Top 7 places to go near West Virginia.

West Virginia has a rich history, natural beauty and diverse culture, but there is more to the story. There are many places to go near West Virginia, and all of them provide fascinating and unforgettable experiences that are ready to be discovered. Whether you’re a hiker looking for remarkable spots, a couple searching for a romantic destination, a shopper looking for exciting places to shop, or a family that wants to have some fun, these places to go near West Virginia are sure to have something for you. So, take your things and get ready to discover some of these seven awesome places to go near West Virginia!

7. Canaan Valley Resort State Park.

Canaan Valley Resort State Park, located in the Allegheny Mountains of Tucker County in West Virginia, is a mecca for those who enjoy their time outdoors and appreciate natural beauty. It is located in the beautiful Canaan Valley. Hence, the park is well positioned, roughly an hour’s drive away from large cities like Pittsburgh, PA, and Washington, D.C. Therefore, it is an easily reachable vacation for many vacationers looking for a change.

Activities Available for Tourists:

• Skiing and Snowboarding: The park is an enchanting snowy paradise comprising a famous ski resort that has 47 ski trails for different levels. The resort also has facilities for snow tubing, ice skating, and cross-country skiing.
• Hiking and Biking: In the summer, the park has more than 18 miles of trails, which range from easy walks to more arduous climbs that tourists can enjoy. The trails surround the mountains and the valley providing stunning views.
• Golfing: The park comprises an 18-hole professional golf course designed by Geoffrey Cornish, which proves to be picture-perfect and a test for golfers of any standard
• Camping and Lodging: The park offers different types of accommodation facilities which include a 160 room lodge, cabins, and campsite as per the need and affordability of the tourists.
• Swimming, Fishing, Bird Watching and Wildlife Viewing: Canaan valley is a paradise for bird watchers and wildlife lovers as it encompasses multiple species and rich biodiversity.

Access: The park can be reached by car off the WV-32. The signs are plenty and clear.

While visiting, book a room at Canaan Valley Resort for a memorable stay. Follow this link for accommodation reviews and bookings: Best ways to stay in Canaan State Park.

6. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.

Harpers Ferry Historical National Park is in Jefferson County, West Virginia. It is an area where the history is remarkable, and the nature is stunning. It is found at the junction of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. This delightful town, about 60 miles from Washington D.C., is a perfect day trip or a hike and is one of the best places to see near West Virginia.

Activities Available for Tourists:

• Historical Tours: Explore the town’s glorious past courtesy of guided or self-tourism. Notable landmarks are John Brown’s Fort —the bastion of John Brown’s raid—and some other museums explaining the town’s role during the Civil War.
• Hiking and Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of the trails inside the park for hiking or biking, or pack a basket and go for a picnic. The Appalachian Trail crosses this park.
• Water Activities: Use the rivers for kayaking, canoeing, or tubing.
• Shopping and Dining: Walk around the town’s historic streets, which are lined with interesting stores, cafes, and restaurateurs serving local foods and other reasonably priced artefacts.
• Photography: Capture stunning views of the confluence of the rivers, historic buildings, and surrounding landscapes.

Access: It’s easy to reach by car via U.S. Route 340, and also by train as the Harpers Ferry Amtrak station is quite close.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is the best place to stay if you wish to have a memorable visit. Follow this link for accommodation reviews and bookings: Best stays near Harpers ferry national park.

5. Cass Scenic Railroad State Park

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, located in Pocahontas County, West Virginia, is a unique destination that offers a journey back in time. This historic park features a preserved steam-driven railroad that once served the thriving lumber industry. The park is about a three-hour drive from Charleston, WV, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend adventure.

Activities Available for Tourists:

• Scenic Train Rides: Experience the magic of a bygone era with a ride on a historic steam locomotive. The train travels through the scenic mountains, offering breathtaking views and stops at the Whittaker Station and the Bald Knob overlook.
• Explore the Company Town: Step back in time and wander through the preserved company town, gaining insights into the lives of the railroad workers.
• Hiking and Outdoor Activities: Enjoy the surrounding natural beauty with hiking trails, offering stunning views of the West Virginia mountains.

Access: Easily accessible by car via WV-66 and WV-28, with clear signage leading to the park.

Book your accommodation at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park for an unforgettable stay. Follow this link for accommodation reviews and bookings : Best stays near Cass scenic railroad state park.

4. Summersville Lake

Summersville Lake is a jewel among the wonders of West Virginia. It is famous for its clean water and great landscapes—ideal for people who love outdoor activities or for those who want to relax.

Activities Available for Tourists:

• Boating and Water Sports: The lake is suitable for jet skiing, boating, paddle boarding and kayaking. Many of the marinas provide customers with boat rentals and other supplies.
• Rock Climbing: The cliffs surrounding the lake appeal to rock climbers at any level.
• Picnicking and Scenic Views: Take a picnic with family and friends to smoothies and comfortable sites around the lake, which has many amenities to enhance the experience.
• Fishing: During Summer, people tend to fishing in Summersville, including bass and walleye trout.

Access: The lake is easily accessible by car via US-19, with well-marked signs leading to its various access points.

Reserve your stay at Summersville Lake to make your trip memorable.  Follow this link for accommodation reviews and bookings : Best stays near Summersville lake.

3. Snowshoe Mountain Resort.

Snowshoe Mountain Resort is one of the best seven places to go near West Virginia. It is located in Pocahontas County, West Virginia. This all year round destination resort boasts great skiing and many outdoor activities. This resort sits in the Allegheny mountains and has beautiful views and activities for all four seasons. And the place is around a four and three-hour drive from Washington, D.C and Charleston, WV, respectively.

• Skiing and Snowboarding: Snowshoe Mountain is one of the best ski and snowboard resorts during the winter season, it provides 60 trails designed for beginner to expert level users. The resort also has terrain parks for freestyle users.
• Mountain Biking and Hiking: The resort is perfect for mountain biking, as there are several trails and a bike park during the summer season. There are also ample hiking trails with amazing views.
• Outdoor Recreation: There are many outdoor activities like fishing, swimming and kayaking in Shafer’s Lake or one can ride a horse and see the beautiful scenery around it.

Access: Reaching the resort by car is easy; follow the signposts and Highway WV-66 and Highway WV-219. The resort also has shuttle services within it for transportation convenience.

Book your accommodation at Snowshoe Mountain Resort for an unforgettable stay. Follow this link for accommodation reviews and bookings : Best stays near Snowshoe Mountain Resort.

2. Seneca Rocks

Seneca Rocks, West Virginia, is located in Pendleton County and is one of the most storied places in the entirety of the state. Situated within the Monongahela National Forest, these cliffs and bluffs draw rugged and adventurous people from all directions. In addition, the location is conveniently only about three hours to drive from Washington, DC and just a little over two and a half hours from Charleston, WV. Therefore, the region provides a splendid opportunity to avail oneself of the picturesque sights sculpted by nature’s forces.

• Rock Climbing: Rock Climbing is most probably the best part of the vacation. From the easiest sets of rocks to some of the most difficult routes, it is nothing short of an adventure.
• Hiking: Seneca Rocks Trail is a must-visit place since it offers a splendid view from a high point. It is a well-marked trail that runs for around 1.3 miles and is moderately challenging to climb.
• Visitor Center: The Seneca Rocks Discovery Center includes informative displays about the region’s geology, history, and wildlife. It also is a hub for several trails and other activities around the area.
• Camping and Picnicking: Seneca Shadows Campground has excellent camping spots with wonderful views of the rocks, and there are plenty of picnic sites ideal for a family day out.

Access: Cars can access the site using the well-marked WV-28 and WV-33 roads. There is enough space on the site to park vehicles at the visitor center and at the trailheads.

Book your accommodation near Seneca Rocks for an unforgettable stay. Follow this link for accommodation reviews and bookings : Best stays near Seneca rocks.

1. Lost World Caverns

The Lost World Caverns, which is located close to Lewisburg in West Virginia, is an interesting place to see because it is an underground cave system with beautiful geological structures. These caverns were discovered in the year 1942 and they are well known for abundant stalactites, stalagmites and other features. This place is roughly two hours away from Charleston, West Virginia.

• Self-Guided Tours: Enjoy the caverns at your own pace by going on a self-guided tour. A clearly marked route takes tourists through the main chambers, such as the “Snowy Chandelier” and the “Bridal Veil” formation.
• Wild Cave Tour: If you are feeling adventurous, opt for a guide who will take you on a wild cave tour where you can see untouched parts of the cave.
• Museum and Gift Shop: The on-site museum contains informative exhibits about the geology and history of the caverns. In addition, there is a gift shop that sells a wide range of items, including stones, minerals, and hand-made items from the area.
• Gem Mining Sluice: Guests can buy a bag of mining rough composed of gemstones, fossils, and minerals. When washing away the dirt with the water sluice, visitors discover their valuables. This activity is funny and educational for participants and enables them to learn about different types of rocks.
• Picnicking: To the eastern side of the caverns, there is a designated picnic area that provides incomparable views of the Greenbrier Valley, where picnics can be enjoyed.

Access: Easily accessible by car via US-219, with clear signage directing visitors to the site. Ample parking is available on-site.

Book your accommodation at Lost World Caverns for an unforgettable stay. Follow this link for accommodation reviews and bookings : Best stays near Lost world caverns.