Relax during these 6 easy adventures in West Virginia

Everyone knows that West Virginia is the prime place for hard-hitting adventures like whitewater rafting the Gauley River’s class V+ rapids, ATVing on 500 miles of rugged trails and skiing down an 800-foot vertical drop. What some might not know is that you can still experience adventure in West Virginia – just on an easier scale. These light adventures will show you a whole new side of the Mountain State, one that’s just as beautiful (and a little more relaxing).

1. Kayak or canoe the scenic Coal River

Based in St. Albans, the Coal River Walhonde Water Trail is a designated river trail with access points, take-outs and places ashore to camp and picnic. Explore the over 88-mile long water trail by canoe or boat along the gentle waters of the Coal River. Along the way, you will pass through towns with picturesque views of the state that you won’t find anywhere else.

2. Bike along the beautiful North Bend Rail Trail

Bike the 72-mile long North Bend Rail Trail, which runs from Parkersburg to Wolf Summit. This trail is a perfect scenic ride for any skill level. Along the way you’ll pass through parks, farmland and small communities with history dating back to the 1800s. Stop at attractions like the Old Stone House, sites of train robberies and historic glass factories for a relaxing yet historic adventure on the trail.

3. Spend the day flat water tubing on the Shenandoah River

Nothing quite says fun like flat water tubing, sometimes called “lazy river tubing,” on the Shenandoah River in Harpers Ferry. At River Riders in Harpers Ferry, you can do just that. Flat water tubing is great for those looking for a relaxing experience or groups with younger children. So, spend the day tubing the beautiful Shenandoah River for an hour or two.

4. Zip line your way through Marshall County

See the Northern Panhandle region of the state in a way you never have before by taking a zip line canopy tour at Grand Vue Park in Moundsville. The one-of-a-kind tour consists of eight dual zip lines that range in distance from 310 feet to 1,500 feet through the trees. The tour also includes three suspension bridges, as well as the Grand Vue Park zipline ride: A 2,100-foot dual zip line!

5. Take a rail ride of a lifetime in Clay County

For an adventure unlike any other visit the town of Clay and take a rail ride on a rail bike or jitney on the BC&G Railroad. The ride is 12-miles long and takes you from Dundon to Adair. Along the way, you will see the picturesque Devils Sawmill waterfall, the stunning blue waters of Big Buffalo Creek and the scenic beauty of Clay County.

6. Experience Hardy County by horseback

Visit Lost River State Park in Mathias and take a trail ride with an expert from Hidden Trails Stables. Spend an hour or two on horseback riding on beautiful wooded trails with scenic overlooks and panoramic views. Along the way catch a glimpse of deer and other wildlife and breathe in the fresh air of Hardy County.

Which light adventure do you want to try?

This post was last updated on March 17, 2022