West Virginia: an outdoor adventure paradise

With a whopping 1.5 million acres of park and public land, this destination is ideal for an adventure - or two. Wide, open spaces meet verdant, natural vistas - we promise you won't be bored on a West Virginia holiday. The state's two National Parks and several government-designated Recreational Areas are scenic, historically significant spots designed to preserve wildlife and natural beauty. There's the New River Gorge National Park, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, and more. Each of them boasts a variety of unique experiences, ranging from boating, fishing, and biking to wildlife watching and historic adventures.

No matter your chosen activity, take a moment to soak in the incredible sights surrounding you. West Virginia is renowned for its robust system of 36 state parks, nine state forests and three rail trails! This is natural beauty at its most natural. Activities on offer in these spectacular green spaces are almost endless. Glide above the landscape on the zipline system or aerial tram at Pipestem. Ride an ATV along the Cabwaylingo Trail. Trot through the trees on horseback at Cacapon, Lost River, and Camp Creek. Boating, biking, and geocaching are also great ways to enjoy the landscape, or why not slow things down for a few hours with a bit of fishing or golf?

Lodges, cabins, and campsites let you stay in the heart of nature, while RV hookups make West Virginia park road trips simple. Looking for something unique? How about sleeping above the canopy in the Thorny Mountain Fire Tower, keeping things cosy in a Tomlinson Run Yurt, or taking the family back in time at a restored Cass Company House?

Want to walk or drive through epic, picturesque landscapes? You're in luck. With over 1,500 hiking trails to explore, there's a scenic vista around every corner. Or how about hopping in your car and driving through the astonishing off-road trails? Thanks to the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System, there are over 1,000 miles to explore!

It wouldn't be a trip to West Virginia without visiting the earth's second-oldest river at America's newest national park. With a breathtaking 70,000 acres of public land, The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve has been a favourite amongst tourists and locals for centuries. Don't miss out on its mesmerising features, including Grandview, Sandstone Falls, and the New River Gorge, one of West Virginia's most photographed areas. Cutting through intriguing geographical rock formations of beautiful flora and fauna, picturesque is the perfect word to describe this river!

Get up close and personal with the New River Gorge landscape by scaling the sandstone cliffs; over 1,400 official routes await experienced climbers, or beginners can enjoy guided adventures. If you prefer to keep your feet closer to the ground, try mountain biking on the four easy-to-intermediate Arrowhead Trails. For those who feel better with a little boost, E-bikes are available on the riverside Stone Cliff Trail.

However you travel through 'The New', keep your eyes peeled for fascinating remnants of old coal mining towns along the way! However, these towns aren't the only sprinkling of manufactured beauty, as the iconic steel arch bridge also welcomes travellers into the region.

There's no doubt that waterfalls are breathtakingly beautiful, and there's nothing more rewarding than passing one during a hike. If you love the sight and sound of cascading waters amongst glorious greenery, the West Virginia Waterfall Trail is perfect for you. You'll see numerous waterfalls; one of the state's most iconic cascades is Blackwater Falls, followed by the beautiful Glade Creek Grist Mill Falls and Cathedral Falls.

If you're a watersport enthusiast, you'll be excited to know West Virginia has one of the greatest densities of whitewater in the United States! From adrenaline-pumping, on-the-water action to a tranquil ride amongst incredible wildlife, your unforgettable whitewater rafting experience awaits.

Alternatively, go kayaking, canoeing, swimming, boating, fishing, and more - with many rivers, lakes, and streams, there's heaps of water-based fun to dive into. There's Stonewall Jackson Lake, Beech Fork Lake, Tygart Lake, and Summersville Lake, to name a few.

If you're travelling solo, how about trying your hand at stand-up paddleboarding? Holidaying with family? Take in mountainous views from the comfort of a peaceful boat ride. Be imaginative and make the most of West Virginia's spectacular surroundings.

From sitting on a boat, looking out on beautiful mountains, to climbing up them – every inch of West Virginia's natural landscape has an activity up its sleeve. There are more than 4,000 rock climbing routes in the state, and, of course, the chance to climb West Virginia's highest peaks. New River Gorge is a major climbing destination in West Virginia, but it's far from the only one. Coopers Rock State Forest is a great place to learn how to boulder, with plenty of space for larger groups to hang out, and the spectacular scenery begins right from the car park. Seneca Rocks has a challenge for every skill level with a choice of schools and guides to get you started - or lift you to the next level.

The Mountain State boasts majestic mountains, rocky vistas, and sandstone wonders, with something for everyone to enjoy. And the best thing about West Virginia's climbing challenges? You're guaranteed to be rewarded with fantastic views when you reach the top!

Prefer something a little more relaxing? The demand for astro-holidays is set to skyrocket in 2024, and West Virginia offers breathtaking stargazing experiences. It's no surprise this state was described as the 'most under the radar stargazing destinations in the US' by Travel + Leisure.com. It's one of the largest - and darkest - sky sheds on the East Coast and, therefore, a perfect spot to unwind and soak in star-studded views. West Virginia's sparse population and small cities help keep the atmosphere light-free!

Did you know 99% of US residents live in places polluted by light? This is a key reason why many choose to stargaze in West Virginia. Among numerous unspoiled locations, Watoga State Park, Calvin Price State Forest, and Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park (the site of West Virginia's last significant Civil War battle) have been awarded official Dark Sky Parks designation by the International Dark-Sky Association. No matter which you choose, you can expect dazzling skies and maybe a glimpse of the Milky Way's galactic core.