Wild and wonderful, West Virginia is a state of natural beauty, rugged mountains, charming small towns, and exhilarating outdoor recreation. Whether you're whitewater rafting through the New River Gorge, exploring historic rail towns, or hiking the Appalachian Trail, this West Virginia travel guide highlights the best places to visit in the Mountain State.
Where is West Virginia?
📍 Location: Appalachian region, Eastern United States
🌆 Major Cities: Charleston, Morgantown, Huntington, Beckley
🌄 Bordering States: Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Kentucky, Ohio
🔗 Visit West Virginia Tourism
🌆 Major Cities: Charleston, Morgantown, Huntington, Beckley
🌄 Bordering States: Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Kentucky, Ohio
🔗 Visit West Virginia Tourism
Best Time to Visit West Virginia
🌸 Spring (March-May) – Wildflowers bloom, perfect for hiking and waterfall chasing.
☀️ Summer (June-August) – Great for rafting, festivals, and exploring national parks.
🍂 Fall (September-November) – Peak foliage season with scenic mountain drives.
❄️ Winter (December-February) – Ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and cozy cabin stays.
☀️ Summer (June-August) – Great for rafting, festivals, and exploring national parks.
🍂 Fall (September-November) – Peak foliage season with scenic mountain drives.
❄️ Winter (December-February) – Ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and cozy cabin stays.
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Top Attractions & Destinations in West Virginia
1. New River Gorge National Park – America’s Newest National Park
An outdoor adventure hub known for whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and scenic beauty.
🌉 Best Things to Do in New River Gorge:
- Walk the catwalk under New River Gorge Bridge
- Whitewater raft the Lower Gorge rapids
- Hike the Endless Wall and Long Point trails
📍 Location: Southern West Virginia
🔗 Visit New River Gorge
2. Harpers Ferry – History & Hiking at a Crossroads
A historic town with cobblestone streets, Civil War sites, and Appalachian Trail access.
🏞️ Top Attractions in Harpers Ferry:
- Tour Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
- Hike Maryland Heights for panoramic views
3. Blackwater Falls State Park – Iconic Waterfall Views
Known for its dramatic waterfalls, colorful canyons, and year-round outdoor fun.
🌲 Things to Do at Blackwater Falls:
- View the namesake Blackwater Falls
- Hike Lindy Point and Elakala Falls trails
- Go sledding at the longest magic carpet in the East (in winter)
📍 Location: Davis, West Virginia
🔗 Visit Blackwater Falls
4. Cass Scenic Railroad – A Step Back in Time
Ride a historic steam train through Appalachian forests and up Bald Knob.
🚂 Best Things to Do in Cass:
- Ride the Cass Scenic Railroad to Whittaker Station or Bald Knob
- Visit the Cass Historical Museum and Company Store
5. Snowshoe Mountain – Year-Round Mountain Resort
A premier destination for winter sports and warm-weather mountain activities.
🎿 Things to Do at Snowshoe:
- Ski and snowboard the slopes in winter
- Mountain bike and hike in summer
- Enjoy lakeside activities and scenic lift rides
📍 Location: Allegheny Mountains, West Virginia
🔗 Visit Snowshoe
Best Outdoor Adventures in West Virginia
- 🧗 Rock climb at the Meadow River or Seneca Rocks
- 🚴 Bike the Greenbrier River Trail
- 🛶 Kayak the Gauley River or Cheat River
- 🥾 Hike Dolly Sods Wilderness for rugged alpine views
Where to Stay in West Virginia
🏨 Historic Inns & Cozy Lodges:
- The Greenbrier (White Sulphur Springs) – Luxury resort with a storied past
- Hillbrook Inn & Spa (Charles Town) – Elegant countryside retreat
🏕️ Best Cabins & Campgrounds:
- Watoga State Park – Secluded cabins in the largest state park
- Seneca Shadows Campground – Amazing views of Seneca Rocks
Tips for Visiting West Virginia
✅ Cell service can be spotty in rural areas – download maps ahead
✅ Pack layers for mountainous regions – weather changes quickly
✅ Support small-town diners and local artisans
✅ Book train rides and park lodges early in peak seasons
✅ Pack layers for mountainous regions – weather changes quickly
✅ Support small-town diners and local artisans
✅ Book train rides and park lodges early in peak seasons
Nearby Travel Destinations
- Virginia – Explore Shenandoah National Park and Colonial Williamsburg
- Maryland – Visit Deep Creek Lake or Antietam Battlefield
- Pennsylvania – Discover the Laurel Highlands and historic Gettysburg
Final Thoughts
West Virginia is a hidden gem for nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and history buffs. Whether you’re rafting wild rivers, riding scenic trains, or simply soaking in the mountain views, the Mountain State offers unforgettable adventures in every season.
For more Appalachian travel ideas, check out our Virginia Travel Guide and Pennsylvania Travel Guide.