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Plan Your Trip to West Virginia: Best of West Virginia Tourism

By Steve5863

West Virginia

As you would expect, The Mountain State displays rustic charm with dramatic river gorges, large limestone caverns and spectacular mountain views. West Virginia hosts outdoor enthusiasts and family vacationers looking for fresh-air activities and serene mountain atmosphere. If stimulating city holidays are your preference, Charleston combines warm hospitality with a lovely riverside location. A family-friendly destination, you’ll discover children’s theatre, river park recreation and popular Bridge Road for shopping and dining. Smaller towns blend outdoor adventure with quaint village atmospheres. Set between the New, Greenbrier and Bluestone Rivers, Hinton is an historic rail town filled with turn-of-the-century architecture and a host of water activities at its doorstep – rafting, fishing, kayaking and more. In the heart of West Virginia, Summersville is a “Mountain Water Playground.” Its lakeside location encourages outdoor recreation from swimming and boating to scuba diving and rafting. And history buffs can trace Civil War battles throughout the states historic sites and state parks. Hiking or horseback riding along trails through deep hardwood forests is another family favorite, especially when you stop for a picnic along a clear mountain stream.

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West Virginia travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travelers ask in the forums.

Historical and Cultural Sites

According to forum posts, travelers interested in history and culture should visit Harpers Ferry for its rich historical significance and the Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, noted for its luxury and historical tours. The West Virginia Penitentiary in Moundsville also comes highly recommended for its intriguing tours.

Outdoor Activities

For outdoor enthusiasts, forum users suggest the New River Gorge National Park, known for its stunning views and extensive hiking trails. Blackwater Falls State Park and the Dolly Sods Wilderness are also must-visit locations for beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities.

Unique Attractions

Several travelers have called out unique West Virginia attractions such as the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum for its historical and paranormal tours, and the Mystery Hole near the New River Gorge Bridge, known for its quirky appeal.

Small Town Charm

For a taste of local flavor and small-town charm, posts recommend visiting Lewisburg and Fayetteville. These towns offer a mix of good food, local shops, and a friendly atmosphere, making them perfect for leisurely exploration.

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Transportation and Access

According to forum posts, visitors to Harpers Ferry can take a shuttle from the Visitors Center to the downtown area as early as 9 AM, which facilitates easy access to historical sites and hiking trails. Additionally, travelers have mentioned the availability of services like Lyft or Uber for exploring nearby towns such as Charles Town or Shepherdstown if they are without a car.

Accommodation Recommendations

Some travelers have recommended staying at the Blackwater Falls State Park lodging for a combination of comfort and proximity to nature. Another unique option noted by visitors is the treehouse camp at Maple Tree, which provides a distinctive lodging experience, though it is private and not near train tracks.

Local Attractions and Activities

Travelers have called out Harpers Ferry for its rich historical significance and scenic hiking opportunities. The town's downtown area is also popular for short hikes and exploring local history. For those interested in broader exploration, nearby attractions like the Shenandoah National Park and the historic site of Antietam are accessible and recommended for day trips.

Dining and Shopping

Forum posts suggest exploring local dining and ice cream shops in nearby Davis during your visit to Harpers Ferry, enhancing the small-town experience with local flavors and unique culinary offerings.

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Activities and Time Allocation

According to forum posts, to fully experience New River Gorge National Park, allocate at least two full days. Activities such as white water rafting can take a half or full day, and hiking trails vary from 45 minutes to over three hours. Other attractions include a catwalk under the bridge, which takes approximately 2.5 hours.

Accommodation and Dining

Some travelers suggest staying in cabins around Fayetteville, WV, for proximity to the park and local dining options. Fayetteville is highlighted for its variety of restaurants, with Pies and Pints being a popular choice. For those considering different lodging locations, Beckley is about a 30-minute drive and offers additional dining and accommodation options.

Scenic Spots and Trails

Travelers have called out specific trails and scenic spots within the park. The Endless Wall Trail and Long Point Trail are highly recommended for their stunning views. Additionally, the Sandstone Falls area offers a boardwalk that provides a close view of the river, enhancing the visitor experience with its natural beauty.

Accessibility and Additional Tips

For those with mobility issues, the park offers accessible options such as a boardwalk at the Visitors Center that provides a great view of the bridge. It's also mentioned that the peak colors of fall foliage may have passed by late October, suggesting that timing may affect the scenic enjoyment of the park.

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Tripadvisor is not responsible for these answers or any opinions in them. Please read full forum posts for more details and information.