Picture it: country roads framed by bucolic mountains. History unfurling. Something extraordinary sits just around the bend. This is West Virginia. While the great state is situated within just a day’s drive for around 75 percent of the United States’ population, it remains an untouched gem for those seeking an outdoor adventure. With its warm and welcoming culture, uncrowded beauty, easy-going small towns, and slower pace of life, there’s a clear reason why singer John Denver dubbed it “almost heaven” in his hit song. Ready to experience this natural oasis for yourself? You’re in luck, because the open roads of West Virginia await.
Start your West Virginia sojourn in Shepherdstown. Established in 1762 along the Potomac River, this place of colonial ambiance is one of the state's oldest towns—not to mention a bastion of history. Nearly all of Shepherdstown served as a makeshift hospital for over 8,000 Confederate soldiers during the Civil War, and the entire town feels like a living history museum—from re-enactments at the Shepherdstown Battlefield, the scene of a deadly Civil War skirmish on September 19, 1862, to its late 18th-century architecture, including many Federal-style brick structures. Today, Shepherdstown is also awash in modern wonders and is known for its lively local music and arts scene, live theater shows, and award-winning eateries.
Shepherdstown, West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle
Take in Shepherdstown’s historic roots with a visit to the James Rumsey Monument, a 75-foot-tall globe-topped column made of Woodstock granite that is dedicated to inventor James Rumsey, who tested the first-ever steamboat right here on the waters of the Potomac on December 3, 1787. The monument stands within its own park, which also features hiking trails and exquisite river views. Enjoy a stroll along German Street, so named for the town’s many original German settlers, and check out the array of eclectic shops. Sample handcrafted kettle corn and popped kernels in flavors like dill pickle and salted caramel peanut at Mountaineer Popcorn, peruse a selection of beeswax candles and locally made flowerpots at Dogwood General Store, or catch a reading by a regional author at Four Seasons Books. There’s also O'Hurley’s General Store, a Shepherdstown mainstay and home to everything from fruit presses to coffins.
Hungry? Shepherdstown has a wealth of great dining options to choose from. Located in the center of the town’s historic district, Bistro 112 is a neighborhood gathering place serving up plates of blackened salmon and lemon thyme chicken in a brick building that once housed a haberdashery and cigar business. The laid-back Blue Moon Cafe sources ingredients for its menu of quiches and salads from local farmers markets—and offers outdoor seating for warmer days—while Alma Bea whips up from-scratch Appalachia fare, including a coveted chicken pot pie and West Virginia’s beloved pepperoni rolls. With so many years of history, Shepherdstown enjoys the distinction of being one of the most haunted towns in America. For a paranormal adventure that spans the time of the early settlers to the building of the Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Canal (Shepherdstown is home to one of only three river locks along this man-made waterway), don’t miss the Shepherdstown Mystery Walks, which takes place in the evenings by candlelight. Afterwards, toast a craft beer at the Bavarian Brothers Brewery, located on the grounds of the European-inspired Bavarian Inn, an 11-acre estate of elegantly appointed chalets overlooking the Potomac River Bend. Shepherdstown is also surrounded by additional area attractions to explore. There’s Harpers Ferry, a historic and cultural stronghold situated at the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers. With its walkable streets and rich heritage, the town offers plenty to see and do. Learn the story of American Abolitionist John Brown who—along with his sons and at least five known Black men—attempted to incite a slave rebellion at what’s now John Brown’s Fort. It’s an act that helped spark the beginning of the Civil War.
Browse the selection at True Treats Historic Candy, the nation’s only research-based historic candy store. Owned by candy historian and author Susan Benjamin, the shop stocks everything from sweet treats popular in the 1700s to modern day chocolate truffles. Pair live music with libations at The Barn of Harpers Ferry, or get active on the Appalachian Trail. Harpers Ferry is home to four miles of this iconic, almost 2,200-mile throughway hiking trail, as well as the trail’s headquarters. Seven miles southwest of Harpers Ferry, Charles Town is a blend of past and present oozing with small town charm. Set out on a self-guided walking tour to learn about the town’s history, which includes its 1786 founding by Charles Washington, brother of the first U.S. president. Test your luck at the Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races, where slots and roulette wheels go hand-in-hand with thoroughbred horse racing. Or catch a thriller, musical, or comedy at The Old Opera House, a cultural arts center that is one of the oldest operating live theatres in West Virginia. Consider spending the night at The Hillbrook Inn, a luxurious bed and breakfast constructed in the 1920s on George Washington’s first land purchase. Choose between rooms in the historic main house or the contemporary farmhouse, or simply reserve a spot for dinner—multi-course meals are made using fresh local ingredients and come served by candlelight.
Local shops like Pedal & Paddle offer bike rentals—a great way to cruise around town after an enjoyable lunch at spots like Bistro 112.
The Hillbrook Inn. Charles Town, West Virginia.
Rest up for tomorrow’s adventure by spending the night at a luxurious bed and breakfast, like the historic Hillbrook Inn.
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Stroll down Shepherdstown’s historic German Street to check out eclectic shops or sample a hand-crafted treat.
Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
On a visit to nearby Harpers Ferry, located at the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers, learn the story of American Abolitionist John Brown or take in panoramic views of the historic town from several hiking trails.
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Think You Know West Virginia? This Surprising Long-Weekend Itinerary Reveals Why the Mountain State Is Truly “Almost Heaven”
From scenic small-town haunts to rugged, breathtaking natural beauty, history and more—discover the adventure for yourself.
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Situated on the edge of the Monongahela National Forest, the twin mountain towns of Davis and Thomas are brimming with outdoor adventure options and laid-back, small-town vibes. Just under two-and-a-half hours southwest of Shepherdstown, these dual spots sit only about five minutes apart and serve as the perfect gateway to the neighboring wilderness, a stretch of thick forests, verdant valley, and clear mountain brooks where hiking, biking, fishing, and camping opportunities abound. Artisan galleries, craft breweries, and charming eateries are also par for the course here, making for an easy way to spend the day.
Davis and Thomas, Northern West Virginia
Begin with a stroll around Thomas, a former coal mining town that’s home to antique shops, coffee houses, music stores and galleries, not to mention a wealth of well-preserved early 20th century architecture. Browse the works of local artisans at Invisible, artist-owned and operated since 2008, then peruse the unique prints ranging from animal illustration to epic fantasy at Bloom. Whether it’s pairing a croissant with a latte or cortado at Tip Top, a casual art-filled cafe that also features a full bar, or wood-fired flatbreads and superb mountain views at Mountain State Brewing Company, one of West Virginia’s oldest distributing microbreweries and taprooms—you’ll find plenty to eat and drink. Thomas is also home to The Purple Fiddle, a fast-casual cafe serving up soups and sandwiches, as well as a popular music venue where nationally touring musicians play everything from bluegrass to sea shanties for intimate crowds.
Next, make your way over to Davis. Like Thomas, it’s located along the Blackwater River, known for its beautiful amber-colored waters. The town features a selection of delightful eateries like Siranni’s, an old-school Italian mainstay where the pizzas have national acclaim, and Milo’s Café and Restaurant, serving up juicy burgers, poke bowls, and craft cocktails right in the center of town. It’s also where you’ll find Stumptown Ales, a brewery that helped put West Virginia on the map when it comes to IPAs, known for their hoppy, flavorful taste. The town’s Blackwater Bikes rents out two-wheel rides ranging from full-suspension to e-bikes. They also offer shuttles to nearby trailheads. One to try is the Blackwater Canyon Trail, a 10.5 mile run through Monongahela National Forest, passing waterfalls and old railway relics. Begin in Thomas for a breezy downhill ride.
Davis is home to two superb state parks which also have mountain biking trails. Perched in the Allegheny Mountains, the four-season Canaan Valley Resort State Park is one of West Virginia's largest state parks, a 6,014 acre destination complete with its own overnight lodging (including suites, cabins, and campsites), an 18-hole golf course, and 18 miles of wooded and meadowed hiking and biking trails, many which link with those in Monongahela National Forest. Once the weather cools winter sports enthusiasts flock to the park’s 26 skiing and snowboarding trails—ranging from beginner to black diamond—as well as one of the longest snow tube parks in the Mid-Atlantic. For sheer beauty, make your way over to Blackwater Falls State Park. It’s home to the Instagram-worthy Blackwater Falls, a five-story-tall cascade that’s amber in color, thanks to the tannic acid of fallen hemlock and red spruce needles that tint the water. It’s less than a half-mile trek down a set of stairs to the falls’ observation deck, and the views are stunning. Blackwater Falls is one of the nearly 40 waterfalls that make up West Virginia’s statewide Waterfall Trail, launched in 2022. The park features 20 miles of additional hiking trails, as well as several smaller falls and a selection of cabins, lodge rooms and campsites.
Left: Stumptown Ales. Davis, West Virginia. Right: The Purple Fiddle. Thomas, West Virginia.
Left: Nelson Rocks Outdoor Adventures. Right: Lindy Point Overlook, Blackwater Falls State Park.
After a day spent putting your climbing skills to the test, reward your efforts by taking in a panoramic sunset over the Allegheny Mountains.
A stroll around Thomas, West Virginia is the perfect way to get familiar with the town’s shops, cuisine and culture.
Left: Blackwater Falls, Blackwater Falls State Park. Right: Seneca Rocks, Monongahela National Forest.
Monongahela National Forest
Located in the Allegheny Mountains of east central West Virginia, Monongahela National Forest is home to one of the state’s best known landmarks, Seneca Rocks.
Monongahela National Forest.
Continue your explorations with a visit to one of the state’s best known landmarks, Seneca Rocks. This remote, freestanding crag is located 30 miles south of Blackwater Falls State Park and is a haven for rock climbers, its Tuscarora quartzite formation rising 900 feet in elevation. The rocks are part of the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area, 100,000 acres within Monongahela National Forest that’s also home to Spruce Knob. At 4,863 feet above sea level, this summit is West Virginia's highest peak. Test out your own climbing skills at Nelson Rocks Outdoor Adventures. The center offers top rope climbing—which relies on a pre-set anchor for added safety—a zip line canopy tour with 12 zip lines, three sky bridges, and a thrilling 40-foot-tall rappel, and a via Ferrata or “iron way,” a protected climbing route affixed to the rock with steel ladder rungs and cables. At day’s end, rest up in one of the many accommodations in and around Thomas and Davis. These include the Dandy Flats, two distinct flats housed in a 19th century commercial building in Thomas that once held the town pharmacy, the lodge rooms and suites at Canaan Valley Resort State Park, and Blackwater Falls’ vacation-style cottages.
Take a scenic drive along the park’s Fayette Station Road, a narrow eight-mile road that starts from the Canyon Rim Visitor Center and winds down under the New River Gorge Bridge. This stretch is especially picturesque in fall, when the surrounding foliage turns bright shades of red, orange, and yellow. It’s also a spur of the National Coal Heritage Trail, showcasing the history of mining and transportation en route. For a deeper delve into mining history, set out along the Kaymoor Miners Trail, a steep one-mile descent from the top of the gorge to the abandoned Kaymoor coal mine site, once one of the highest producing mines in New River Gorge. Although it’s a strenuous trail, dropping 900 feet in elevation over its short length and involving more than 800 wooden steps, the interesting ruins and outstanding views are worth it. The Fayetteville area is a prime spot for mountain biking, with the town’s Arrowhead Bike Farm being a one-stop shop for mountain bike rentals, trail access, and even camping. Grab a brew and a fish taco at the farm’s seasonal Handle Bar & Kitchen, test your bunny hops, drops, and jumps on one of the local sandstone trails, or bed down for the night at one of the many RV and tent spots.
Fayetteville, Southern West Virginia
Get an early start for your three-hour journey to Fayetteville, an outdoor lover’s paradise situated in the state’s south, on the western edge of the Allegheny plateau. This easy-going community sits on the rim of the wild and scenic New River Gorge, drawing hikers, mountain bikers, rock climbers, whitewater rafters, and anglers alike. Along with its incredible access to wilderness, the town has plenty of history to boot. Fayetteville is named after American Revolutionary War hero Marquis de Lafayette (his statue is displayed on the town’s Fayette County Courthouse lawn). During the U.S. Civil War, it was held at various times by both the North and South—a history you can learn more about on a walking tour of Fayetteville’s historic district, which is part of the larger West Virginia Civil War Trails program.
New River Gorge Bridge
Established in 2020 as one of America’s newest national parks, the New River Gorge Park and Preserve is home to diverse ecosystems ranging from cliff and rimrock habitats to forest seeps and wetlands—not to mention, some of the country’s very best whitewater rafting.
New River Gorge Bridge.
Today, Fayetteville is brimming with local restaurants and shops selling everything from outdoor gear to handcrafted collectibles. These include Water Stone Outdoors, a hometown sporting shop that’s been outfitting climbers, hikers, and other adventure enthusiasts for 30 years, and the Lost Appalachia Trading Co., stocked with local art, sling bags, and hoodies. Perhaps Fayetteville's biggest claim to fame is as a gateway to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, established in 2020 as one of America’s newest national parks. Along with some of the country’s best whitewater rafting, the park is home to deep canyons, spectacular viewpoints, and diverse ecosystems ranging from cliff and rimrock habitats to forest seeps and wetlands. Its Canyon Rim Visitor Center is the perfect place to get your bearings, learn about the region’s history and geology, and discover the history of its resource-based industries, including coal mining and timbering. The center also overlooks the iconic New River Gorge Bridge—an 876-foot-high single-span arch bridge that’s also the longest steel span in the western hemisphere.
While the New River Gorge Bridge, stretching 3,030 feet over the mountain-surrounded New River Gorge, is a sight to behold, it’s open to vehicular traffic only. However, Bridge Walk offers guided walking tours along a narrow catwalk situated 25 feet beneath the bridge itself. Secured by a safety cable, you’ll get to experience the thrill of the gorge at a leisurely pace, with picture-perfect panoramic views and a high-climbing story to share. Pedestrians do get full-run of the bridge on Bridge Day, an annual festival rappelling, music, and stellar views that occurs each 3rd Saturday in October. Dubbed “West Virginia's largest one-day festival,” Bridge Day is also one of the largest extreme sports events on the planet: it’s the only day of the year BASE jumping (leaping from a fixed object with only a parachute) from the bridge is legal. The park’s Grandview section provides some of its most dramatic scenery, including a chance to see the colorful displays of Catawba rhododendrons that bloom here in spring, while its largest waterfall is Sandstone Falls, a 1,500-foot-wide expanse that drops the river nearly two dozen feet. For rock climbers, the park and preserve feature over 1,400 established climbs, with hard sandstone cliffs ranging from 30 to 120 feet in height. Though if whitewater rafting is more your thing, New River Gorge hosts 53 miles of free-flowing New River, with rapids ranging from Class I easy to Class V colossal. A bevy of commercial outfitters can help schedule an adventure on the river year-round, with the main season running from April through October. Among the oldest rivers on the continent, the New River heads north to join the Gauley River which enjoys its own “Gauley Season,” a six-weekend whitewater rafting extravaganza that begins on the first Friday after Labor Day and continues through the third weekend of October.
Canyon Rim Visitor Center
The perfect spot to get your bearings, and learn about the region’s history and geology, is at the Canyon Rim Visitor Center. Enjoy views of the New River Gorge from the observation deck.
Canyon RIm Visitor Center.
Left: Whitewater rafting on the New River. Right: Rock climb on of the more than 1,400 established climbs in the park.
A prime spot for mountain biking, get gear rentals at Fayetteville’s Arrowhead Bike Farm.
Another overnight option is Adventures on the Gorge offering a mix of rustic cabins, glamping tents, and deluxe lodging. Unwind after a long day with a fully-equipped kitchen and private hot tub or get back to basics with camp sites a stone’s throw from resort amenities. Back in town, grab a bite at Cathedral Cafe, a former church turned cafe—complete with stained glass windows—where breakfast is served all day, or enjoy craft brews, live local music, and everything from poutine plates to bacon bleu burgers at Southside Junction Tap House.
Left: Adventures on the Gorge offers a mix of lodging with access to resort amenities. Right: Back in town, refuel at local brewery’s like Bridge Brew Works or Southside Junction Tap House.
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