Hit the West Virginia water— hard
You can take part in just about any watersport that you can think of in the Mountain State. Whether you’re
5 best places to hang your hammock
Hammocks are a great way to relax and enjoy nature’s wonder. Lay back and enjoy the sounds, sights and smells
Leisure at the lake (or river!): 6 best boating escapes
There’s a lot to do on West Virginia’s waterways, from tubing to kayaking. But have you tried any of these
7 best free family activities in WV
Adventure abounds in the hills of West Virginia— and lots of it is free! In West Virginia, families can enjoy
5 best places to try the fastest-growing watersport
Stand-up paddleboarding– known as SUP– is one of the easiest watersports (or outdoor activities of any kind, for that matter)
Plan a prime man-cation
Need a getaway with just the guys? West Virginia’s got plenty to do, whether it’s rafting, hiking, biking or just
Your ultimate camping checklist (and where in WV to find what you need)
There’s nothing like camping in the mountains. This simple gear checklist well help you gather all the basics you’ll need
4 best mountain 4×4 trails
West Virginia has some of the best off-roading terrain on the East Coast. Whether you’re looking for mild or wild,
The trail that takes you right into the heart of mountain music
Real mountain music lives loud on West Virginia’s Route 219. Along this Mountain Music Trail, stop off at venues, festivals,
Best multi-day camp-and-trek trail trips
Trace some of the nation’s most atmospheric and historic camp-and-trek trails. In West Virginia, picturesque footpaths take you past historic
7 ziplines that’ll make you want to fly in WV
Our state packs more thrills into its hills than any place else! Explore the excitement from the skies. Since there
4 best spring wildflower events in the Mountain State
Each spring, the ridgelines and shrouded forests in the Mountain State become a kaleidoscope of bursting blooms. There are
6 surreal abandoned places you have to see to believe
Have you ever spied a crumbling old structure and wondered at the history behind it? These abandoned places in West
Escape to a world with no fast food, no stoplights
Get away from it all– traffic, crowds, even stoplights– in Monroe County, WV. Sometimes it is nice to step into
Get racin’ over the rolling hills
Running’s not just for pavement anymore. Hit the trails and experience the beauty of West Virginia woods and farmland on
4 most rewarding rock climbs for beginners
We’re the Mountain State, and mountains have a lot of rocks and cliffs that are perfect for climbing (even if
Take the trail less traveled— really less traveled!
Have you ever paddled a water trail? Water trails (also called blueways) are river or lake routes for small, non-motorized
How would you have fared on the wild frontier?
Every so often, whether you’re camping out in the woods, suddenly without cell reception, or even if there’s a cable
5 crazy plants you won’t believe grow here
As the days get warmer, West Virginia bursts into bloom with a variety of unique plant life. Check out some
The Little Bahamas… in WV?!?
Summersville Lake is one of the most popular destinations in West Virginia for boaters, swimmers and waterskiers— but what’s below
7 jaw-dropping horseback riding adventures in WV
Trek the mountains the same way the settlers did— by horseback. Many mountain trails are only used for horseback rides,
Best reasons to visit WV in April
Spring is a great time to be in West Virginia— and you can see why from these April events! 1.
A family spring break in Almost Heaven
West Virginia has all of the ingredients for a memorable spring break. Here are some great mountain getaway ideas: 1.
WV’s richest history lies deep underground
Take a fascinating tour through the earth in an authentic, restored, turn-of-the-century coal mine in Beckley. If you haven’t yet
7 amazing mountain hikes even the kids will love
Share wonder with your kids on a jaw-dropping mountain hike. Even these rolling Mountain State trails can be smooth enough
4 falls you should take off the WV mountains
West Virginia is the Mountain State, and we’ve got more than enough great cliffs, crags and rocks for you to
Have you visited WV’s National Parks? We bet you didn’t do this…
Southern West Virginia’s National Parks are known for their natural beauty and outdoor recreation. The New River Gorge National River, Gauley
Different types of skiing in the mountain slopes
Resort, freestyle, glade, backcountry, telemark: what does this all mean? Here’s a quick primer on the equipment and styles that
There’s still time! 4 winter trips to squeeze in
Never fear, winter people! There is still time for winter sports in the Mountain State. In case you haven’t already,
These magnificent mountain waterfalls freeze for winter
There’s an almost magical quality about a wintry forest scene, with icicles clinging to rocks that carried a swift-moving stream
7 reasons to be “the family that skis together”
There’s still plenty of snow on the slopes in West Virginia. Here are 7 reasons to book a trip and
WV’s 3 most notorious ski trails
West Virginia is the prime location in the southeast for skiing and snowboarding, with some of the most challenging trails
Psst: WV’s off-the-beaten-path rock climbs
This secluded area with gorgeous views of the New River has amazing climbing without the crowds. The sandstone cliffs at
Discover the East Coast’s climbing mecca
The most extensive climbing area east of the Mississippi, the New River Gorge has top rope, sport, trad, and bouldering
WV’s most unique fishing opportunity
Fishing the Bluestone in Southern West Virginia feels more like a Western trout stream than an Appalachian river. The Bluestone
Local WV secret: here’s where to reel in bass
Cheat Lake is quickly becoming one of the best bass fisheries in the state. Cheat Lake is great for all
Paddling WV’s classic whitewater river
The New River is the classic collection of whitewater runs that built West Virginia’s whitewater rafting industry. It runs all the
Sleep under the stars! The East Coast’s finest stargazing
West Virginia has some of the clearest night skies east of the Mississippi and has been named the most under-the-radar
Winter in bloom: brighten those winter blues with this wild, floral beauty
Break up the winter’s white pallette with the colorful hues of West Virginia’s wildflowers. Even when the greenery retreats and
How to make a childhood favorite even better
Remember snow days as a child? Searching for the perfect hill with your sled in hand, trudging your way to
WV’s trophy walleye fishing hotspot
This lake is home to some trophy-sized walleye, but catching these fish isn’t always easy. Situated in the middle of
Whitewater 101: paddling WV’s world-class rapids
One of the best ways to enjoy West Virginia’s stunning outdoor scenery is with the plain, pure fun of whitewater
Gear Up! Look like a snowboarding pro (even if you’re not)
Outfit yourself with the dopest mountain threads and equipment with the Mountain State’s best gear shops. Whether you are in
The East Coast’s undiscovered whitewater gem
The Cheat River ranks among the best for whitewater paddling in the region. Northeastern West Virginia is chock-full of creeks
Hikers: can you complete the Chief’s Challenge?
In 2016, West Virginia State Parks Chief Sam England challenges you to hike or walk 100 miles in the state
Where to find and photograph these 10 WV icons
Here are some of the most photographed icons in the Mountain State, and where you can best capture a beautiful
Take these stairs into the sky
You’re nearing the top. You’re eye level with craggy rock fins, which fiercely jut out of rolling green mountaintops like
The weird Alpine tradition you can also find in Appalachia
The Appalachian hills of West Virginia might not have too much in common with the rocky, soaring peaks of the
Win this winter race with just cardboard and creativity
Think you have what it takes to build your own racing sled? All you need is a roll or
You’re welcome! 13 things WV brought the world
West Virginia has been a trailblazer from the very beginning. The state was formed on the eve of the Civil
Move over, Punxsutawney Phil. This critter’s got the scoop on mountain weather
We all know the tradition of Groundhog Day. But did you know that West Virginians have their own groundhog
Soar through frosted forests with winter ziplining
A zipline trip can give you a unique bird’s eye view of the mountains— even in the winter. “The sparkle
Skiing without the slopes: cross-country in WV
The slopes aren’t the only way to enjoy winter’s beauty. Explore with the laid-back, more soulful ski trip— cross country
Family Fun on the Slopes and Beyond
Recapture the childlike magic of the season with your own kids in #AlmostHeaven. Winter has a way of capturing some
11 things everyone who grew up in WV will remember fondly
Growing up in the Mountain State forged lifelong characteristics within me. Independence, a sense of adventure and wonderment, and a
How many of these 45 authentic WV experiences have you had?
West Virginia has never been one to follow the trends— I mean, we exist because we created our own state
Take a quaint stroll under earth’s crust
West Virginia is not just wild and wonderful above ground! Go below. We have some of the most intricate and
24 resolutions to add to your bucket list this year
There are so many things to see and do in Wild, Wonderful West Virginia that it can be a bit
Want a really unique way to ring in the New Year?
West Virginia’s resorts and parks provide the perfect atmosphere to ring in a brand new year. Grab a group of
Up your camping game: master primitive skills like a pro
Do you have what it takes to make it on your own in the woods? If not, you can learn!
8 quaint country mountain inns
Cozy into a mountain escape in quaint, one-of-a-kind inns throughout West Virginia. Here are just a few of the charming,
1 trail that charts 5 charming small towns
The 136-mile Washington Heritage Trail traces the footsteps of George Washington through picturesque 18th century towns in the Eastern Panhandle.
Uncover this peaceful palace in an unexpected place
Tucked into the mountains of Marshall County in West Virginia’s Northern Panhandle is something you’d least expect to see: an
Off the beaten path in WV’s liveliest cities
West Virginia’s metro areas are full of opportunities to absorb what makes the Mountain State unique. Here are a few
7 best Mountain State snowsports
While fall in West Virginia is nothing short of gorgeous, don’t spend too long mourning its passing because winter is
5 smooth, easy biking trails for a family ride in WV
For a lot of us, learning to ride a bike was the first unabashed freedom that we experienced as
Traversing the Mon: 9 must-see sites in WV’s massive national forest
The Monongahela National Forest: nearly 1 million acres of breathtaking scenery and mountain recreation. The woodland wonderland covers the north
Discover one of the world’s largest off-roading trail systems
If you want the best off-road terrain, the Mountain State’s rolling hills harbor one of the nation’s largest trail systems.
Wind the day away on these 5 porches with gorgeous mountain views
We don’t know what it is about West Virginia porches, but they almost demand that you stop and sit. Whether
5 exciting ways to explore WV history on an outdoor adventure
As John Denver said, “Life is old there, older than the trees.” But the wild, adventurous spirit is as youthful
5 mythical mountain monsters: Mothman, mummies & other creepy creatures in WV
Folklore is very alive in the hills of West Virginia, where stories are often passed down through tight-knit generations. Appalachia
6 destinations you and the little ones will love– separately
Sometimes on your getaway, you want a little time away from the kiddos. So take them to West Virginia, where
6 best dog-friendly adventures in WV
If you’re a dog lover, you’ll probably agree that taking Sparky (or Rover, or Fido) with you on a walk
7 best places to catch the big game in WV
West Virginians love their sports, and a lot of us love kicking back local brews and eating good food while
6 amazing things you can discover underground in WV
West Virginia is known for its breathtaking mountains, but some of its most fascinating sights can be found tucked into
Up close— really close — with WV wildlife
Want to meet West Virginia’s wild and wonderful critters? The state is home to more than 57 species of amphibians
9 ways the outdoors beats the playground
Playing in the outdoors is the best fun of all— way better than any playground. Here in West Virginia, we
These daredevils parachute off a bridge— and you can watch!
It’s no wonder Bridge Day is the largest extreme sports event of its kind in the entire world. Who wouldn’t
8 quiet mountain pastimes that will remind you of your WV home
As summer winds down, it’s time to relax and recharge before the holiday frenzy hits. Enjoy simple pleasures by revisiting
22 things you didn’t know about the legendary Gauley River
One of the best whitewater destinations in the world is right here in the West Virginia mountains. Have you heard
7 things you didn’t know you could uncover in Harpers Ferry
The historic town of Harpers Ferry is perhaps best known as the site of John Brown’s famous raid on the
Great Gauley! 5 highlights on one of the world’s best stretches of whitewater
West Virginia is undeniably one of the epicenters of whitewater rafting and kayaking in the world, with the Cheat River
5 horseback riding trails where 4 legs are better than 2
Horseback riding is a great way to travel in nature. Not only do you get to interact with nature, you
7 WV adventures you’ll have to face solo… and be glad you did
Adventures are tucked into every nook and cranny of the Mountain State. Some you can enjoy together, but for others,
9 most amazing places to sleep in WV
There’s no better way to immerse yourself in West Virginia’s nature than falling asleep among the trees and under the
Stamp your passport on these WV Trails! How many have you completed?
Passports, stamps, coins, geocaches– many West Virginia land management agencies, trails, and attractions have programs that will reward you with
Summer at the lake: Top 7 WV lakes for family fun
There’s no better place to spend the hottest days of summer than by a cool lake, and West Virginia has
Biggest, longest & best-est of West Virginia
From classical to quirky, West Virginia boasts some of the biggest, longest and best-est events and attractions in the world.
Top this iconic rock formation for a jaw-dropping view
You’ll dig rock climbing at Seneca Rocks if you only have one quality—a love of true adventure. For beginners: Seneca
Wild foods of WV: the tastiest foraging along the trail
West Virginia is one of the best places in the nation to find wild and delectable foods. Our warm growing
Bike + Brew: 5 best mountain destinations
Nothing is better than a finely crafted microbrew after the rush of hugging mountains on 2 wheels all day long.
Country music stars, golf greats and more: 7 things to do at the Greenbrier Classic
The Greenbrier Classic is a world-class tournament for golf’s greats, but it’s also an event with plenty for everyone in
Love in the Mountains: the 3 sweetest, most secluded dates
Spending time with loved ones is the best way to connect and share in life’s simple pleasures. For a truly
9 hidden outdoors spots only the locals know in WV
West Virginia has lots of popular outdoor spots that draw crowds, but we also have some amazing play spots off-the-beaten-track.
These 7 near-forgotten modes of transportation will whisk you away on a wondrous journey
While many old rail lines in West Virginia have been re-purposed into rail trails, a few of the vintage cars
7 natural wonders in the National Parks and beyond
The hills and hollows of West Virginia hide an amazing number of natural wonders, from craggy peaks to subterranean caves.
5 ways WV will throw you for a loop
West Virginia has great moonshine, bluegrass, and yes, plenty of great “country roads.” But there’s so much more to this
5 shocking mountain views from WV trails
The mountain state has no shortage of steep trails and wild hikes, but finding wide open, breathtaking views can sometimes
6 dark-sky destinations & adventures after sundown in WV
Here in West Virginia, we enjoy a nightlife that isn’t just average— it’s Almost Heaven. Of course we have the usual