Hit the Road – West Virginia Summertime Road Trips

West Virginia is known for rugged adventures, unique history and culture, and amazing scenery. Summer is the perfect time to get out and explore our region! Here are four awesome road trips you can take this summer without going too far from home!

Road Trip 1: Southern West Virginia’s National Parks

Did you know that southern West Virginia has not one, not two, but THREE National Park entities? You can visit them all in one day, too! The New River Gorge National River, the Gauley River National Recreation Area, and the Bluestone National Scenic River are easily accessible and perfect for outdoor recreation like hiking, biking, and water sports. The Canyon Rim Visitor Center at the New River Gorge National River is a great spot to learn about the history of the region and get a great view of the famous New River Gorge Bridge.

Road Trip 2: Highland Scenic Highway

Get your camera ready! This incredible highway runs through the Monongahela National Forest from Richwood to U.S. Route 219. There are four designated overlooks, but all 43 miles of this National Scenic Byway offer stunning views of the mountains. You also won’t want to miss the Cranberry Nature Center, Cranberry Glades, Honeycomb Rocks, and Falls of Hills Creek. All four destinations are nearby. Pack a picnic and spend the day in nature!

Road Trip 3: Scenic Route 60

Route 60, also known as the Midland Trail Scenic Byway, runs from Greenbrier county to Kanawha county with several scenic stops along the way. Start in Lewisburg (named one of America’s Coolest Small Towns!) for breakfast. Then, make a stop at Hawk’s Nest State Park in Ansted to check out one of the most famous overlooks in the state. Cathedral Falls should be your next stop – this amazing waterfall is right off the road. Finally, end your day in Charleston at the Capitol Complex. Stop by the West Virginia Cultural Center and walk through the West Virginia History Museum. One of the oldest routes in the country, Route 60 should absolutely be on your West Virginia road trip bucket list!

Road Trip 4: Italy in Appalachia

Get a taste of Italy when you drive I-79 to Marion County! There’s a reason this part of the state is known as “Italy in Appalachia,” and it’s because authentic Italian cuisine is the heart of culture here. Get a traditional pepperoni roll at Country Club Bakery or go for a full Italian family spread at Muriale’s. After your meal, take a stroll around the waterfalls of Valley Falls State Park or learn about the pioneer history of the region at Prickett’s Fort State Park!

We’re thankful to be nestled in the Appalachian Mountains. With so many exciting adventures waiting around every bend in our country roads, West Virginia is the perfect summer destination, whether you’re from here or just passing through!

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