Unveil West Virginia’s rugged charm in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. Delve into our guide for the “Top Places to Visit in West Virginia” to experience steep mountains, rushing rivers, and charming towns like Charleston.
Surrounded by Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio, West Virginia’s hilly terrain offers a range of exciting outdoor activities, such as rock climbing and whitewater rafting, and is renowned for its excellent skiing in the winter.
West Virginia’s rich culture and history are inextricably linked to the state’s topography, with most of its citizens residing in rural communities. The lively city of Charleston, the state capital, hosts an array of festivals and cultural events year-round. Visitors can learn about the city’s Civil War past at Harpers Ferry or take in the stunning architecture of the state capital building.
Explore charming, secluded towns like Bluefield and Parkersburg, or head to popular destinations like Blackwater Falls State Park and the Monongahela National Forest. Hikers will appreciate the Appalachian Trail, which passes through the state. West Virginians take great pride in their scenic drives, with John Denver’s classic tune “Take Me Home, Country Roads” capturing the essence of the state’s natural beauty.
With its awe-inspiring scenery, diverse culture, and unique history, West Virginia is a true hidden gem for those seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure or a relaxing getaway in the midst of stunning mountain vistas.
10. Cass Scenic Railroad
Shay #6 locomotive at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, USA Image source: Breck P. Kent/Shutterstock.com
The Cass Scenic Railroad not only takes you through gorgeous scenery but also back in time in a stunning vintage carriage drawn by a steam-powered engine. Heritage railroad rides are enchanting, with the train’s whistle blowing and clouds of steam rising over the locomotive.
There is a lovely state park of the same name, which surrounds the rails. Hiking, mountain biking, and boating are just a few of the activities that may be enjoyed in the scenic landscape that surrounds the ancient lumber mill town of Cass.
The view at the top of Bald Knob, the third highest mountain in the state, is breathtaking, and it’s a highlight of the train journey.
Top Places to Visit in West Virginia: Seneca Rocks State Park
Seneca Rocks State Park, West Virginia, USA Image source: Jordan Kercheff/Shutterstock.com
The Seneca Rocks, located in West Virginia’s magnificent Seneca Rocks State Park, are one of the state’s most stunning and well-known natural landmarks and are well worth seeing for anyone interested in rock climbing or hiking in a pristine environment.
There are 375 different rock climbing routes to try on the jagged rock formations, and the views from the tops of both North Peak and South Peak are well worth the climb.
A beautiful panorama unfolds below, with rolling hills covered in forest and only broken up by expanses of green grass and farmland. Beautiful mornings and afternoons may be spent hiking the state park’s various trails and walkways.
8. Fayetteville
Rafting under the New River Gorge Bridge, USAImage source: Steve Heap/Shutterstock.com
The modest size of Fayetteville doesn’t diminish the big impact it has on its visitors. Even though there are a lot of great pubs, restaurants, and galleries in the city’s historic downtown area, the main reason people visit is the city’s beautiful natural surroundings.
Fayetteville’s proximity to the New River Gorge, where visitors may do whitewater rafting or kayaking, is a major draw for adventure tourists. The New River itself is thousands of years old.
Tourists may also do rock climbing or rappelling in the canyon; rock climbing in the neighbouring natural regions; llama trekking; and riverside fishing.
Top Places to Visit in West Virginia: Hawks Nest State Park
Railroad Trestle at Hawks Nest State Park, West Virginia, USAImage source: Jim Vallee/Shutterstock.com
Hawks Nest State Park, located not far from Fayetteville to the north, is another terrific destination for nature lovers. You may select from a wide variety of activities, and the scenery is varied and stunning. Even while the New River Gorge Bridge and the placid waters below it provide the most impressive panorama, there are plenty of other beautiful landscapes to take in.
Many various routes and roads wind their way through the woods, perfect for a day of hiking or mountain biking. The state park offers a number of exciting activities, including whitewater rafting down the New River and a picturesque ride on an aerial gondola. The autumn season is when the foliage below changes into a dazzling palette of yellows, reds, and oranges, making for a really breathtaking spectacle.
6. Snowshoe Mountain Resort
Snowshoe Ski Resort in West Virginia, USAImage source: Gary C. Tognoni/Shutterstock.com
Snowshoe Mountain Resort, which is located on Cheat Mountain, is the major ski resort in the region. As a result, tens of thousands of skiers and snowboarders from all across the United States and beyond go to its mountains every winter. The resort is a great spot to spend a holiday because of the quaint cottages it provides.
Summer is a less popular time to visit Snowshoe Mountain Resort than winter, but it still has its perks. There are many wonderful hiking and mountain biking routes in the nearby woods.
Not only that, but there is also a spa and pool area to enjoy. Water activities are available for guests to enjoy on the lake.
Top Places to Visit in West Virginia: Berkeley Springs State Park
Berkeley Springs State Park in West Virginia, USAImage source: Malachi Jacobs/Shutterstock.com
Berkeley Springs State Park is a great spot to go to unwind, relax, and soak in its healing waters since it is home to a fantastic mineral spa that has been used for ages. The warm waters come from mineral springs and have long been revered for their healing properties.
More than two centuries have passed since the first bathhouse was constructed in what is now a state park with the purpose of providing a health resort. The ancient Roman baths, with their surrounding gardens and pools, are a sight to see. Guests may relax with a massage, take a plunge in the pool, or sweat it out in the sauna.
4. Charles Town
Historic Courthouse in Charles Town, USA Image source: George Sheldon/Shutterstock.com
Charles Town, named after George Washington’s youngest brother, is a famous tourist destination that should not be mistaken for the state capital, Charleston. There is a strong sense of history and small-town charm in this area, which was established in 1787 and still has many of the original family houses and farms.
The Jefferson County Museum is a wonderful destination for anyone interested in the area’s history since it has several items and images that shed light on the past and present. If you’re planning a trip to the wilds of the Shannondale Springs Wildlife Management Area, Charles Town is also a nice place to stay as a home base.
If you’re in the mood to cool down and have some fun, there’s a water park not far away, and if you’re into gambling, poker, and slot machines, there’s a casino not far from there, too.
Top Places to Visit in West Virginia: Charleston
Charleston, the state capital and biggest city, is located at the confluence of the Elk and Kanawha rivers. The beautiful State Capitol building there overlooks the placid waters below. Since it serves as the region’s economic, cultural, and administrative epicentre, it hosts a plethora of annual festivals and events.
Beautiful historic structures with many different architectural types may be seen all across town. There are a number of excellent museums in the area, including the Avampato Discovery Museum and the West Virginia State Museum.
Charleston is known for its historical and cultural landmarks, but it also has a wide variety of excellent dining options, lively nightlife, and beautiful outdoor spaces. Hiking and mountain riding are especially enjoyable in the surrounding Kanawha State Forest.
2. Blackwater Falls State Park
Blackwater Falls State Park is without a doubt one of the most picturesque spots in all of West Virginia, with its magnificent cascade serving as the park’s undisputed focal point. The state park encompasses a large expanse of land in the Allegheny Mountains and is focused on the Canaan Valley and the Blackwater River, with many beautiful woods and woodlands located on either side.
As you go along the many trails and walkways that wind through the breathtaking landscape, you’ll come across breathtaking lookout sites and glistening waterfalls. If you have the option, spending the night in the park while camping is something you should do.
The white spray of water as it rushes over Blackwater Falls is a beautiful contrast to the lush greenery that lines the riverbanks. As the leaves change colours in the fall, the landscape becomes a sight to see.
Top Places to Visit in West Virginia; Harpers Ferry
Harpers Ferry, at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, is the state’s most visited tourist destination because of its picturesque setting among the forested mountains.
During the American Civil War, the little town was the site of heavy fighting due to its strategic importance. Thus, there are many significant historical landmarks and intriguing historical sites to visit.
Just as many people visit Harpers Ferry to take in the area’s stunning wildness as they do to learn about the town’s significant role in the Civil War and see the various sites it contains. There are many exciting things to do, such as ziplining, whitewater rafting, and inner tubing.
If you want to get out into nature, you have to go hiking along the Appalachian Trail. Harpers Ferry is a popular tourist destination, but don’t let that deter you; the town has a pleasant, relaxed atmosphere and plenty of exciting activities.
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