charleston, West Virginia

The formation of Seneca Caverns began 460 million years ago, when the cavern's limestone bed first formed. The native Seneca people are thought to have used the caves for shelter beginning in the early 1400s.

The caverns were later found by a local farmer, Laven Teter, while looking for water for his livestock, and the largest chamber, rising to 60 feet in places, is named Teter Hall in his memory.

You can visit these on one-hour guided tours that descend to 165 feet below the entrance. Pathways are well-lit, and cement steps with handrails help visitors navigate deeper into the caverns. The separate Stratosphere Cave is on the same property.

Address: 3328 Germany Valley Road, Riverton, West Virginia

Official site: http://www.senecacaverns.com

In addition to its 10 exhibition spaces, the Huntington Museum of Art maintains an interactive education gallery, a 287-seat auditorium, a conservatory for tropical and subtropical plants, a coral reef aquarium, two outdoor sculpture gardens, and two miles of hiking and nature trails. A quarter-mile paved accessible Sensory Trail is designed for the visually impaired.

Outstanding in its permanent collections of more than 16,000 objects are 4,000 pieces of glassware and the Touma Near Eastern Gallery, encompassing art from the Middle East, Ottoman Turkey, Central Asia, the Indian sub-continent, North Africa, and Moorish Spain.

Highlighting the Ritter Park Historic District is a 75-acre park with a walking, jogging, and biking trail and a garden of more than 3,000 roses that is considered one of the best rose gardens in America .

Address: 2033 McCoy Road, Huntington, West Virginia

Official site: https://www.hmoa.org

Coal mining is central to both the history and economy of West Virginia, especially in the region around Beckley. You can tour one of these mines, going deep underground in a cart that once carried the miners to work daily. Guided by a miner who tells about the work here, the tour gives you a feel for the lives of those who spent their daylight hours in these dark passages.

A recreated coal camp with the Coal Company House, superintendent's house, a church, and the school depict an early 20 th -century coal camp. The adjacent Mountain Homestead recreates a 19 th -century Appalachian frontier settlement, with a log home, barn, blacksmith shop, one-room schoolhouse, and general store. A Youth Museum has changing interactive exhibits.

Address: Ewart Ave., Beckley, West Virginia

Official site: https://beckley.org/coal-mine/

One of the free things to do in West Virginia, and one of its secret places, is also one of the most intriguing, a glimpse into a culture that thrived here 2,000 years ago. Grave Creek Archaeological Complex , near Wheeling, centers on the largest known burial mounds of the Adena people, built about 250-150 BC.

These mounds, as high as 62 feet and nearly 250 feet at the base, required moving more than 60,000 tons of earth, creating the largest conical type structure of any of the mound-building cultures.

The Delf Norona Museum on the site displays some of the nearly 450,000 artifacts found in the multi-level burial site and elsewhere in the area. The exhibits illuminate the lives of these prehistoric people and the construction of the mounds.

Address: 801 Jefferson Avenue, Moundsville, West Virginia

Cane Brook joins New River a short distance east of Gauley Bridge, but before it does, the stream drops more than 100 feet from the mountains above. The lower 60 feet of its plunge are visible from a roadside stop on Route 60.

The water cascades down a canyon it has cut through the forested mountainside, dropping in a long series, splashing into a veil of foam at each successive level as it falls over the sandstone ledges. The waterfall, with its setting amid overhanging foliage, is a favorite for photographers, especially in the fall when the hardwoods are in their autumn colors.

Along with being one of the most beautiful waterfalls in West Virginia , Cathedral Falls is also the most accessible, with a roadside viewing area.

Location: Route 60, Gauley Bridge, West Virginia

Five feet higher than the dome of the US Capitol Building in Washington, D.C., the 293-foot golden dome at the State Capitol in Charleston reflects Greek and Roman architectural influences. It was designed by Cass Gilbert, who also designed the Woolworth Building in New York City, the world's tallest building when it was constructed.

During the building process, from 1924 to 1932, more than 700 train carloads of Indiana limestone were used. White marble from Vermont and Italian travertine sheath much of its interior, which you can tour daily.

As unconventional a tourist attraction as the West Virginia Penitentiary, the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum is a landmark in the history of treatment for the mentally ill. Constructed between 1858 and 1881, the asylum is the largest hand-cut stone masonry building in the hemisphere, and in the world it is exceeded only by the Kremlin in Moscow.

It was designed by the architect Richard Andrews, who arranged the long rambling wings in a staggered formation, so that each of the connecting structures received as much therapeutic sunlight and fresh air as possible.

Tours highlight a number of historical themes, including architecture, Civil War raids, treatment of the mentally ill, even the facility's agricultural history and place in the local community. Like the West Virginia Penitentiary, the asylum has also been a research location for paranormal investigators .

Official site: http://trans-alleghenylunaticasylum.com

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More on West Virginia: For a luxurious and relaxing vacation, consider staying at one of the top resorts in West Virginia or enjoying some of the state's many outdoor attractions . If you have time to tack on one more stop during your trip, consider visiting the attractions of Charleston, West Virginia .

Where to Go Next: Bordering West Virginia on the east and south, the historic state of Virginia is scattered with charming small towns and other places for relaxing weekend getaways .

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19 surprisingly cool things to do in west virginia.

From the newest national park in the U.S. to the Mothman Museum, West Virginia is increasingly intriguing.

The Top Things to Do in West Virginia

Courtesy of West Virginia Department of Tourism

"Almost Heaven, West Virginia."

The state that inspired John Denver's now-classic American anthem, does, in fact, feel a bit like Heaven (or at least what we imagine it to be). Yet it isn't a destination at top of many bucket lists, if it even has a place on those lists at all. It's time to change your mind.

Read on to discover the top things to do in West Virginia.

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve: Glen Jean

Getty Images

If there's only one place you can visit in West Virginia, let it be New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Born out of a COVID-19 relief bill, New River Gorge became the nation's 63rd national park in December 2020. The area – which spans more than 70,000 acres – has long been a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Its 53-mile stretch of the New River (ironically one of the oldest rivers in the world) is famous for whitewater rafting, with beginner- and family-friendly tours and rapids up to Class V, widely considered some of the most challenging to navigate.

Of course, the park also offers other ways to take in its otherworldly landscape – think scenic driving routes, hiking, biking, climbing, fishing and free ranger-led activities including junior ranger programs. Accommodation options inside the park are limited to camping, but there are plenty of hotels and resorts within a short drive.

Bridge Walk: Lansing

Whatever you do in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, don't miss the one-of-a-kind Bridge Walk, where guided tours are offered on a catwalk beneath the famous New River Gorge Bridge. The bridge towers 876 feet above the New River, but don't worry – guests are securely fastened to a cable, and tours move at a relaxed pace so you can feel comfortable (and stop for scenic views and photo ops along the way). Previous visitors say the Bridge Walk is a must in West Virginia, with some calling it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Participants must be at least 8 years old.

If you're feeling extra brave after mastering this walkway, you can even come back for Bridge Day, West Virginia's largest single-day festival, where thousands gather every October to watch daredevils jump off the bridge into the gorge below.

Address: 57 County Route 85/9, Lansing, WV 25862

Hatfield-McCoy Trails

The infamously bizarre Hatfield-McCoy Feud that lasted nearly 30 years (and even inspired a dinner show in Pigeon Forge ) actually took place in West Virginia and Kentucky. Today, the region in which the feud took place is now the largest trail system on the East Coast, with 1,000 miles of wooded pathways, rolling hills and quintessential Appalachian towns to explore.

Waterfall Trail

In June 2022, West Virginia launched a statewide Waterfall Trail, allowing travelers to more easily navigate some of the state's 200-plus waterfalls with a free mobile passport – plus the chance to win prizes along the way. As of 2023, there are 38 trail stops in total. These include the famous Blackwater Falls, where the tannic acid of fallen hemlock and red spruce needles tints the water. Not surprisingly, it's one of West Virginia's most photographed destinations.

Read: The Best Places to Hike in the U.S.

Watoga State Park

Watoga State Park was named a Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association in 2021, along with the adjacent Calvin Price State Forest and nearby Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park. Travelers who want to catch a glimpse of the nighttime light show can opt for tent camping or cabin accommodations, spring through fall.

Address: 4800 Watoga Park Road, Marlinton, WV 24954

Adventures on the Gorge: Lansing

Courtesy of Adventures on the Gorge

The ultimate experience in West Virginia, Adventures on the Gorge, is an award-winning adventure outfitter and resort on the rim of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. The destination resort offers a dizzying array of outdoor activities, the most popular of which is whitewater rafting. Travelers rave about the half- and multi-day excursions for various skill levels, noting that the guides are friendly, helpful and all-around great. Adventure seekers can also enjoy zip lining and canopy tours (including a nighttime MoonTrek), rappelling, mountain biking, guided hikes, horseback riding, cave tours, laser tag and paintball. On Summersville Lake (the largest in West Virginia), there's kayaking, standup paddleboarding and multi-sport excursions that include a little bit of everything.

After an action-packed day, visitors can grab a bite to eat at any of the three on-site restaurants and retreat to their choice of accommodations, which include everything from cozy cabins to glamping tents with views of the New River Gorge Bridge and surrounding forest.

Address: 219 County Route 60/5, Lansing, WV 25862

The Greenbrier: White Sulphur Springs

Courtesy of Greenbrier County CVB

A National Historic Landmark, The Greenbrier served as a hospital for wounded soldiers during the Civil War and World War II. In 1778, it became "America's Resort," first hosting wealthy Southerners, then celebrities, U.S. presidents and even royalty. You don't have to be a guest of the luxury resort (or an A-lister) to get a glimpse of it – guided hotel tours are offered – but overnight guests enjoy upscale accommodations ranging from signature guest rooms to estate homes, a roster of activities for all ages, golf, a spa, restaurants, a casino, retail shops, seasonal events and more. Whether you splurge for an overnight stay or not, don't miss the Bunker Tour, where you'll discover a former emergency fallout shelter and top-secret government relocation facility for Congress from the Cold War period.

Address: 101 W. Main St., White Sulphur Springs, WV 24986

Lost World Caverns: Lewisburg

Go 120 feet underground to explore stalagmites (some of which measure up to 80 feet tall) and stalactites at Lost World Caverns. Self-guided tours typically take about 45 minutes and are appropriate for all ages, while the Wild Cave Tour for ages 10 and up takes visitors to undeveloped parts of the caverns over the course of several hours. This attraction, which was first discovered in 1942, also includes a museum and gift shop. Previous visitors highly recommend Lost World Caverns, cautioning that the caves can be slippery and difficult to traverse in some areas, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes and a light jacket .

Address: 907 Lost World Road, Lewisburg, WV 24901

Harpers Ferry

Perhaps the most well-known destination in West Virginia, Harpers Ferry is more than a quaint 19th-century town. It's a National Historic Park with Civil War sites including battlefields, remnants of campsites and, most notably, John Brown's Fort and the John Brown Museum. If you don't remember this one from history class, John Brown is the abolitionist credited with leading what's now known as the Harpers Ferry Raid, in which he attempted to start an armed revolt of enslaved people in 1859.

Harpers Ferry is also known as the psychological midpoint of the 2,178-mile Appalachian National Scenic Trail and, as such, attracts thru-hikers to the historic Lower Town's restaurants and nearby vacation rentals. Other highlights in Harper's Ferry include The Point, where you can see the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers; crossing the Potomac on a pedestrian bridge to access the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park towpath; and, better still, getting out on the waters in a river tube, cold drink in hand.

Read: The Best Places to Celebrate Black History Month

Berkeley Springs State Park: Berkeley Springs

Soak in the soothing springs of this state park, known for its warm waters, which maintain a comfortable temperature of 74.3 degrees Fahrenheit, and its bathhouses, where available spa services include massages and mineral baths. The springs date back centuries, first flourishing as a health mecca for Native Americans, then drawing European settlers beginning in 1730. Several years later, George Washington discovered the healing powers of the springs and began visiting them regularly. It is largely because of him that the place now known as Berkeley Springs State Park remains the popular wellness destination it is today. Visitors praise the park and surrounding town, noting that you can see the historic Berkeley Springs Castle (reserved for private events only) from here.

Address: 2 S. Washington St., Berkeley Springs, WV 25411

Mothman Museum: Point Pleasant

In 1966, two grave diggers in Clendenin, West Virginia, reported the sighting of a strange winged figure with red eyes. Shortly after the incident, local residents began to make similar claims, with many blaming the massive creature, nicknamed the Mothman, for the 1967 Silver Bridge collapse and subsequent death of 46 people. The story was so bizarre it captured the attention of Hollywood (resulting in "The Mothman Prophecies" movie, based on a book of the same name) and inspired the Mothman Museum in the town of Point Pleasant, where the mythical creature is said to reside. The museum features original newspaper clippings, handwritten police reports, props used in the 2002 film and more. The Mothman Statue stands 12 feet tall outside of the museum, and the Mothman Festival is hosted every September. Previous patrons of the museum say it's fun and interesting, and that admission – less than $5 for adults – is cheap.

After you explore this eerie museum, spend some time in Point Pleasant, an attraction in itself with great restaurants, shopping, seasonal events and the historic (and supposedly haunted) Lowe Hotel.

Address: 400 Main St., Point Pleasant, WV 25550

World's Largest Teapot: Chester

If you're road-tripping through West Virginia, consider making a stop at this quirky attraction, which measures 12 feet high and 44 feet wide. Before achieving fame, the "World's Largest Teapot" was created as a giant keg for Hires Root Beer and then installed as a snack stand at a mini-golf course in Pennsylvania. In 1938, a man named William "Babe" Devon brought it to Chester, West Virginia. He added a spout, lid and handle so he could use the newly revamped structure to promote the region's then-booming pottery industry, selling teapots and other souvenirs from its window. The teapot went out of business around 1980, was restored by the Chester City Council in 1990, and has sat at the junction of U.S. Route 30 and State Route 2 ever since.

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West Virginia Penitentiary: Moundsville

During its 100-plus years in operation, the West Virginia Penitentiary saw riots, homicides and executions including public hangings. So it's no surprise that when the storied prison decommissioned in 1995, former prison guards began offering tours to the public. Current tour options include a Public Ghost Hunt and Private Paranormal Investigations, as the prison is said to be haunted by former inmates. You can even try your hand at an escape room game. Previous visitors confirm the prison tours are all at once creepy, informative and enjoyable. The West Virginia Penitentiary is so spooky that it's been featured in Netflix's "Mindhunter" (along with the town of Moundsville) and Hulu's "Castle Rock," among other TV shows and movies.

Address: 818 Jefferson Ave., Moundsville, WV 26041

Read: Hauntingly Abandoned Places You Can Still Visit

West Virginia State Museum: Charleston

Located in the charming state capital of Charleston, the West Virginia State Museum features informative and interactive exhibits that pay homage to the culture and history of the Mountain State. Notable artifacts on display include a pair of Billy the Kid's leather chaps and the telescope George Washington used to survey the state's lands. Previous visitors say this Charleston museum is truly impressive, with some advising you'll need a few hours to see everything it has to offer. Bonus: As a state-operated attraction, the museum is free to enter. The West Virginia State Museum also manages a few historic sites throughout the state, including West Virginia Independence Hall and Camp Washington-Carver.

Address: 1900 Kanawha Blvd. E #435, Charleston, WV 25305

Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine: Beckley

Courtesy of Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine

A small, family-operated coal mine and camp from roughly 1890 to 1910 that later became a commercial endeavor until it closed in 1953, the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine is now a highly rated attraction in West Virginia. Previous visitors say both kids and adults enjoy exploring the former coal mines with veteran miners, who lead guided tours in authentic "man trips," the cars used in mining operations. When you emerge from the tunnels, explore the Coal Camp, with restored original buildings including the Pemberton Coal Camp Church and the Helen Coal Camp School, then stop by the Youth Museum of Southern West Virginia, which features a planetarium and a recreated homestead from the late 19th century. Admission includes the tour and access to the camp and museum. The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine is open from April to November, but bring a light jacket no matter when you visit as the mines can get chilly.

Address: 513 Ewart Ave., Beckley, WV 25801

Twin Falls Resort State Park: Mullens

Escape to Twin Falls Resort State Park, a destination resort with more than 25 miles of hiking and biking trails (where you can see the park's namesake waterfalls), an indoor swimming pool, an 18-hole golf course and a restaurant. Overnight lodging options include camping (tents or RVs), cabins and hotel rooms. The park also features a reconstructed pioneer homestead, where guests can learn about frontier life at the attraction's working farm and gardens. Recent guests have left positive reviews of the resort, commenting that it's both beautiful and clean.

Monongahela National Forest

Another nationally protected region in West Virginia, the Monongahela National Forest spans more than 919,000 acres in 10 counties over elevations that range from 1,000 to nearly 5,000 feet above sea level. Areas of interest include Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area, which features the highest peak in West Virginia, and the Dolly Sods Wilderness, notably the Bear Rocks trail. Both areas offer some of the best views in the state. Throughout the vast national forest there are ample hiking and biking trails, scenic driving routes, and places to stop for a picnic lunch. You can also go swimming, boating, fishing, horseback riding and, if you'd like to stay a few days, camping in tents, RVs or on-site cabins. A visit in the winter affords opportunities for snowmobiling, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

NROCKS Outdoor Adventures

With so much rugged mountain landscape, it's no surprise that West Virginia has a Via Ferrata (a mountain route with permanently installed steel rungs and cables). Located near the Monongahela National Forest, NROCKS Outdoor Adventures offers guided rock-climbing tours of the Via Ferrata. Participants aged 13 and up gain 1,085 feet in elevation, cross a suspension bridge that is 150 feet high and 200 feet long, and reach exposed heights of 280 feet during the roughly 1-mile trek, which takes about 3.5 hours. Recent tourgoers say the experience is thrilling, though not for the faint of heart. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, nighttime tours are offered on select dates throughout the year.

Address: 141 County Route 28/5, Circleville, WV 26804

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park: Cass

A remote destination in Pocahontas County, Cass was once a company town for loggers, who transported lumber via what's now known as the Cass Scenic Railroad. Climb aboard a historic steam-driven locomotive (operated by the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad) for a scenic ride to Bald Knob, the third-highest point in West Virginia. The train ride , which affords panoramic views of the Appalachians, lasts about 4.5 hours round trip and includes lunch. For those visiting Cass Scenic Railroad State Park with kids, previous visitors recommend the two-hour round trip to Whittaker Station, a former logging camp. Some travelers also suggest a visit in the fall to enjoy the colorful foliage . Within Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, visitors can explore the former lumbering town as well as a gift shop, restaurant, museum and theater. Overnight cabin accommodations are also available.

Address: 12363 Cass Road, Cass, WV 24927

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in West Virginia
• The Top Things to Do in Virginia
• The Most Romantic Getaways in Virginia
• The Top Things to Do in Ohio

Tags: Travel , US Vacations , Mid-Atlantic Vacations

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THE BEST West Virginia Mountains

Mountains in west virginia.

• State Parks
• Hiking Trails
• Nature & Wildlife Areas
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Allegheny Mountains

2. Ice Mountain

3. the mountain park.

10 places to go hiking in West Virginia

Editor’s Note: There are many more hiking trails to explore all over the Mountain State than those that appear on this list. This is a shortened list featuring 10 places across the state for visitors to enjoy the outdoors.

CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK) – The Mountain State is full of wild and wonderful places to enjoy the great outdoors on a hike.

Whether a beginner or an experienced hiker, there’s a trail in the state for everyone with a wide range of sites to see! From rolling hills and mountains, to waterfalls, wildflowers and majestic views, here are 10 places in West Virginia where you can try out the hiking trails.

Dolly Sods Wilderness:

Dolly Sods Wilderness boasts more than 17,000 acres of gorgeous landscapes with multiple hiking trails to enjoy! Located in the Monongahela National Forest, the Dolly Sods Wilderness is on a high altitude plateau and has unique landscapes compared to the rest of the Mountain State, with bogs and heath ecosystems you would be more likely to see in southern Canada.

With 47 miles of trails, Dolly Sods has plenty to explore. There are a couple restrictions , however. According to the USDA Forest Service website , groups visiting Dolly Sods Wilderness cannot exceed 10 people.

Visitors to Dolly Sods are also urged to stay on the existing trails and campsites and not to create new ones. This is because, starting in 1943, the area was used for mountain maneuver training during World War II, and some artillery and mortar shells shot into the area for practice may still exist and may be live. A crew did find 15 in 1997, exploding the live ones on site, but officials say there still could be some in the area.

For more on the trails at Dolly Sods, visit the USDA Forest Service website

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New river gorge.

The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve has plenty of trail systems for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike!

The trails in the New River Gorge area offer a variety of adventures, from exploring the natural beauty around Fayette County, such as the Fayetteville Trail, and stunning views of the Gorge and New River, such as the Long Point Trail and the Endless Wall Trail, to trails leading to ghost towns and old mining sites for the history fans, such as the Kaymoor Miners Trail.

For more information on the trails around the New River Gorge, as well as other activities for the family to enjoy in the area, visit the New River Gorge website or the National Park Service website.

Seneca Rocks

Seneca Rocks is one of the most recognizable landmarks in West Virginia and is well known for its rock climbing opportunities and mountain views. However, the rocks also have trails for nature lovers looking for a less rigorous outdoor adventures. The trail is 2.6 miles round-trip with steps and switchbacks, gaining 700 feet in elevation. The trail starts at the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center.

While the trail can be steep in places, visitors of all ages can enjoy the trip! Along with breathtaking views of the area, hikers may also have the opportunity to spot large birds of prey, including bald eagles, flying near the North Fork River.

To learn more about Seneca Rocks ‘ hiking trails and other activities, check out the USDA Forest Service website.

For additional outdoor fun, Seneca Caverns is located just down the road from Seneca Rocks, and families can take a one-hour guided tour through the well-lit paths of the caverns. For more on the caverns, visit their website.

Kanawha State Forest

There are more than 60 miles of trails throughout the Kanawha State Forest. The 14 walking trails range from easy hikes that anyone can enjoy such as the CCC Snipe Trail, to more strenuous routes for the experienced hiker, such as the moderate to difficult Overlook Rock Trail. Kanawha State Forest also has the paved Spotted Salamander Trail, which is wheelchair accessible and offers braille interpretive nature stations.

The park also has nine additional trails where biking is permitted that range from an easy to difficult ride.

Hiking isn’t all the Kanawha State Forest has to offer, from playgrounds and picnic areas for the whole family to shooting ranges, fishing and biking.

To learn more about the Kanawha State Forest’s trails and other activities, visit the West Virginia State Parks’ website.

Chief Logan State Park

Chief Logan State Park is located in Logan County, West Virginia, near the trailhead of the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System. While the Hatfield-McCoy Trails may be for ATVs, Chief Logan State Park has hiking trails for those who prefer exploring the great outdoors on foot.

The park includes 12 trails ranging from easy, such as the Cliffside Trail, to difficult, such as the six-mile Wilderness Trail. The park office also has maps for hikers to pick up before they hit the trails.

Along with the hiking trails, the 4,000-acre Chief Logan State Park also includes camping, lodging, conference facilities, as well as fishing, shooting and archery ranges, game courts and even mini golf! The park also boasts a regional interest and history museum featuring the culture and history of Logan County, including Chief Logan himself.

For more on Chief Logan State Park, visit the West Virginia State Parks’ website.

Beech Fork State Park

Located in Cabell County roughly 12 miles outside of Huntington and Barboursville, Beech Fork State Park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including hiking trails!

The park includes eight trails ranging from easy to hard levels that hikers and bikers alike can enjoy. Easier trails include the Nature Trail and Physical Fitness Trail, while others such as the Coal Mine Trail and North Ridge Trail, can be a bit more difficult to explore.

Beech Fork State Park also includes opportunities for boating and fishing around the 720-acre lake as well as a swimming pool, conference space and disc golf, with golfing and hunting activities located not too far outside of the park.

For more information on Beech Fork State Park, visit the West Virginia State Parks’ website.

Twin Falls Resort State Park

Twin Falls Resort in Wyoming County features more than 25 miles of trails for hiking and biking in the great outdoors.

The 13 trails range in difficulty from easy, such as the Hemlock Trail, to difficult, such as the “moderate to difficult” Cliffside trail. Most of the trails at Twin Falls are listed as having a “moderate” difficulty level, such as the Falls Trail, which starts out on a path to Marsh Fork Falls and loops around to Black Fork Falls.

The park includes a lodge, cabins and camping sites, as well as a variety of additional outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy such as golf, picnic areas, playgrounds, tennis, volleyball and an outdoor amphitheater for special events. The park also includes a Pioneer Farm, to give visitors a glimpse of back in time at life on the frontier.

You can find more information on the park on the West Virginia State Parks website or the West Virginia Tourism website.

Hawks Nest State Park

Best known for its scenic overlook of the New River Gorge, Hawks Nest State Park also includes approximately eight miles of hiking trails for nature lovers to enjoy.

The trail system includes four easy-level trails, two moderate-level trails, and two trails listed as “moderate to difficult.” The park is also not far from the trail systems at New River Gorge.

Some additional attractions at Hawks Nest include boating, fishing, a seasonal swimming pool as well as nearby golfing, rafting and historical sites. The park also includes a lodge and “Tentrr” campsites for visitors to enjoy.

You can learn more about Hawks Nest State Park at the West Virginia State Parks website.

Tomlinson Run State Park

Situated near the tip of the Northern Panhandle on the outskirts of New Manchester, West Virginia, Tomlinson Run State Park has a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including six hiking trails with different difficulty levels.

Visitors can also enjoy picnics, disc golf, a swimming pool, volleyball courts, as well as boating that includes rowboat, kayak and paddleboat rentals. If you plan on staying more than one day, the park has camping sites, cabins and even yurts to stay in.

For more information on Tomlinson Run State Park, visit the West Virginia State Parks website.

Cacapon Resort State Park

Cacapon State Park is situated in a folded mountain ridge near Berkeley Springs in Morgan County, West Virginia. The park includes nine trails spanning a total of 23 miles for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.

The trails range from easy to moderate difficulty levels, some of which create a loop in the park. There are also hiking guides available at the park’s office.

The park includes cabins, a lodge and “Tentrr” campsites for those who wish to stay for more than one day. There are also opportunities to go fishing, biking, golfing, swimming, and even horseback riding at the park.

For more information on all of the hiking and activities at Cacapon Resort State Park, visit the West Virginia State Parks website.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOWK 13 News.

• May 21, 2023
• 12 min read

Mountain Getaways in West Virginia: A Visit to the Hatfield-McCoy Region

Updated: Apr 22

If unparalleled outdoor adventures and rich cultural experiences feel like “home” to you, you’ll want those country roads to take you right to the Hatfield-McCoy Region of West Virginia!

Tucked away in Southern West Virginia near the border of Kentucky, this beautiful region of Appalachia was named for the infamous Hatfield-McCoy feud. 

This post is sponsored by West Virginia Department of Tourism , Hatfield McCoy CVB and Hatfield McCoy Trails .

Now, it is home to the Hatfield-McCoy Trails –  an expansive off-road system that draws thousands of visitors every year. There's so much more to this area beyond the trails, though. The rugged landscapes of the Appalachian mountains, rich history and culture, charming mountain towns, and hospitable people make this area of Southern West Virginia one of the most underrated travel destinations in the United States. In fact, it’s one of the best places in the U.S. for a weekend getaway!

The more I visit the Mountain State, the more it feels like home! If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience packed with outdoor adventures, the Hatfield-McCoy Region of West Virginia needs to be on your travel bucket list! There's plenty to enjoy in every season, but I especially recommend a spring, summer or fall getaway.

This post is sponsored by the West Virginia Department of Tourism , Hatfield McCoy CVB  and Hatfield McCoy Trails .

What To Expect in This Travel Guide

This post will cover the best outdoor activities, historical sites, charming small towns, scenic drives, where to stay, and where to eat and drink. Furthermore, what you read below will help you plan the perfect trip to the Hatfield-McCoy Region including recommendations for lodging options, local activities, secluded cabins, and much more.

And the best part, is that most main attractions are within a short drive from one another! I'll give you all my best tips and honest thoughts about our experiences along the way, to help you plan the ultimate getaway for anyone from small groups, to larger groups, to couples, and even solo travelers! 

Let’s get to it!

Mountain Getaways in West Virginia: What to See and Do in the Hatfield McCoy Region

Scratch Your Outdoor Adventure Itch on the Hatfield-McCoy Trails

It’s always a perfect time to visit the Hatfield-McCoy region. However, no visit to Southern West Virginia is complete without riding the Hatfield-McCoy Trails! They’re truly the crown jewel of the area for riders of ATV/UTVs, dirt bikes, and side by sides. Taking an ATV tour is the perfect way to view the beauty of the West Virginia mountains.

This off-road trail system stretches over 1,000 miles across several counties of Southern WV. Made up of 10 different trail systems, there’s something for riders of all skill and experience levels to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking tight twisting turns, or wide easy paths, it’s the perfect place to become one with nature, and every trail system has its own personality and beautiful scenic views! The surrounding towns around the trails are "ATV-friendly," so it's easy for visitors to get to and from their lodging, as well as find food, gas, and supplies. 

We rode the Rockhouse Trails , the largest of the ten trail systems, and loved it! This trail system is over 100 miles with direct access to the towns of Gilbert & Man. It has several different trails with a variety of difficulty levels. With the lush green scenery, scenic overlooks, and hidden waterfalls, we didn't want to stop! Visit the Hatfield McCoy Regional Recreation Authority website  for full descriptions and difficulty levels for each trail system to help plan your visit.

Quick Tip: Riders must purchase a permit  to access the trails. You can do this at one of several locations, and it is valid for the entire calendar year, so you can visit more than once! The trails are open to riders from just before sunrise to just after sunset. Be sure to read the full list of rules and regulations before you go! Don't have your own machine? No problem! There are several places you can rent from.

Step Back in Time as You Explore Historical Sites from the Mine Wars and Hatfield-McCoy Feud

Even if you aren’t a history buff, you can’t help but be enthralled by the history of the Hatfield-McCoy Region! I'll venture to guess you're aware of the 135-year old feud between the Hatfields of West Virginia and the McCoys of Kentucky. My own knowledge ended there, as anything I learned in school had long since faded away. What I was able to experience in just a few days visiting the area taught me more than a textbook ever could!

Learn a Little Bit of West Virginia History

Separated by the Tug Fork River, the lead figures in the infamous Hatfield-McCoy feud were Devil Anse Hatfield and Randall McCoy. While legend has it the feud was started over a hog, the locals will tell you this is a common misconception. It actually goes back to the Civil War when Asa McCoy (one of the only members from either family to fight for the Union Army) was murdered at the hands of Confederate soldiers from a WV group called the Logan Wildcats. While Devil Anse Hatfield was a suspect, it was determined that his uncle Jim Vance most likely did the killing. The dispute over ownership of a hog wouldn’t occur until 13 years later in 1878. 

Another well-known event that only escalated the feud was the forbidden relationship between Roseanna McCoy and Devil Anse's son Johnson, or "Johnse" Hatfield. This love story ended tragically with Roseanna passing away from a broken heart at just 28 years old. 

Visitors to the Hatfield-McCoy Region can almost step back in time with how well these historical events have been preserved and retold. I don’t want to give away too much, just enough to pique your interest and impress the locals with your knowledge!

Visit the Historic Town of Matewan, WV

Home to several key events in the Hatfield-McCoy feud, the town of Matewan, WV is also steeped in the history of coal miners as they fought for unionization. Every building and street corner has a story to tell, but there are a few key activities I recommend for an incredible experience.

Explore the Mine Wars  Museum

Located at the site of the largest armed uprising in the U.S. (besides the Civil War), this independent people’s museum walks visitors through the events of the Mine Wars Era. It’s a powerful display of what coal camps were like in Central Appalachia and the struggles of mine workers and their families as they fought for better wages and living conditions. Many of the key events were startling and critical to achieving the freedoms we have today. The museum’s Executive Director, Mackenzie New-Walker, really enhanced our experience by walking us through and immersing us in the displays. She brought history to life through her passion for keeping these stories alive! I have to admit, I’m not always the biggest fan of museums, but I really enjoyed this one.

Visit the Site of the Matewan Massacre

Across the street from the Mine Wars museum lies the site of the 1920 Matewan Massacre- the deadliest shootout in American History. The shootout occurred between local coal miners fighting to unionize and members of the Baldwin-Felts Detective Agency (basically the goon squad hired by the wealthy coal companies). Ten people were killed in total, including the mayor. Today, you can still see bullets lodged in the wall of the old post office. I’m more of a “hands-on”learner myself, and being able to physically stand where something so terrible took place and physically touch what remains was a next level experience! If that wasn't enough, a living descendant of the Baldwin family just so happened to be sitting on a bench outside and personally recounted the story for us.

Take an Airboat Tour Down the Scenic Tug River

It’s a big jump from a museum, I know, but this historical outdoor adventure via Hatfield McCoy Airboat Tour s is the best way to experience both the beauty AND the history of Matewan. In addition to beautiful landscapes, you’ll ride by several key locations from the Hatfield-McCoy feud, including Roseanna McCoy’s last homestead and the pawpaw tree incident where three McCoy boys were murdered by Devil Anse Hatfield. They were hung from trees in Kentucky and shot at from across the river in West Virginia.

Tours are run by Keith Gibson- a local resident with deep knowledge of the area. His story-telling is sure to captivate you! Even if you aren't about the history, surely you can appreciate the natural landscapes and wildlife!

Visit the New Hatfield Homestead Museum and the Hatfield Cemetery

Yet another place where the Hatfield & McCoy family history comes alive, the Hatfield Homestead Museum  is located at Devil Anse’s last known homestead and operated by Jack Hatfield- Devil Anse Hatfield’s great grandson! The museum showcases several amazing artifacts from the 1800’s and beyond. You can see where the Hatfields made their moonshine in secret and where Devil Anse kept not only his favorite horse, but his three pet black bears! Many family heirlooms are on display and artifacts continue to be dug up on the property to this day. 

Just down the street from Devil Anse’s last homestead (now the Hatfield Homestead Museum), lies the Hatfield Cemetery. This is Devil Anse’s final resting place, along with other members of the Hatfield family. Walking amongst the headstones is eerie, but makes you feel even more connected to this family and their iconic history. It’s especially beautiful to visit during the fall season!

Marvel at the Coalfield Jamboree Theatre in Historic Downtown Logan, WV

Originally opened in 1938 as the New Logan Theatre, this cinema remains a town treasure. It was the finest theatre and the first to be built in West Virginia with air conditioning! Now, it offers visitors a unique experience to take in the cultural heritage of the area and celebrate local talent. We had the pleasure of attending a special event put on by the Logan County Chamber of Commerce called "Rolling Through the Decades."

The event was Gatsby-themed and offered a chance to sample local food, meet amazing people, dance and laugh the night away. We watched talented local re-enactors play famous figures from Logan like Devil Anse Hatfield, professional boxer Jack Dempsey, and jazz singer Landau Eugene Murphy Jr. (winner of America's Got Talent in 2011). We witnessed local legends of the community receive honors for their incredible impacts, and we heard about the amazing things people are doing to better the county while also preserving its rich history and culture. The theatre is beautiful and a must-do activity while in Logan!

Hike Amongst the Rugged Natural Landscapes of the Appalachians on a Variety of Hiking Trails

Chief Logan State Park

As an avid hiker, no trip is complete without exploring the local hiking trails. If you’re a lover of the outdoors like we are and want to explore West Virginia’s State Parks, My husband and I really enjoyed the hiking in Chief Logan State Park . Covering 4,000 acres with 18 miles of trails, a fishing pond, and a museum, Chief Logan has something for everyone. All of the trails are scenic and range in length and difficulty. We enjoyed the Guyandotte Beauty Trail, as it was incredibly green and full of wildflowers, but it definitely lived up to its difficulty level of "hard" due to the steepness. There are other gentler trails that are mostly flat, and a fitness trail for those really looking for a workout. The Coal Mine trail offers the chance to see old mines, and the Lakeside Trail circles around the fishing pond. While most of the trails are short, you can combine many of them together for a longer day hike. I'd recommend getting a park map with each of the trails listed on it. You can read the descriptions and determine which trails are the best fit for you!

Not that into hiking? No worries! You can also bike, fish, horseback ride, swim, and visit the museum. There's also an old pioneer house along the fitness trail that I highly recommend seeing. There is a small pull-off along the road there. Just beyond the house is a beautiful bridge over the creek. 

Twin Falls State Park

About an hour from Logan in Wyoming County, WV is the popular spot of Twin Falls Resort State Park . If you have the time and enjoy chasing waterfalls through lush forests, I'd highly recommend visiting. It was directly on our route home to DC, so it was a no-brainer for us. 

Twin Falls features beautiful mountain views and 25 miles of hiking and biking trails. Two magical waterfalls can be accessed via a quick 2 mile (out and back) hike on the Falls Trail. This first is Marsh Fork Falls, and shortly beyond that is Black Fork Falls. There's a bit of a steep scramble down to Black Fork Falls, but you can walk behind this waterfall, so it is well worth it. The Falls Trails is Easy to Moderate with roughly 200 ft elevation gain.

Best Places to Eat and Drink in the Hatfield-McCoy Region

I did mention this entire area was historical, didn't I? Yes, even the restaurants! Not only that, the Hatfield-McCoy Region is secretly a foodie town. There are some insanely good cooks around, many of them still using treasured recipes from the early 1900's brought over from Europe.

There are so many restaurants here that are perfect for a romantic date night out or for a larger group of friends. Here are a few establishments I particularly enjoyed and highly recommend visiting on your trip! 

Nu Era Bakery (Logan, WV)

Established officially in 1940, Nu Era Bakery dates back to the 1920s and still uses the original recipes brought over from Italy! The original owner was well-known in town for her sweet treats and often shipped baked goods to the war camps for soldiers during WWII. I have to recommend the blueberry donut because it was amazing, but you really can’t go wrong with anything!

Hatfield McCoy Moonshine Distillery (Gilbert, WV)

After a day of riding, visit the Hatfield McCoy Moonshine Distillery  to sample some moonshine, whiskey, or bourbon. Run by a descendant of the family, the distillery is located on Hatfield land and still uses the recipe of the famous Devil Anse Hatfield. 

While everything here is good, the award-winning bourbon ranked at the top of my list! I'm a big bourbon fan, and this one lives up to the hype! The Distillery is also featured in the brand new Fox Nation reality show The Real Hatfields and McCoys: Forever Feuding.

Red Bird Cafe (Man, WV)

Red Bird Cafe  is a new addition to the Appalachian Outpost in Lyburn, WV. The cafe serves up delicious coffee beverages to meet your caffeine needs, and also doubles as an ice cream shop. I enjoyed a brown sugar cinnamon latte and sampled a few flavors of ice cream so I can attest that both are delicious! This is a great place to visit both before and after riding the Hatfield-McCoy Trails!

Trailhead Bar and Grill (Matewan, WV)

Rumor has it that when the trail riders would come off the trails, they always wanted to know where they could get a burger and a cold beer. Enter Trailhead Bar and Grill . It is indeed located right at the Matewan trailhead of the Hatfield-McCoy Trails and serves up cold beer in addition to a variety of burgers, sandwiches, and pretty much anything you can think of. If you’re into fries, I highly recommend the sweet potato fries with homemade caramel dipping sauce. Just be warned- it’s addicting!

Hillbilly Fire Pit (Man, WV)

If you love comfort food, Hillbilly Fire Pit  is definitely the place for you. Located in a beautiful setting along Buffalo Creek, it’s a tranquil spot for trail riders to grab a bite. The outdoor seating was designed specifically for people covered in mud! While you can pretty much order anything you can think of, people rave about the pizza, ribs, egg rolls, and more! I personally loved the Hamwhich (a play on an Italian sub, but in pizza form) and the Hillbilly Philly (a Philly cheese steak in the form of a pizza)! Isn't everything better when it's a pizza?

Four Seasons Country Store

This deli-style country store is a great to-go option featuring fresh, local items as well as made to order food. The BBQ is especially yummy, and you can’t go wrong with any of the baked goods! If you're in town for a while, consider stocking up on fresh fruits and veggies!

Parkway Restaurant & Drive In (Logan, WV)

Who doesn’t love a good drive in? They’re rare these days, so Parkway Restaurant and Drive In is a must when in Logan County. We really enjoyed dining in for breakfast. We had fresh, hot coffee, homemade sausage, biscuits, a pancake bigger than my face, and of course the most exception service! They’re also a popular lunch and dinner option.

Chirico’s Italian Restaurant in Logan

I didn’t realize the Italian presence in Southern WV until I arrived and personally experienced places like Chirico’s Italian Restaurant ! After hearing about the handmade dough, I was really tempted to try the calzone or the pepperoni rolls, but I was too drawn to the pizza-baked spaghetti. Let me tell you, the pasta here is out of this world. I also have to recommend you save room for dessert.

Where to Stay on Your Trip to the Hatfield-McCoy Mountains

Depending which trail systems you plan to ride/where you want to focus your trip, there are several places to post up that have modern conveniences that make for a comfortable stay. From hotels and rustic lodges to to cozy cabins in the area, there are plenty of options to choose from!

The newly built Appalachian Outpost  has 25 cabins and is convenient for trail riders. You can ride your machine right up to the front door and enjoy easy access to the Hatfield McCoy trails. They make for the perfect vacation rentals or cozy cabin getaway!

My husband and I stayed in the Chief Logan State Park Lodge  in Logan County and really enjoyed our time there! It's an ideal location near the Hatfield McCoy trails and not far from downtown Logan.

The Lodge is surrounded by mountains and has 75 rooms with modern amenities for guests like outdoor fire pits, a gazebo, and a restaurant. All of the staff were incredibly helpful and helped us navigate our way around the state park. It's no wonder this is one of the most visited facilities in the West Virginia State Parks System! You can also camp here or rent a newly built cabin. 

If you've made it this far, I hope you enjoyed this post and that you are now ready to plan the most epic trip to the Hatfield McCoy Mountains of West Virginia! I can't reiterate enough how amazing and what an underrated and beautiful place this destination is.

It’s the perfect location for history buffs, outdoor adventurers, and those wishing to take a family vacation, or spend quality time with friends or a special someone. As always, please do your best to respect the area and the local people in the places you visit. I'm certain you will receive a very warm welcome to Southern West Virginia.

Thank you for reading, and Happy Travels!

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Jasmine Vieau

Hello! I was born and raised in Toronto, lived in Miami for a decade, attended the Miami International University of Art & Design, and have resided in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, for the past 15+ years. I enjoy traveling all over the United States, Canada, and Europe - though I have a great appreciation and love for the southeastern parts of the US in particular. My past expertise lay in hospitality in the restaurant and retail world. Aside from writing, I now run an Airbnb in my home and sling vintage, so I'd like to think this all helps me with what it takes to find the best restaurants, lodging, and fun things to do and see in your state. I am an avid reader, love exploring the arts, and discovering the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants. Nice to meet you!

More by this Author

Are you looking for the best hikes in West Virginia? From rugged mountains to tranquil forests, these top-rated hiking trails offer an array of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you seek panoramic views, cascading waterfalls, or serene meadows, West Virginia’s hiking trails have it all. Discover natural wonders and create unforgettable memories as you explore these fantastic hiking destinations.

Best Hikes in West Virginia

Best short & easy hikes in west virginia, hardest hikes in west virginia, best waterfront hikes in west virginia, best winter hikes in west virginia, best hikes near charleston.

The best hikes in West Virginia include the Maryland Heights via Harper’s Ferry, the Maryland Heights Loop, and the Endless Wall Trail. These trails offer a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty, with panoramic views of Harper’s Ferry, stunning cliffs, and the majestic New River Gorge. Immerse yourself in the wonders of West Virginia’s top-rated hiking experiences.

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1. Maryland Heights via Harper's Ferry

• Location: Harpers Ferry
• Mileage: 4.5-mile out-and-back trail
• Difficulty: Moderate
• FYI: The popular Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is kid-friendly and is ideal for birding, hiking, and running. Expect to meet fellow enthusiasts along the trail, especially from March to October. Don't forget to bring your furry friends on a leash. Please note that there is an entry fee.

2. Maryland Heights Loop

• Mileage: 6.5-mile loop trail
• Difficulty: Hard
• FYI: Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is a popular area for birding, hiking, and running year-round. Leashed dogs are welcome, and there's an entrance fee to keep in mind.

3. Endless Wall Trail

• Location: Lansing
• Mileage: 3.2-mile loop trail
• Difficulty: Easy
• FYI: Popular for hiking and rock climbing, with dog-friendly trails (leash required) - exercise caution near cliffs.

Take a look at our picks of the best short and easy hikes in West Virginia, featuring the Long Point Trail, the Grandview Rim Trail leading to Turkey Spur Rock, and the Canyon Rim Overlook Boardwalk. These trails offer accessible and leisurely hikes with fantastic views and well-maintained pathways.

4. Long Point Trail

• Location: Fayetteville
• Mileage: 3.0-mile out-and-back trail
• FYI: Well-frequented for hiking and mountain biking, with dog-friendly trails (leash required). Best times to visit: April to November. Trailhead offers car parking and a vault toilet.

5. Grandview Rim Trail to Turkey Spur Rock

• Location: Prince
• Mileage: 3.1-mile out-and-back trail
• FYI: Buzzing with birding, hiking, and walking enthusiasts, this trail sees frequent visitors year-round. Ideal times to visit: March to October. Dogs allowed on a leash. Trailhead amenities include car parking, playground, picnic table, wheelchair-accessible bathroom, trash cans, and benches.

6. Canyon Rim Overlook Boardwalk

• Mileage: 0.5-mile out-and-back trail
• FYI: A hot spot for birding, hiking, and walking, expect to meet fellow explorers along the way. Leashed dogs are welcome. Amenities: Auto parking, accessible restroom, and trash receptacles.

Challenge yourself to some of the hardest hikes in West Virginia, featuring the challenging Allegheny Mountain Trail, the rugged North Fork Mountain Trail, and the demanding Tuscarora, Wilson Cove, and Halfmoon Lookout Loop. These hikes test the limits of even the most experienced adventurers, offering steep ascents, rocky terrains, and extraordinary vistas. Prepare for a true outdoor challenge as you conquer these trails and experience the unparalleled beauty of West Virginia’s wilderness.

7. Allegheny Mountain Trail

• Location: Riverton
• Mileage: 14.6-mile out-and-back trail
• FYI: A favored spot for birding and hiking, you can find moments of solitude during off-peak hours. Best times: March through October. Leashed dogs allowed.

8. North Fork Mountain Trail via WV-28

• Location: Cabins
• Mileage: 22.0-mile out-and-back trail
• FYI: A sought-after trail for backpacking, camping, and hiking, but tranquility awaits during less busy hours. Best times: April through October. Leashed dogs welcome.

9. Tuscarora, Wilson Cove, and Halfmoon Lookout Loop

• Location: Wardensville
• Mileage: 17.9-mile loop trail
• FYI: Ideal for backpacking, birding, and camping, with minimal crowds. Open year-round, offers stunning beauty anytime.

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Have you checked out any of these waterfront hikes in West Virginia? Coopers Rock State Forest Loop, Long Point Trail, and Pase Point Trail are your go-to options. Coopers Rock treats you to impressive views, while Long Point lets you walk by the water’s edge. And don’t miss Pase Point for its gorgeous river scenery.

10. Coopers Rock State Forest Loop

• Location: Morgantown
• Mileage: 4.7-mile loop trail
• FYI: Highly favored for birding, camping, and fishing, expect moderate crowds. Accessible year-round, offers year-round natural beauty. Dogs allowed, on-leash.

11. Long Point Trail

• Location: Summersville
• Mileage: 3.9-mile out-and-back trail
• FYI: Popular for birding, hiking, and mountain biking. Open year-round. Dogs welcome, some off-leash areas. Gravel parking, one portable restroom at trailhead. Tranquility during off-peak times.

12. Pase Point Trail

• Location: Davis
• Mileage: 3.8-mile out-and-back trail
• FYI: Versatile trail for cross-country skiing, hiking, and mountain biking. Enjoy solitude during off-peak hours. Open year-round. Leashed dogs welcome. Parking and restrooms at Harold S. Walters Nature Center. Food concession at park Trading Post (1.25 miles away).

Get ready for the best winter hikes in West Virginia! Bundle up and hit trails like Scott Run and Reservoir Ski Trail Loop, Acorn Ridge Trail, and Tug Fork River Trail. These hikes offer winter scenery, from snowy trails to icy waterways. Whether you are looking for a leisurely stroll or a moderate adventure, these trails have got you covered. So, grab your boots, put on that cozy hat, and enjoy the winter wonderland of West Virginia.

13. Scott Run and Reservoir Ski Trail Loop

• Mileage: 4.5-mile loop trail
• FYI: Trail for birding, hiking, and skiing. Enjoy solitude during quieter times. Leashed dogs welcome.

14. Acorn Ridge Trail

• Location: Bluefield
• Mileage: 2.0-mile out-and-back trail
• FYI: Ideal for hiking and running. Few crowds expected. Dogs welcome on a leash.

15. Tug Fork River Trail

• Location: Williamson
• Mileage: 2.1-mile out-and-back trail
• FYI: This trail is perfect for walking, offering a secluded experience with few people around. It's dog-friendly, and some areas allow dogs off-leash.

Ready for some epic hiking adventures near Charleston, West Virginia? Check out the best hikes in the area, including Alice Knight Memorial Trail, Little Creek Park Loop Trail, and The Sunrise Carriage Trail. Alice Knight Memorial Trail offers seasonal scenery, Little Creek Park Loop Trail is perfect for a peaceful stroll, and The Sunrise Carriage Trail is sure to start your day off right. So pack some snacks and get ready to hit the trails for some fun.

16. Alice Knight Memorial Trail

• Location: Charleston
• Mileage: 1.1-mile out-and-back trail
• FYI: Popular snowshoeing trail.

17. Little Creek Park Loop Trail

• Mileage: 1.0-mile loop trail
• FYI: Popular area for hiking and mountain biking. Kid-friendly. Busy during March to October. Dogs allowed, leashes required.

18. The Sunrise Carriage Trail

• Mileage: 1.4-mile loop trail
• FYI: Popular trail for birding, hiking, and road biking. Kid-friendly. Solitude possible at quieter times. Dogs allowed, leashes required.

Do you think these are the top hiking trails and the best places to hike in West Virginia? We’d love to hear about your experiences and the best hiking trails in West Virginia that you are excited to explore. Share your thoughts, and let us know which hiking trails are on your bucket list. We’re excited to hear from you!

Whether you’re an experienced hiker seeking elevation gain and switchbacks or a beginner looking for a day hike to check out the alpine lakes and mountain ranges, this West Virginia Nature Hub offers a wide range of options to meet your needs. And don’t forget to take advantage of the opportunity to try Try AllTrails+ For Free , providing you with even more resources and features for your hiking adventures!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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More to Explore

Best hiking trails in west virginia.

Does West Virginia have good hiking trails?

West Virginia's best hiking trails include:

• Kaymoor Miners Trail , Fayetteville, WV
• Seneca Rocks Trail in Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area
• Greenbrier River Trail , Cass, WV
• Bear Rocks and Lions Head Loop in Dolly Sods Wilderness

What are the best months to hike in West Virginia?

West Virginia is a fantastic year-round destination, but if you're looking for the best time to visit, aim for May, June, and September to mid-November. Late spring brings pleasant weather and a vibrant display of blooming wildflowers , adding an extra touch of beauty to your hiking adventures. Whether you're exploring the trails or taking in scenic landscapes, these months offer an ideal window to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of West Virginia.

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Explore West Virginia

• National & State Parks
• Natural Wonders
• On the Water
• Parks & Gardens
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Featured Addresses

45 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In West Virginia

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: June 21, 2021  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

With so many wonderful things to do in West Virginia, the task of narrowing down a travel itinerary may seem daunting.

However, no matter which of the nearly 50 attractions listed herein you choose to visit, there are no wrong choices.

To begin with, West Virginia is rich in history, culture, and loads of recreation.

Whether you prefer a camping trip with family or a girls’/guys’ weekend with your friends, there is something to do for everyone.

From scenic nature trails to astounding caverns and art museums to dinner theatres, West Virginia is fraught with vacation destinations.

If you find yourself asking the question of what to do in West Virginia, you’ve come to the right place.

Below, you’ll find a comprehensive list of scenic places, famous places, points of interest, and things to see all within the confines of the 35th state.

If you’ve never had the pleasure of traveling to West Virginia, strap in and get ready for an exciting ride.

Table of Contents

1. New River Gorge National Park

ESB Professional / Shutterstock

If you’re unsure of what to do in WV, New River Gorge National Park is a wonderful option with loads of outdoor possibilities.

Notably, New River is one of the continent’s oldest rivers and it’s surrounded by more than 70,000 acres of forestry and park.

The craggy, whitewater river flows through pitted canyons and is the scene of plenty of seasonal fun.

Like New River, the park itself provides limitless opportunities for scenic adventures.

If you’re interested in a more leisurely experience, you might consider camping, a scenic drive, fishing, or bicycling.

If you’re looking for more action-packed excitement, visitors are welcome to climb, hike, hunt, and even whitewater raft.

But no matter how you plan to spend your time here, the focal point for all visitors is always the New River Gorge Bridge, a structural masterpiece that is the most photographed site in all of West Virginia.

So, if you’re wondering what to do in WV, wonder no more; plan to spend some time in this magnificent park.

Address: Glen Jean, WV 25846, United States

2. Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and Youth Museum

henskechristine / flickr

One of many unique things to do in WV is the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and Youth Museum .

During your coal mine tour, you will see the underground mine and visit an old coal camp.

This interactive and historical tour will give you a feel for life as a coal miner.

Riding the dark passageways of the old coal mine is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Notably, the tours are guided by veteran coal miners who share firsthand stories of their experiences and responsibilities as miners.

After your mine tour, you’ll also enjoy visiting the Youth Museum, which features interactive exhibits for children.

With exhibits on the solar system, the Appalachian frontier, and reconstructed historical buildings, your little one will love learning all about West Virginia history.

Knowledgeable tour guides excitedly share the significance of each building in an engaging and informative way.

What’s more, the property is situated upon a meticulously kept landscape; verdant lawns, colorful flowers, and picnic areas are the backdrop to your tour of the property.

Finally, there is also a wonderful gift shop on premises that sells souvenirs, West Virginia novelties, and homemade fudge.

Be sure to check out this top sightseeing attraction in WV.

Address: 513 Ewart Ave, Beckley, WV 25801, United States

3. Carnegie Hall

Carnegie Hall

Without a doubt, one of the coolest places to visit in West Virginia is Carnegie Hall where the arts come to life.

This esteemed venue hosts theatrical, musical, and dance performances on their main stage.

No matter the time of year, you can be sure Carnegie Hall is hosting some highly entertaining live performance.

In addition to the theatre arts, Carnegie Hall is also home to art and history exhibits.

Three galleries display artwork from local artists on a rotating basis.

One of the gallery rooms is even a board room wherein educational programming frequently takes place.

So maybe you’ll take an art class during your visit.

Additionally, Carnegie Hall also houses a dance and performance studio where children and adults alike can hope to participate in enriching classes.

Finally, the hall’s Ivy Terrace is the lawn space where the venue hosts free concerts and other live performances.

In a nutshell, Carnegie Hall is your one-stop shop for everything relating to the arts.

Whether visiting today or this weekend, Carnegie Hall is sure to wow you!

Address: 611 Church St, Lewisburg, WV 24901, United States

4. Appalachian Glass

Appalachian Glass

Home to three generations of talented glassmakers, Appalachian Glass is a fun place to visit in West Virginia.

Matt, Chip, and Todd Turner are the artists behind the beautiful glass pieces you’ll encounter during your visit.

This family of glassblowers has worked together, oftentimes learning from each other, to craft both beautiful and functional glass with more than 75 years of combined industry experience.

Because West Virginia is rich in the natural resources necessary to make glass, these fellows were lucky to find their calling where they did.

Of note, Appalachian Glass provides daily glass blowing demonstrations; if you’ve never seen this done in person, it’s a sight to behold!

The process roughly includes blowing air into a glob of molten glass while rolling it to the desired shape; this process is repeated until the final product is achieved and then it’s placed in a kiln for it to set.

The process is intricate, delicate, and requires the type of finesse that only many years of experience produces.

This West Virginia hot spot (pun intended) is a must see; you won’t be disappointed.

Address: 499 US-33, Weston, WV 26452, United States

5. Snowshoe Mountain

Andriy Blokhin / Shutterstock

Whether you’re looking for places to go when visiting West Virginia in the winter or summer months, be sure to visit Snowshoe Mountain .

This mountain resort couples action-packed snow adventures with posh comfort and luxury.

At Snowshoe Mountain visitors can ski, snowboard, snowmobile, and/or learn it all at ski school.

When the weather warms up, Snowshoe switches gears to all-terrain mountain adventures.

Visitors can mountain bike, hike, canoe/kayak on the lake, stand-up paddleboard, do Segway tours, golf, and more.

Thankfully, no matter the time of year, Snowshoe Mountain is ready to deliver big thrills.

Furthermore, when you’re ready to wind down for the day or night, the resort is ready for you.

With world-class dining options like a mountain-top restaurant and lakeside snack bar, you’ll be satisfied after every meal.

Moreover, Snowshoe’s nearby village is home to some of the most popular restaurants and shopping you can imagine.

This top vacation spot, no matter the season, is one of the top 10 things to do in West Virginia, so be sure to book your reservations now.

Address: 10 Snowshoe Dr, Snowshoe, WV 26209, United States

6. Cranberry Mountain Nature Center

Cranberry Mountain Nature Center

This destination is part of the Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia and is one of the state’s top vacation spots .

The Cranberry Mountain Nature Center is home to an exhibit hall that features many hands-on displays.

Appealing to children and adults alike, the exhibits are fun, entertaining, and best of all educational.

The center’s auditorium shows engaging films on topics like Smokey the Bear, wildflowers, and more.

The center also hosts many-faceted events throughout the year like kids’ nights, live snake shows, wildlife demonstrations, and beyond.

What’s more, Cranberry Mountain Nature Center also delivers programs on topics important to the state like the differences between poisonous and nonpoisonous snakes and tours of the Cranberry Glades.

Finally, another of the center’s favored attractions is the nature store where visitors can purchase nature guides, folklore books, cookbooks, clothing, postcards, and more.

West Virginia, not short on places to see, is home to this must see nature center.

Address: Intersection of Rt 39/55 and, WV-150, Hillsboro, WV 24946, United States

7. Governor’s Mansion

Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock

One of the most beautiful places in the USA , the West Virginia Governor’s Mansion is a wonderful sightseeing destination.

This landmark is situated in the state’s capitol and has been home to West Virginia governors since 1925.

Beyond housing the state’s most esteemed official, the mansion has also welcomed foreign and domestic dignitaries alike.

But beyond the high-profile mansion residents and guests is the architecture, decor, and landscape of the mansion; these are the real draws for visitors.

Some notable design features include a marble checkerboard foyer floor, drawing-room walls painted in a unique optical illusion, and incredible landscaping.

Touring the West Virginia Governor’s Mansion is an excellent attraction for both history and architecture enthusiasts.

The well-cared-for property and history-rich design features make the mansion one of the coolest places to see in the state.

Although tours are free, they do require a reservation as tours are only given on Thursdays and Fridays.

Address: 1716 Kanawha Blvd E, Charleston, WV 25305, United States

Planning a trip to Charleston? Why not check out some of the things to do in Charleston, WV ?

8. West Virginia Mine Wars Museum

West Virginia Mine Wars Museum

Home to a slice of unsettling American History, the West Virginia Mine Wars Museum preserves artifacts surrounding one of the largest civil uprisings since The Civil War, the Mine Wars.

Essentially, the Mine Wars were turf wars between unionized miners and coal mines.

The purpose of the museum is to uphold the voices of those involved, those who made the ultimate sacrifice, and the triumphant.

Inside the museum is the country’s largest collection of Mine Wars memorabilia.

Visitors are given guided tours of things like life in coal camps, local coal strikes, and coal miners’ tools and lifestyles.

Notably, through these artifacts, the West Virginia Mine Wars Museum celebrates a frightening yet triumphant time in American history.

Once you’ve completed this interesting tour, be sure to check out the museum’s gift shop which sells apparel and nifty souvenirs.

Finally, if you’re traveling with history buffs, they’ll certainly enjoy this interesting West Virginia attraction.

Address: 401 Mate St, Matewan, WV 25678, United States

9. The Museum of American Glass

Jimmy Emerson, DVM / flickr

As noted earlier, glass is one of West Virginia’s richest resources.

As such, The Museum of American Glass celebrates the region’s rich glass heritage.

Established in 1933, the museum aims to share glass pieces and artist stories specific to West Virginia.

In addition to seeing an assortment of unique early period pieces, kitchen glass, lamps, novelties, and hundreds more, the vast museum collections are astounding.

The museum also hosts ever-changing traveling exhibits that are sure to wow you.

Furthermore, the museum frequently hosts special programming like glass collecting clubs and specialty glass shows.

Be sure to check out the museum’s calendar of events to see if anything special is happening during your visit.

Following your tour of this comprehensive homage to the West Virginia glass heritage, the museum gift shop welcomes you to peruse monographs, catalogs, and collectibles.

If you’re looking for unique places to go in West Virginia this weekend, be sure to give The Museum of American Glass a gander.

Address: 230 Main Ave, Weston, WV 26452, United States

10. Mothman Museum

Harry Steele / Shutterstock

Probably one of the creepiest things to do in WV, the Mothman Museum pays tribute to a series of strange events that afflicted the small town of Point Pleasant.

With the commencement of strange sightings like disturbing lights in the sky, peculiar “men in black,” and a red-eyed life form now known as Mothman, residents of the small town were mystified.

The museum pays homage to these strange occurrences.

Notably, the museum shares expertly displayed cases of news articles, photographs, recordings, and more surrounding the incidents.

Additionally, the museum houses Mothman art, comics, costumes, replicas, and a wide array of artifacts.

Whether you’re familiar with the strange story of Mothman or you’re just fascinated by oddities, you’re sure to love your visit to Mothman Museum.

Best of all, the museum’s gift shop has the world’s largest and most eclectic collection of Mothman souvenirs and memorabilia.

Lastly, there are still so many questions surrounding who or what Mothman is/was, but there’s no question that you’ll love visiting this strange West Virginia attraction.

Address: 400 Main St, Point Pleasant, WV 25550, United States

11. Charleston Capitol Market

Established more than 20 years ago, Charleston Capitol Market is a West Virginia institution.

A once modest farmer’s market, today the market is an indoor and outdoor shopping and social scene.

Now one of many premier tourist attractions, Charleston Capitol Market is home to indoor merchants specializing in such things as cheese/wine, fine chocolates, sushi, Italian delectables, coffee specialties, and so much more.

You’ll find purveyors of farm goods, botanicals, landscaping, and produce galore in the outdoor market.

Beyond all of the wonderfully delightful merchants and goods you’ll encounter, the market frequently hosts special events like Market Mixers, cook-offs, and more.

Best of all, the market is open year-round selling seasonal goods to locals and visitors alike.

Finally, seasonal events like Christmas tree and pumpkin picking, garden planning, and picnic shopping are other lovely market features.

If you’re looking for amusing things to see in West Virginia, make sure to stop by Charleston Capitol Market.

Address: 800 Smith St, Charleston, WV 25301, United States

12. Mountain Rail Adventures

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If you’re looking to enjoy the best of scenic West Virginia and the historic lore and charm of classic trains, this top attraction is for you.

Things to do in West Virginia aren’t hard to come by, but this top experience is one of the best.

Upon the Cass Scenic Railroad, visitors ride old-timey steam locomotives.

During their ride on the Shay Locomotive, passengers delight in the increasing speed of the engines against the backdrop of scenic and remote expanses of West Virginia.

Notably, passengers will choose from one of two awesome rail rides.

During the Bald Knob tour, guests will basque in the 4-hour ride to Bald Knob, the second highest peak in WV.

The Whittaker Station tour is only a 2-hour ride, though equally picturesque to the latter tour.

No matter the tour you choose, both are thrilling and unforgettable.

One of the coolest West Virginia attractions, a ride with Mountain Rail Adventures is a truly memorable experience that you’ll never forget.

Address: 315 Railroad Ave, Elkins, WV 26241, United States

13. West Virginia State Museum

West Virginia State Museum

Located within the West Virginia Cultural Center, the West Virginia State Museum retraces and shares the unique history of the state as a whole.

Housing such artifacts as antique hats to a telescope used by an American president, this unique look at the 35th state is one of the best places to visit in West Virginia.

Of note, the chronological layout of the museum’s exhibits allows visitors to conceptualize the state’s evolution.

Essentially, the special exhibits recreate the state’s history through narration, sounds, illustrations, descriptions, and most importantly significant artifacts.

Furthermore, through the thought-provoking displays visitors will have a better understanding of West Virginia’s cultural, industrial, and natural histories.

West Virginia State Museum is a unique lens through which to experience the state.

Best of all, tours are free to the public and one of many cool places to visit with friends and family.

Address: 1900 Kanawha Blvd E #435, Charleston, WV 25305, United States

14. Grandview State Park

T D Finch / Shutterstock

If you’re unsure of where to visit when in West Virginia, be sure to spend some time in Grandview State Park .

One of the most beautiful places to visit in the state, the park is the perfect setting for sightseeing, leisure, and outdoor activities.

One of the park’s most popular places of interest is a scenic overlook that looks upon the outstanding sights of New River, an active railway, and the verdant landscape of the park.

To reach the overlook, hikers will traverse through gorgeous rhododendrons and other colorful plant life.

In addition to the beautiful views at Grandview State Park, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun.

For instance, the park has five hiking trails which may be followed alone or with a ranger-led guide.

In the summer, the park hosts outdoor theatre productions.

Finally, any time of year is a good time to picnic or visit the park’s playgrounds.

With so many outdoor attractions in one place, Grandview State Park is a great place to visit during your stay in West Virginia.

Address: Grandview Rd, Beaver, WV 25813, United States

15. Green Bank Observatory

Zack Frank / Shutterstock

Located in a national quiet zone, the Green Bank Observatory provides access to cutting-edge telescopes and facilities for the astronomical community.

Notably, the observatory is an internationally recognized leader in research and education.

When astronomers come to Green Bank Observatory, they listen to the “remote whispers of the universe.”

Green Bank Observatory provides them with the facility and technology to successfully do so.

The observatory is open to the public for special private tours but reservations and screenings are required.

If you successfully pass the site’s screening protocol, you will have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to tour the facility’s private laboratories, see the most technologically advanced telescopes, and check out fabrication spaces.

The observatory also hosts public tours of the facility wherein you can check out the popular Catching the Wave Exhibit Hall or catch an educational flick in the auditorium.

Finish your day off with a bite to eat in the Starlight Cafe and some light shopping in the gift shop.

This must do experience is a fascinating West Virginia activity for the whole family.

Address: 155 Observatory Rd, Green Bank, WV 24944, United States

16. Lost World Caverns

Lost World Caverns

Situated 120-feel beneath the earth’s surface is the Lost World Caverns in West Virginia.

Probably one of the most magical places to visit in West Virginia, the caverns are home to astounding rock formations.

Visitors are welcome to explore the formations in self-guided tours that lead tourists through a half-mile circle.

Throughout the tour, you’ll come face to face with some of the world’s largest and most magnificent stalactites and other crystal formations.

One of this attraction’s most popular features is the “Bridal Veil” which is a 28-foot stalagmite that you have to see in person to believe.

Thankfully, photography is permitted in the caverns because there are many amazing photo opportunities.

In total, the tour lasts about 45 minutes, but the memories will certainly last a lifetime.

In addition to the cavern tour, you may also peruse the property’s natural history museum to learn about interesting prehistoric cave-dwellers.

Lost World Caverns also hosts gem mining tours where you’ll have the opportunity to find and keep semi-precious gemstones, arrowheads, ancient fossils, and other unique treasures.

The sights at this West Virginia attraction make it a place you’ve got to see during your trip.

Address: 907 Lost World Rd, Lewisburg, WV 24901, United States

17. West Virginia Botanic Garden

West Virginia Botanic Garden

One of many scenic things to do in West Virginia, this garden is an amazing sight to behold.

Situated on the picturesque Tibbs Run Preserve, West Virginia Botanic Garden is home to verdant and bright vegetation and botanicals by the mile.

The beautiful plant life surrounds and reflects off the property’s glassy pond around which trails of flowering meadows entwine.

Weaving in and out of the woodland and around streams, visitors love to stroll, observe, and contemplate.

The more than 80-acre reserve is still developing which means as time goes on, the already gorgeous landscape of West Virginia Botanic Garden will only get better.

Although visitors are welcome to tour the grounds individually, group-guided tours are available upon request.

In addition to the botanicals you’ll see during your tour, the garden also has other lovely features like a fairy garden, a wetlands boardwalk, a rock outcropping, and a dam.

Finally, West Virginia attractions like this one are a must do for visitors to the state.

Address: 1061 Tyrone Rd, Morgantown, WV 26508, United States

18. The Greenbrier

If you’re looking for top-notch vacation ideas in West Virginia, look no further.

This magnificent resort is one of the most beautiful to visit in West Virginia.

Situated on a verdant and beautifully landscaped expanse of property that encompasses activities and luxury for days, The Greenbrier is home to marvelous accommodations like cottages and historical suites.

Included in your stay are world-class amenities like overflowing welcome baskets, in-room hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and more.

Essentially, you’re given the royal treatment as a guest of the resort.

In addition to the luxurious accommodations, the resort has tons of fun activities.

Within the hotel is an epic spa, dining options for every palette, bowling, an arcade, an indoor pool, an escape room, and so much more.

Outside, there are even more exciting activities like a beautiful pool, golf, an adventure course, bike rentals, canopy tours, geocaching, and the list goes on.

The Greenbriar is truly a religious experience and one of the many wonderful sites to see in West Virginia.

Address: 101 W Main St, White Sulphur Springs, WV 24986, United States

19. Heritage Farm Museum and Village

Heritage Farm Museum and Village

If you’re interested in fun stuff to do in West Virginia, Heritage Farm Museum and Village has something for everyone.

Situated upon the property are 15 log structures, one of which is an event space, while the others are log cabin inns, seven outstanding museums, an artisan center, and other attractions.

Although lodgings are reminiscent of pioneer life in early Appalachia, they are equipped with all the bells and whistles.

Whether staying on property or not, visitors have so many options concerning things to see and what to do.

Some of the property’s most beloved attractions include visiting unique places like maker spaces, a blacksmith shop, a log church, an interactive animal habitat, a nature center, many adventure experiences, and more.

Moreover, the seven museums recount the history of Appalachia through interestingly themed displays.

Finally, vacations can be hard to plan, but Heritage Farm Museum and Village is a no-brainer with so much to do in one space.

Address: 3300 Harvey Rd, Huntington, WV 25704, United States

20. Harpers Ferry

Jon Bilous / Shutterstock

The quaint town of Harpers Ferry is situated amid the national park of the same name.

This historic West Virginia village is a step back in time.

The picturesque streets of the village sit along a stretch of water where the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers meet, providing views of Maryland and Virginia .

Whether visiting today or this weekend, Harpers Ferry has something for everyone; the town is home to tourist attractions galore.

For instance, the village is home to interesting exhibits, museums, historic battlefields, and more.

Furthermore, there are many fun activities for children, hiking trails (trails range from easy to difficult), camping areas, rock climbing, and other fun outdoor adventures.

Additionally, there are many cool historical sights to see like Jefferson Rock, a church built in the 1800s, John Brown’s Fort, and a historic tavern built in the 1800s.

With so much beautiful scenery and awesome tourist attractions in one place, you won’t be disappointed in your visit to Harpers Ferry.

Address: WV 25425, United States

21. Blackwater Falls State Park

West Virginia is not short on tourist attractions with splendid scenery.

One of the best places to visit in West Virginia, Blackwater Falls State Park is situated in the Allegheny Mountains and is a fun sight to see.

The falls themselves are so-named for the 57-foot cascade of stunning amber waters.

Along with some other epic sights within the park, the falls are one of the most photographed points of interest in West Virginia.

The falls can be visited all year long by hiking to scenic overlooks or viewing platforms scattered throughout the park.

In addition to the magnificent scenery, Blackwater Falls State Park has over 20 miles of hiking trails, an awesome sledding trail accessible in winter weather, and even a cozy lodge to relax in after a long day of adventure.

Finally, the park also has camping areas that include log cabins, as well as many other fun outdoor adventures.

Of outdoor West Virginia attractions, Blackwater Falls State Park is a must-see place.

Address: 1584 Blackwater Lodge Rd, Davis, WV 26260, United States

22. West Virginia Penitentiary

Tom Mc Nemar / Shutterstock

One of the most interesting places to visit in West Virginia, the state’s penitentiary is sure to leave you chilled to the bone.

Situated on a 10-acre expanse of land, the cold and gothic building, which was erected in the late 1800s, was home to thousands of prisoners more than a hundred of which were executed on the premises.

Architecturally speaking, West Virginia Penitentiary is a gothic stone building bedecked with turrets and battlements.

Themed tours are available to the public throughout the year.

Visitors may opt for the historical day tour, a 90-minute tour that shares the penitentiary’s history, lore, art, and insight into the criminal justice system.

Moreover, the Mystery Monday tours are a little more action-packed with climbing and exploring features.

Finally, the attraction also hosts ghost hunts, spooky night tours, and an escape from the prison tour that’s like an escape room but on a larger scale.

One of the most unique points of interest in WV, this attraction is highly recommended.

Address: 818 Jefferson Ave, Moundsville, WV 26041, United States

23. Greenbrier State Forest

Greenbrier State Forest

The Greenbrier State Forest is one of the most stunning West Virginia attractions.

Situated on more than 5,000 acres of undeveloped forestry, it’s a wonderful place to visit with family, friends, or even alone.

With miles upon miles of secluded natural beauty lined with hiking trails, biking trails, and more, the forest permits loads of other recreational attractions like fishing and swimming.

Best of all, you could spend a night or a few days at the forest’s campgrounds.

This forest system is most popular for its hiking trails.

Most notably, the trails run between Lewisburg and White Sulphur Springs, a distance of more than five miles.

Besides covering a vast distance, the trails will weave you in and out of some of the most beautiful landscapes West Virginia has to offer.

Address: 1541 Harts Run Rd, Caldwell, WV 24925, United States

24. ACE Adventure Resort

PPstock / Shutterstock

If you’re heading to West Virginia in search of high-octane adventure, then be sure to book an appointment with ACE Adventure Resort .

This adventure resort has all the excitement you need in one central location.

The resort’s property has wonderful accommodations like cliffside chalets, log cabins, and tent and RV sites for rental.

The resort is home to five restaurants, three retail locations, and even fun nightlife.

But best of all, the resort has tons of adventurous attractions for visitors to partake in.

Notably, the resort’s biggest attraction is whitewater rafting.

They offer full-day, half-day, and even overnight trips along different stretches of the Gauley River.

Beyond rafting though, the resort also has an awesome waterpark, ziplining, an aerial park, a mud obstacle course, ATV tours, and more.

In the water, you can canoe, kayak, swim, fish, and more.

Undoubtedly, ACE Adventure Resort is a one-stop shop for all the excitement and adventure you’re looking for.

Address: 1 Concho road, Oak Hill, WV 25901, United States

25. Seneca Rocks

Steve Heap / Shutterstock

Seneca Rocks , one of many awesome West Virginia attractions, is one of the state’s most popular natural landmarks.

Of note, the rocks are a scenic locale that is popular with locals and travelers alike.

Beyond the beautiful backdrop for photo opportunities, the rocks set the stage for thrill-seekers too.

Each year, hundreds of rock climbing enthusiasts travel to Seneca Rocks to try their luck at this unique and challenging rock formation.

Astoundingly, the rocks climb 900 feet above the picturesque North Fork River, another beautiful sight to see.

Besides rock climbing, Seneca Rocks is also a destination with lots of other wonderful things to do.

Visitors can river or stream fish, hike, observe nature/wildlife, learn about the area at the discovery center, and enjoy an alfresco lunch at the picnic area.

Seneca Rocks is one of West Virginia’s beautiful natural gems; be sure to check it out during your stay in the state.

Address: WV 26884, United States

26. Seneca Caverns

Karen M Miller / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind things to do in West Virginia, look no further.

Seneca Caverns provides a unique hands-on cavern experience.

Remarkably, this 450 million-year-old cavern is full of jaw-dropping features like stalagmites, stalactites, flowstone, rimstone pools, and more.

The sights you’ll see during a tour of the cavern are like nothing you’ll ever see on land.

Cave tours are guided, stunning, and provide wonderful photo opportunities.

Beyond simply touring the cave visitors can also participate in gemstone mining.

You’ll have so much fun sifting through mud, dirt, and sand to discover cool minerals and gems.

Best of all, you can keep what you find.

This is an awesome activity for adults and children alike.

Finally, Seneca Caverns has a cool gift shop, picnic areas, and an awesome restaurant too.

Seneca Falls is a great experience for all; be sure to give it a top spot on your itinerary.

Address: 3328 Germany Valley Rd, Riverton, WV 26814, United States

27. Lake Shawnee Amusement Park

Wendy van Overstreet / Shutterstock

If you’re in the market for something a bit off the beaten path, be sure to visit Lake Shawnee Amusement Park.

This abandoned attraction is spooky and unsettling but an altogether fun sight to see.

Local legend asserts that the park is haunted by unnatural spirits, yet visitors come from near and far nonetheless.

Situated on a Native American burial ground and the site of all too many violent deaths, there may be something to the idea that it’s haunted.

Abandoned though it is, visitors can arrange private tours with ghost hunters to decide for themselves.

If you’re into creepy, paranormal, and the altogether inexplicable, you’ll love this attraction.

In addition to merely touring the property, the park also hosts fun seasonal events.

If you happen to be in WV in October, you won’t want to miss the “Dark Carnival,” when you can hear park legends, hang by a creepy bonfire, play with freaky clowns, and more.

You can even camp out in the park if you’re brave enough.

Address: 470 Matoaka Rd, Rock, WV 24747, United States

28. Prabhupada’s Palace of Gold

Jon Dawson / flickr

This magnificent church is one of the most beautiful in the country.

Named for a famous and revered Hindu scholar and teacher, Prabhupada’s Palace of Gold was erected in the early 1970s as a place for him to write, worship, and preach.

Built of marble, precious metals, teak, and other lavish materials, the palace was a labor of devotees’ love for Srila Prabhupada.

During guided tours of the palace, visitors are treated to the decadently gilded interior and captivating and glimmering exterior as well as the history of its patron.

Included in your tour of the palace is a look at the award-winning Rose Garden whose bright colors and aromatic flowers draw you to its center.

Astoundingly, the garden is home to more than 3,000 bushes and 150 varieties of roses.

The spectacular and vibrant colors of the roses offset the shimmer and gleam of the palace in the background.

This highly recommended attraction should be on the top of your list.

Address: 3759 McCreary’s Ridge Rd, Moundsville, WV 26041, United States

29. Kruger Street Toy and Train Museum

Kruger Street Toy and Train Museum

Housed in the building of an old elementary school, the Kruger Street Toy and Train Museum , built in 1906, is situated on a historic site.

One of the museum’s quirky but affable features is the resident cat, Loo, who saunters about in costume as if he owns the place.

The museum’s biggest collection and draw though is the astonishing toy collection housed therein.

Remarkably, toy exhibits are arranged thematically as follows: transportation toys, miniatures, dolls, and games.

Enjoy this step back in time with the nostalgic toys of your youth.

Train-wise, the museum’s most popular attraction is a restored caboose that once belonged on the B & O Railroad.

Moreover, the museum houses a train exhibit that boasts Lionel, American Flyer, and even Lawrence Liner trains.

For added fun, the museum’s lobby doubles as a small arcade.

Be sure to hit up the gift shop on your way for fun novelties and souvenirs.

Address: 144 Kruger St, Wheeling, WV 26003, United States

30. Dolly Sods Wilderness Area

anthony heflin / Shutterstock

Sprawling across more than 17,000 acres of forestry, the Dolly Sods Wilderness is an epic natural preservation that draws visitors from far and wide.

Located across two West Virginia counties, it has a blended eco-type, elevations of nearly 5,000 feet, and best of all many wonderful natural features that serve as a backdrop of loads of fun recreation.

Notably, Dolly Sods is home to almost 50 hiking trails suitable for all experience levels.

Some of the trails run adjacent to old railroads and logging roads making for an even more scenic hike.

In addition to loads of hiking trails, visitors to Dolly Sods Wilderness Area can also fish, swim, hunt, and horseback ride.

Throughout the year, you can even plan a few days and nights at the available camping grounds.

In the winter months, visitors may also partake in cross country skiing and/or snowshoeing on the many trails.

No matter the time of year, Dolly Sods Wilderness Area is an excellent West Virginia attraction.

Address: WV, United States

31. Coopers Rock State Forest

Don Bilski / Shutterstock

Founded in 1936 this astonishing park boasts some of the most glorious sights in all of West Virginia.

Serenely situated amid the aptly named town of Almost Heaven, Coopers Rock State Forest is a favorite of locals.

Some of the park’s many stunning features include canyon overlooks, historical areas, and more than 50 miles of hiking and biking trails.

Other natural features include sandstone cliffs and epic boulders for rock climbing, terrain suitable for cross country skiing, and more.

In addition to these land features, there’s also a central lake that visitors love to use for fishing, swimming, rafting, and other water sports.

Other outdoor adventures at Coopers Rock State Forest include golfing, hunting, and geocaching.

While visiting the park, visitors love to enjoy alfresco meals in the lovely picnic pavilions.

Finally, if you prefer to stay in the park for an extended period, there are camping accommodations as well as convenient pre-set canvas tent sites.

Address: 61 County Line Dr, Bruceton Mills, WV 26525, United States

32. Appalachian National Scenic Trail

anokarina / flickr

This famous American trail is a rite of passage for outdoor enthusiasts, so if you’re planning a trip to West Virginia be sure to bookmark time to check it out.

The Appalachian National Scenic Trail consists of more than 2,000 miles of footpath.

The trail is scenic, serene, pastoral, and altogether amazing.

Built by private citizens and opened in 1937, the trail has been a national attraction since.

Notably, the trail runs through 14 US states, beginning in Georgia (depending on where you begin), passing through West Virginia, and ending in Maine .

Although the WV leg of the trail is short, it is the most popular.

Along the WV leg of the trail, hikers pass through Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, the campus of Storer College, and other historic landmarks.

Significantly, the WV portion of the trail is considered its halfway point, and it’s also where you’ll find the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, a popular resting point.

Address: Harpers Ferry, WV 25425, United States

33. Archive of the Afterlife

This “National Museum of the Paranormal” is a great spot to check out if you’re into frightful and brain-tickling sights.

The Archive of the Afterlife , established in 2011, houses many vexing artifacts.

For instance, during a tour of the museum, you’ll see such things as haunting photographs, spooky dolls, frightening weapons, and inexplicable objects.

The collection of artifacts has come from all over the world; the museum will even take “haunted” items off your hands if you’d like.

Guests of the Archive of the Afterlife may book private tours that allow them sole access to the museum for an entire day, brief public tours, and even bone-chilling ghost hunts.

Remarkably, the museum has been featured on many syndicated television shows.

Finally, the goal of Archive of the Afterlife is to share and research paranormal activity.

This West Virginia attraction is a unique but amusing place to visit during your stay in the state.

Address: 86 Railroad St, Cameron, WV 26033, United States

34. Wonderment Puppet Theatre

Wonderment Puppet Theatre

The Wonderment Puppet Theatre is a wonderful attraction for children and kids at heart.

Essentially, the theatre provides a unique and interactive outlet for both performers and patrons.

Throughout the year, the theatre runs six different and wildly entertaining shows that audiences rave about.

Before and after performances, guests can enjoy creating their own unique shows with the hands-on puppets.

Other fun features at the Wonderment Puppet Theatre include balloons for every child, a photo booth, an art gallery, and more.

The theatre’s proprietor is uber accommodating and will host performances on off-days if you’re not available to see a regularly scheduled show; if you’re running late to your performance, give a call and he’ll hold the show.

Also, be sure to bring your appetite to the theatre’s snack bar.

The theatre is truly one-of-a-kind and worth a visit especially if you’re in town with children.

Address: 412 W King St, Martinsburg, WV 25401, United States

35. Ken Sinsel’s Metal Sculptures

Ken Sinsel, Sculpter & Artist

California native Ken Sinsel has turned his West Virginia yard into a sculpture park, open to the public, of his edgy artwork.

Remarkably, Sinsel owns two adjacent properties, both of which serve as galleries for this artwork.

Essentially, his yards are a gallery for the wildly eclectic artwork crafted of scrap metal.

Significantly, Sinsel’s penchant for sculpting unique animal pieces is ever-present in his exhibits.

However, other muses take shape in his yard as well.

Sculptures like a life-sized bull, a Black Beauty-esque horse, and a dragon guarding a minion all take shape here.

From afar, the sculptures seem fairly unassuming, but when you take a closer look and note the medium with which they are crafted, you begin to see the genius of Sinsel.

Materials like shovels, knife blades, car parts, a bevy of tools, hubcaps, and more can all be spotted in his sculptures if you look closely enough.

Ken Sinsel’s Metal Sculptures are a highly recommended, free sight to see.

Address: 1110 Ridge Avenue, New Cumberland, WV 26047, United States

36. Arthurdale Historic District

Arthurdale Historic District

Established in 1933 through President Roosevelt’s New Deal Legislation, the community of Arthurdale provided a fresh start to WV residents who suffered during The Great Depression.

Historically, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt was the town’s benefactress and the town became colloquially known as “Eleanor’s Little Village.”

Today, the same charm that existed nearly 90 years ago remains.

The town remains virtually untouched by modernity while remaining open for historic tours.

During a tour of the area, visitors can learn about the town’s rich heritage, view photo galleries, hear local stories, visit shops, and more.

The district’s central feature is the New Deal Homestead Museum which is filled with artifacts from the town’s early beginnings.

One of the museum’s most popular exhibits is the Craft Shop which displays and sells crafts made by local artists.

If you’ve got space on your itinerary, be sure to schedule a tour of this history-rich West Virginia locale.

Address: 13272 N Mountaineer Hwy, Reedsville, WV 26547, United States

37. Mountwood Park

Mountwood Park

This amazing park is a beautiful site for all things outdoors including epic camping.

At Mountwood Park , guests can rent lakeside campsites, a lake house, and cabins each of which is equipped with many convenient amenities.

Although the beautiful park backdrop of the campsites is a wonderful draw for guests, the bigger draw is all of the awesome recreation opportunities.

Situated on a 50-acre lake and surrounded by more than 50 miles of hiking trails, the opportunities for action-packed fun are endless.

Of note, the park is home to gorgeous wooded picnic areas, an archery range, birdwatching, disc golf, a dog park, fishing and boating, and beyond.

Additionally, the park is home to a legendary ATV park where visitors rip around the 600 acres of trails on dirtbikes and quads.

Moreover, a park museum sits at the center of the park housing historical artifacts associated with the park.

Address: 1014 Volcano Rd, Waverly, WV 26184, United States

38. Tygart Lake State Park

Tara Ballard / Shutterstock

Tygart Lake State Park may be one of the most stunning tracts in all of West Virginia.

Beautifully, the park sits upon the 10-mile long and 1,750-acre breathtaking lake which visitors ogle at.

Notably, the park has camping accommodations as well as the ever-popular 20-room lodge.

The lodge sits upon an elevated peninsula overlooking the shimmering lake.

The lodge has a delicious full-service restaurant, a marina, and a nature center.

The extraordinary lake serves as the template for tons of adventurous recreation.

Upon the park’s property, recreational activities include geocaching, swimming, boating, hiking, and fishing.

The aforementioned lodge provides kayak and canoe rentals for guests.

Off property, just a stone’s throw away, visitors can bike, golf, and hunt.

Finally, the lake’s epic inflatable lake park is an exciting way to spend the day for both children and adults.

No matter the season during which you’ll visit, Tygart Lake State Park is a great time waiting to be had.

Address: 1240 Paul E Malone Rd, Grafton, WV 26354, United States

39. Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum

This national historic site is both mysterious and interesting.

Formerly known as the Weston State Hospital, the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum began serving the mentally ill in the mid-1800s.

However, more than that, the asylum has been the site of many historical events like a Civil War raid and a gold robbery.

Today the asylum hosts both historical tours and paranormal tours.

The asylum’s Heritage Tours explore pioneering methods in the humane treatment of the mentally ill, a peek at patient wards, the medical suite, and a geriatric building.

If you’re looking for something a little more thrilling, the asylum’s Ghost Tours are an interesting attraction.

Some believe the decommissioned asylum is haunted; are you brave enough to decide for yourself?

Visitors have reported strange sightings, spooky noises, and altogether creepy occurrences.

During an asylum Ghost Tour visitors step back in time to see how patients lived and died (and may continue to live on in spirit).

By the end of a ghost tour, you’ll have to decide for yourself if the property is truly haunted.

Address: 50 S River Ave, Weston, WV 26452, United States

40. Gandy Dancer Dinner Theatre

Gandy Dancer Dinner Theatre

This awesome theatre is just the touch of ebullient entertainment you’re looking for on your trip to WV.

As its name suggests, along with a show, visitors can enjoy a lovely dinner with options like Chicken Cordon Bleu, steak, and more.

If you’d rather skip dinner, you can also just opt for the show.

Notably, Gandy Dancer Dinner Theatre features highly talented professional performers including musicians, singers, and dancers.

Woven into the theatre’s shows are touches of humor, but best of all: passion!

Throughout the year the theatre provides amazing premier shows, tribute shows, and specialty shows.

No matter the show, the fine craftsmanship of the performers will have you looking forward to your next Gandy show.

The glitzy costumes are beautifully made and eye-catching.

The high-energy performances entice audiences to get to their feet and cut a rug with the dancers which is highly encouraged behavior.

The shows are high-energy, crazily entertaining, and best of all, fun for the whole family.

Address: 359 Beverly Pike, Elkins, WV 26241, United States

41. Oglebay Resort

This awesome West Virginia resort is home to luxury, relaxation, and excellent recreational activities.

Oglebay Resort , located in Wheeling, WV, is a picturesque backdrop to a verdant golf course, horseback riding, hiking, a gorgeous lake, an aerial obstacle course, and more.

Also housed at the resort is the extraordinary Wheeling Park which has an Olympic-sized pool, tennis courts, a waterpark, and even an ice skating rink.

In addition to all of the recreational opportunities at Oglebay Resort, there are many relaxing features too.

The West Spa provides luxurious spa services in the 5,000 square foot facility.

Moreover, there are 10 on-site restaurants specializing in an array of cuisines.

On top of all of this, the resort is also home to the Good Zoo which cares for more than 50 species of animals like hogs, bobcats, pandas, cheetahs, leopards, and more.

Remarkably, the Oglebay Resort is a one-stop vacation destination that has tons to do in one central location.

Address: 465 Lodge Dr, Wheeling, WV 26003, United States

42. Mountaineer Field

1022 Project / Shutterstock

West Virginia University’s Mountaineer Field at Milan Puskar Stadium is the high-energy home of the Mountaineers football team.

Once football season gets underway in the fall, Mountaineer Field is the place to be.

Before fans enter the stadium, the tailgate game is like none other.

But as fans enter the stadium, which can seat 60,000 fans, it erupts with excitement when the team takes the field.

Cheerleaders get the crowd going with world-class routines and the electricity that travels through the stands is palpable.

At kickoff, the real enthusiasm kicks into high gear and doesn’t relent until the final whistle.

In addition to the action of the awesome games, the stadium is also rich in history.

As visitors stroll through the corridors they are treated to a history of players, games, and stories of yesteryear.

Whether you’re a college football fan or not, the good times and history are worth a visit to Mountaineer Field.

Address: 1 Ira Errett Rodgers Dr, Morgantown, WV 26505, United States

43. Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences

Analogue Kid at English Wikipedia , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences was established in 2003 as a forerunning arts center.

The nearly 250,000 square foot center is home to performing arts productions, visual arts exhibits and education, and science programs.

The center’s vision is to advance and inspire creativity, discovery, and learning through arts and science.

Situated in the WV capital of Charleston, the center houses a discovery museum, an art museum, and a performance theatre.

The Juliet Art Museum accommodates traveling exhibits from all over the country as well as art from an astounding permanent collection.

Avampato Discovery Museum is three floors of hands-on activities suitable for inquisitive children.

The Caperton Planetarium and Theatre hosts daily intergalactic showings, while the theatre hosts concerts and theatrical performances.

Most notably, however, the center is the home base for the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra.

Finally, this is a superb attraction to visit if you happen to be in the state’s illustrious capital.

Address: 1 Clay Square, Charleston, WV 25301, United States

44. Forks of Cheat Winery

Forks of Cheat Winery

Tucked snugly in the heart of West Virginia’s Appalachian Mountains sits the lovely Forks of Cheat Winery .

Producers of award-winning wines, the winery has been a premium vintner for nearly 20 years.

Remarkably, Forks of Cheat Winery produces over 20,000 gallons of wine each year.

If you’ve ever wanted to tour an exceptional winery without having to travel to the west coast or out of the country, this winery comes highly recommended.

In addition to fine wines, Forks of Cheat Winery is also a purveyor of exceptional moonshine.

Visitors to the winery can enjoy a leisurely tour of the property, dine in the world-class restaurant, or simply enjoy wine tastings with friends and family.

Following your well-spent time at the winery, be sure to purchase a few fine varietals for home.

Whether visiting with friends or family, this lovely winery is sure to please your palette.

Address: 2811 Stewartstown Rd, Morgantown, WV 26508, United States

45. John Brown Wax Museum

William Silver / Shutterstock

Located in the heart of Harpers Ferry sits the John Brown Wax Museum .

Housed in a building at the center of the historical John Brown raid of 1859, the museum is a neat place to visit.

Notably, the wax pieces on exhibit at the museum replicate Civil War-era scenes and people.

The craftsmanship of the wax figures is remarkable and the scenes and poses are extraordinary.

Visiting the museum is a new lens through which you’ll learn about the history of Harpers Ferry and John Brown.

Moreover, the museum tells the story of John Brown’s historical raid through the use of graphics, animatronics, and voice narration that enhances the overall experience.

The museum houses more than 80 life-size figures that leave visitors gobsmacked.

If you’re traveling with history enthusiasts, this exceptional museum is a must-see attraction.

It’s highly educational with a flair for the arts.

Address: 168 High St, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To West Virginia

If you are planning a trip to the Mountain State, you can rest assured that there are plenty of things to do in West Virginia.

With an extraordinary abundance of beautiful, natural, outdoor attractions like hiking trails, mountain climbing, and more, the nature lovers in your group will adore this trip.

If, however, you prefer a more relaxed vacation, there are many resorts, theaters, museums, and more that will suit those desires too.

Essentially, no matter your vacation speed, West Virginia has you covered.

There is so much to do against the backdrop of one of the most scenic and beautiful states in the country that you can be certain your trip will be incredibly memorable.

If you only have the opportunity to visit a handful of the suggestions listed above, you will certainly not be disappointed.

West Virginia delivers on all fronts so plan wisely.

Happy travels.

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Discover fall in almost heaven.

Featured Destinations

From ATV excursions in small towns to scenic drives across the state, West Virginia is made for everyone. Rest and relax at a world-class resort or head out for a waterfall hike. It’s all waiting for you this summer in Almost Heaven.

Chase stunning fall foliage this season aboard a scenic train ride or ATV excursion. Reconnect with friends and family in a cozy cabin. From charming small towns to flavorful farm-to-table dishes, an autumn adventure awaits in Almost Heaven.

Featured Road Trip

Get a true taste of west virginia along this memorable route.

Less than three hours outside Roanoke, this stretch of West Virginia is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Shaped by the famous New River Gorge, you’ll find plenty of riverside activities, outdoor adventures and some of the most extraordinary views. Pair that with the region’s compelling historical past and vibrant small towns, and you’ve got one very memorable trip....

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Culture & Lifestyle

Check Out These Charming Small Towns in Almost Heaven

Get a true taste of west virginia along this memorable route, a memorable trip through the potomac highlands.

Defined by its rivers and lush forests, this region in southern West Virginia has some of the most spectacular outdoor recreation.

Explore Some of West Virginia's Most Stunning Sights

Just a short drive outside of the Washington and Baltimore metro areas, this loop through West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle is both a relaxing and enlightening weekend getaway.

You Can Take a Drive and a Dip Along This Historic Loop

Travel regions, parks and public lands.

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Explore lodging.

Whether you prefer a luxury retreat at a world-class resort or a rustic campsite stay under starry night skies, West Virginia has accommodations for every type of traveler. As you plan your mountain road trip, explore one-of-a-kind stays and traditional comforts along the way. The peace and solitude of Almost Heaven is just an overnight stay away.

Current Season

Blooming rhododendrons. Wildflower hikes. Rushing waterfalls. Welcome to spring in West Virginia. It's the season where Almost Heaven comes alive.

Escape the churn and burn of the daily routine and hit the road this summer. Explore wide open spaces with plenty of room to roam.

Nature works her magic every autumn in West Virginia. As the third most forested state, our country roads are vibrant with color and a sight to behold in the fall.

The wonder of winter in West Virginia is filled with untouched fallen snow, scrapes of skates along fresh ice and snow-capped mountain views you have to see to believe.

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Wild, Wonderful West Virginia’s winding country roads take you to uncrowded, charming towns and through peaceful and awe-inspiring landmarks. Here, feel free to stop and take it all in. Escape the concrete jungles for a change of pace in the Mountain State. You’ll find it’s actually quite heavenly. And if you want to stay awhile, we invite you to do so.

Looking for an iconic route?

West Virginia’s Mountain Rides are the perfect routes to explore on your next road trip adventure. Browse the trips below and keep your eyes peeled for Mountain Rides signage that will lead the way along our country roads.

Seneca Skyway

Capitol Circle

Cranberry Corridor

Birdeye Bend

Today’s Featured Country Road

Just a short drive outside of the Washington and Baltimore metro areas, this loop through West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle is both a relaxing and enlightening weekend getaway….

Explore the West Virginia Waterfall Trail

Chasing waterfalls takes on a whole new meaning this summer in West Virginia with the first-ever statewide Waterfall Trail. Download your virtual passport to start your waterfall hunt and earn exclusive prizes today.

Get Your Virtual Passport

Find Your Almost Heaven Road Trip

From historic towns rich with culture & heritage to one-of-a-kind West Virginian sights like Seneca Rocks and Blackwater Falls, the state's country roads lead to unforgettable experiences. Check out a featured road trip below and get inspired to take one of your own.

Lakes and Lighthouses Galore in the Heart of West Virginia

A trip to morgantown and fairmont will make you feel like a real mountaineer, history and nature combine along this riverside drive, a scenic drive to one-of-a-kind experiences in west virginia, a quick trip in the metro valley: experience history, culture and so much more, the ultimate west virginia beer road trip, 4 unexpected finds along wv’s country roads, a foodie's long weekend road trip in west virginia, the ultimate west virginia distillery road trip, extend your vacation with this 9-day summer road trip, looking to build your own road trip.

Take the road less traveled and build your own custom route – perfectly suited to the type of adventure you have been craving. Start by exploring unique destinations and round out your trip by selecting a one-of-a-kind lodging stay. No matter what route you take one thing is for sure – you will soon realize why John Denver declared our country roads to be "Almost Heaven."

Things To Do

Trip Inspiration

Summer Road Trip to the Northern Panhandle

The Northern Panhandle in West Virginia represents one of two panhandles in West Virginia. With historic cities like Wheeling, Weirton, Mou...

Our Guide to Spending 48 Hours in Morgantown, WV

Spend a weekend in Morgantown and find yourself right in the heart of Mountaineer Country. Home to West Virginia University, Morgantown is ...

48 Hours in the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area

Spanning an impressive 100,000 acres, the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area is home to some of the Mountain State's most ic...

48 Hours in the Mountain Lakes Region

While the lakes of this region are known for providing an abundance of summer-time fun, what most don't know is that there is still a multi...

Road Trip From One National Park to Another in West Virginia

Traveling West Virginia’s iconic country roads during the spring is an experience you can’t find elsewhere. Mountain ridges and rolling...

Waterfalls Worth Chasing in Northern West Virginia

Discover some of West Virginia's most breathtaking cascades on a road trip through the state's northern regions. While this trip ...

Soak Up Scenic Views of These Beautiful Southern Waterfalls

Exploring the West Virginia Waterfall Trail West Virginia is overflowing with a variety of gorgeous landscapes fro...

Plan Your West Virginia Coffee Shop Roadtrip

No matter where you roam throughout this beautiful state, there's always a local place to caffeinate! Travel along our country roads and yo...

5 Weekend Getaways To Take In 2022

The colder months in Almost Heaven are some of the best times to explore quaint mountain towns and their charming adventures with a weekend...

See where country roads lead in #AlmostHeaven

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10 Best Mountain Towns in Virginia, According to Locals

These are the best mountain towns in Virginia for scenic views and outdoor adventures.

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The diversity in Virginia’s geographical regions allowed it to become a state with multiple identities. In the Coastal Plain, life is defined by access to the ocean or the Chesapeake Bay. In the Piedmont, rolling hills and farmland create incredible pastoral scenes that surround larger cities. Then if you head west to the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Valley and Ridge, and the Appalachian Plateau, you’ll encounter ancient mountain ranges towering over rivers, valleys, and a variety of small towns — many of which have their own unique personalities, attractions, and reasons to visit. 

“Virginia mountain towns make me think of windy roads and endless stonewalls — a feeling of going back in time,” says Ann Shannon, lead concierge at The Clifton, a boutique hotel in Charlottesville. “I’m also reminded of eclectic shops, delicious food, the friendliest people, and fresh air. It gives me a sense of peace.” 

As someone who grew up in Bedford, a small town at the base of the Peaks of Otter, I can also vouch for this specific blend of charm, magic, and nostalgia. And while the fall is a particularly special time to experience it — according to Shannon, the foliage is “second to none with bright reds, yellows, and oranges cascading throughout the mountain ranges" — the best mountain towns in Virginia are filled with year-round appeal. Read on to discover our expert-recommend favorites. 

Charlottesville

Charlottesville might technically be a city, but it veers more toward small town than bustling metropolis. “Home to the University of Virginia, Charlottesville is a beautiful college town,” says Shannon. “I love walking the UVA grounds or hiking the Rivanna Trails and the Saunders-Monticello Trail; there’s [also] spectacular hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains only a short drive from Charlottesville.” After you’ve worked up an appetite, you’ll be more than ready to fill up at a neighborhood bistro or snack on a charcuterie plate at a local winery. “The restaurants offer incredible culinary experiences, and there are more than 40 vineyards in the area ,” she adds.

Harrisonburg

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If you’re traveling through the Shenandoah Valley, which sits between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Alleghenies, make it a point to stop in Harrisonburg. “This prime location gives you access to most outdoor activities you would want to do in Virginia: trails for hiking and biking, rock climbing, paddling, hunting, fishing, offroading, and more,” says Grant Price, a guide at Blue Ridge Mountain Guides . And if you’re looking to learn more about exploring the area? He recommends visiting some of Harrisonburg's many outfitters — including Walkabout Outfitter and Mossy Creek Fly Fishing .

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Another college mountain town to add to your list is Lexington, home to Virginia Military Institute and Washington and Lee University. “Nestled in the mountains, Main Street welcomes visitors with cute shops and darling restaurants — most of which are locally owned,” says Shannon, who recommends staying overnight at The Georges . If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to leave time in your itinerary for a performance at Lime Kiln Theater , an afternoon at Devils Backbone Brewing Company , or an entire day tubing the Maury River or fly fishing the nearby streams.

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Galax, Virginia bats well above average in two areas: music and mountain adventure. Not only is it a stop along “The Crooked Road,” Virginia’s musical heritage trail, but it’s also known as the “Old Time Music Capital of the World.” Here, Appalachian music continues to reign supreme, and you can hear it in its many forms at the Blue Ridge Music Center, the Old Fiddlers’ Convention (held every August), and The Rex , a historic theater and live music venue located in downtown Galax. Before embarking on a day of hiking or mountain biking along the New River Trail, which has a trailhead in Galax, pop into New River Trail Outfitters for last-minute gear or bike rentals.

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“Put simply, Damascus is a trail town,” says Price. “In fact, it is one of only three downtowns that the Appalachian Trail runs through.” ( Hot Springs, North Carolina and Hanover, New Hampshire are the other two, although this definition depends on the understanding of trail placement and where it falls in relation to town.) He also notes that this mountain town is home to the 33.4-mile Virginia Creeper Trail, which many runners, hikers, and bikers use to explore the area between Abingdon and the Virginia-North Carolina border. While in Damascus, make it a point to visit the Appalachian Heritage Distillery for a bourbon and enjoy a meal at The Damascus Diner.

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Those familiar with the state of Virginia may associate the town of Luray with the Luray Caverns , a geological marvel and the largest cavern in the eastern U.S., but there’s plenty more to do in this Shenandoah Valley town. Start your trip by checking into the Hotel Laurance , then get in some mileage on the Skyline Drive. Hiking in Shenandoah National Park is, of course, a must, as is a quick stop at the Luray Valley Museum and a day of family fun at nearby Massanutten Mountain . During the warmer months, the resort’s outdoor water park provides hours of entertainment with its water slides and wave pool.

Sperryville

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One of the best features of mountain towns is their ability to explored in just a day or two. Take Sperryville, for example. The tiny destination has two main streets and no stoplights — and it’s the perfect basecamp for anyone driving the Blue Ridge Parkway or hiking in Shenandoah National Park. ”On a recent visit, I had lunch at the RPK Pizza Kitchen and everything was delicious, gourmet, and fresh,” says Shannon. “Right next door is The Corner Store , an upscale grocery with local goods — perfect for grabbing some freshly baked bread and a bottle of wine for dinner. Just 10 minutes north is Patty O’s in Little Washington — a true culinary treat.”

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Abingdon encompasses everything that makes a Virginia mountain town so special. There’s great food — dinner at The Tavern is a nonnegotiable — a book store , a unique coffee shop , cozy places to grab a drink ( Katbird's Wine & Gourmet and Tumbling Creek Cider Company ), a world-class farmers market , and a dedication to celebrating the arts (check out The Arts Depot and Barter Theatre ). You’ll also find a touch of luxury at The Martha Washington Inn & Spa ; as a guest, you can use the hotel’s complimentary town bikes to ride down the historic Main Street.

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“Roanoke continues to evolve into an outdoor hotspot,” says Price. “One shining example is the annual Roanoke Go Outside Festival , which brings paddlers, bikers, hikers, frisbee golfers, tree climbers... [and all types of] outdoors people together.” Those in search of a small-town feeling within the city should head to the historic Grandin Village , a walkable neighborhood with all types of boutiques, local restaurants, coffee shops, and live music performances. For travelers looking for a more heart-pumping adventure, Price recommends the “classic sections of the Appalachian Trail, such as Dragon’s Tooth and McAfee Knob,” the latter of which is one of the most photographed spots on the AT.

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Bedford is a small mountain town that has begun to hold its own in the world of Virginia tourism. It’s an easy day trip from both Lynchburg and Roanoke — approximately 20 and 40 minutes, respectively — and its proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains is hard to beat. It’s a short drive up to the Peaks of Otter, where hiking trails, picnic tables, and the Blue Ridge Parkway’s scenic overlooks await. In town, be sure to stop by the National D-Day Memorial , have a beer at Beale’s Brewery , and shop for local art at Goose Creek Studio .

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Low numbers for voter participation in West Virginia

Could the state see better turnout in 2024.

BLUEFIELD, W.Va . (WVVA) - We’re now just two days out from the 2024 primary election in West Virginia.

Tuesday, May 14 is election day in the mountain state. There are a little more than 1 million registered voters in the mountain state, however, studies show far fewer than that number actually take-part.

For instance, CNN reports that in the 2020 Presidential Election Mercer County had close to 25,000 residents’ votes. That’s out of its 60,000 residents registered in the county. A study in New Hampshire that calculated the percentage of voter turnout in each state, placed West Virginia near the bottom of the poll for the Presidential Elections from 2008 to 2020.

Is it that people do not care about voting, or are the means not meet the necessary thresh hold to provide adequate experience and opportunity for those in the mountain state? Data from an information collecting non-profit, Movement Advancement Project, also provided charts and information laws that exist provide assistance to West Virginia voters. They provided scores on things such as voter reregistration, participation, and even into the security of voting itself.

The results over all are low, with Voter Reregistration (Registration deadlines, Voter Pre-registration, etc.) getting a 0.5/5, Representation and Participation (Direct Citizen Initiative Process, Voter registration rates, voting rights for formerly incarcerated people, etc.) received a 1/6 and Independence & Integrity (prohibition against guns in polling places, laws protecting election officials against threats, state legislature interference in elections, etc.) received a 0.5/6. You can read the full extent of the information and research here .

In the meantime, on Tuesday, depending on where you live, polls can be open as early as 6:30am and will close at around 7:30pm. You can reach out to your local board of elections if you have any questions.

Copyright 2024 WVVA. All rights reserved.

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