As the only state in the country almost wholly located within a mountain range, West Virginia has a unique ecosystem that makes it attractive to outdoor activity lovers.
Its nickname, “The Mountain State,” is well-earned. West Virginia has nearly 1700 named mountains within its borders, all part of the Appalachian Mountain system. This makes it ideal for skiing, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and much more!
The state has a comforting blend of the old mountaineering history and modern conveniences. You can even find your favorite chain restaurants and medical cannabis dispensaries mixed in with the small rural shops.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains or explore the crevices and canyons of the Allegheny Plateau, West Virginia has something for you. Check out these five top outdoor activities in The Mountain State, and cross one or all off of your bucket list!
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1. Snowshoe Mountain
Is hitting the slopes on your to-do list this winter? Newbies and experts flock to Snowshoe Mountain, a ski resort in Snowshoe, West Virginia, where they have 11,000 acres of Allegheny Mountains to explore.
The various slopes make up 244 acres of skiable area, but the rest of the thousands of terrain includes resort-style hotels, luxury amenities, shopping, dining, and hiking trails. Depending on the season, you can book offroad tours, go snowmobiling and snow tubing, or swim in the split rock pools.
2. New River Gorge
As one of the largest national parks in West Virginia, New River Gorge is full of outdoor exploration opportunities. But what really makes this park stand out is the whitewater river that flows north. Ironically named the New River, this body of water is one of the oldest rivers on the North American continent.
Visitors to the park are immersed in the breathtaking scenic vistas that spread through the deep canyons and rugged hiking trails. The park stretches over 70,000 acres of cultural and historical beauty. Go hiking, rafting, or biking every day, and you still won’t get to see everything this park has to offer!
3. The City of Summersville
Looking for a variety of outdoor activities to please the whole family? Head to Summersville, located in the heart of West Virginia and surrounded by Summersville Lake.
This massive body of water is made up of cool, clear mountain runoff and makes the ideal spot for aquatic activities like whitewater rafting and kayaking. Hikers will love the Muddlety Creek Trail. Patient nature watchers will catch glimpses of the diverse plant and animal ecosystem as they head into the dense forests.
Since Summersville is a hot tourist attraction, visitors have everything they need within its city limits, including restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. There’s truly something to make even the pickiest family members have a memorable trip here!
4. Harpers Ferry
A trip to West Virginia isn’t complete without a stopover at Harpers Ferry. This small town has roots in the Civil War when it was the site of an abolitionist raid in 1859.
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park takes visitors down memory lane into the Civil War, reminding us of the importance of this historic battle site. The town is strategically situated at the meeting point of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, which made it a crucial site during the war.
Exploring the area, you’ll see views of Maryland and Virginia as you hike the long-distance trail that begins at the Appalachian Trail Visitor Center. Be sure to stop and read the exhibits along the path that educate readers about the land’s vital role in the history of America as we know it today.
5. Blackwater Falls State Park
Blackwater Falls State Park is located in the Allegheny Mountains in Tucker County. Tucked away in this famous park is the central focal point visitors come to check out: Blackwater Falls. This 62-foot cascading waterfall starts in Canaan Valley and meanders into Blackwater Canyon.
Spend a few nights camping in a tent or staying in one of the available cabins and immerse yourself in the beauty of this park. During your trip, grab some memories of the scenic waterfall views from one of the viewing platforms or take the steep steps down to the base of the falls themselves.
Choose one of the many hiking trails that make up 20 miles of paths, and, if you come in the winter, experience the longest magic carpet sled in the East Coast.
Conclusion
Finding outdoor activities to keep you busy during your time in West Virginia won’t be hard to do! The challenging part is narrowing down which of the many offerings to add to your itinerary. Check out these five must-do experiences no matter what season you’re visiting, and fall in love with the beauty of the Mountain State!
Barry Lachey is a Professional Editor at Zobuz. Previously He has also worked for Moxly Sports and Network Resources “Joe Joe.” He is a graduate of the Kings College at the University of Thames Valley London. You can reach Barry via email or by phone.
