10 ways to practice social distancing, WV Style

Lucky for folks in the Mountain State, we can still find ways to explore West Virginia while practicing safe social distancing measures. Spend some time away from the crowds, take a deep breath and see how we can adopt healthy, social distancing-friendly activities here in Almost Heaven.

1.    Enjoy the fresh, spring mountain air

Gorgeous wildflowers, budding branches and lush greenery signify springtime is here in the mountains. Open a window or go outside and breathe in the crisp air. Appreciate time away from the screens of your electronic devices, take a moment to relax and observe the scenes and sounds of spring.

2.    Go on a family hike or try it solo

Day-use areas of West Virginia’s state parks and forests remain open for public use, so take a hike or escape to your nearest park for a peaceful day in nature. There are plenty of family-friendly hikes to explore or try going on a solo hike. Hiking by yourself can be liberating and it also gives you some freedom to soak in your experiences in profoundly personal and memorable ways.

3.    Ride your bike around town or hit the trails

Find a route in town, a family-friendly trail or experience a mountain biking trail at one of West Virginia’s state parks and forests. West Virginia has more than 350 miles of rail trails, which are ideal for extended cycling trips. Even though you’re in the Mountain State, these rail trails are generally flat. The elevation is spread out over the course of many miles.

4.    Find a stream and go fishing

There’s nothing more peaceful than the serene sounds of nature that surround you in the great outdoors. Reel in plenty of relaxation at your favorite fishing hole.

5.   Order takeout from a local restaurant

Just because you can’t dine-in doesn’t mean you can’t take-out. Visit our online interactive dining guide for the most up-to-date list of dining options in West Virginia.  The map features restaurants that are actively providing carry out, drive-thru or delivery services. Find a restaurant near you and place an order today.

6.    Perfect a West Virginia recipe

Hone your culinary skills and get ready to practice your techniques in the kitchen by making a classic West Virginia favorite from scratch. Everything tastes better when you make it yourself, so dust off your apron, pull out your pans and try one of these recipes from West Virginia’s cookbook.

7.    Read a book by a West Virginia author

Reading is something almost everyone says they would do if they had more time. Use this newfound time alone to get lost in a thriller by West Virginia native, Stephen Coonts or read to your little ones the Caldecott Honor recipient, When I Was Young in the Mountains, inspired by Cynthia Rylant’s childhood growing up in Raleigh County. The Mountain State has produced hundreds of talented writers, including the Nobel Prize-winning Pearl S. Buck. Be sure to check out other books by West Virginians here.

8.    Watch a movie filmed in West Virginia

Watching a movie can be revitalizing and it allows you to disconnect, relax, and have a good time. Sit back, unwind and enjoy a film with ties to the Mountain State and be sure to add these West Virginia films to your movie watch list.

9.    Listen to a Podcast made by West Virginians

There are so many podcasts available for download but you might be surprised to know that there’s many produced in West Virginia or created by West Virginia natives, including NPR’s Mountain Stage, Inside Appalachia by West Virginia Public Broadcasting or My Brother, My Brother and Me on MaximumFun.

10.    Listen to a West Virginia Inspired Soundtrack

Whether you are cleaning, taking a walk outside or using the time indoors to plan your next West Virginia vacation, here are a few tunes to make your home feel like Almost Heaven.

How will you practice social distancing in West Virginia?

This post was last updated on February 28, 2022