Discover the Perfect Scenic Drives in West Virginia

“Country roads, take me home, to the place I belong.” We all know this song by heart. In fact, you’re probably singing it to yourself right now. The real question is this: Have you actually experienced a drive down a country road in Almost Heaven?  Whether it’s driving down a winding road that traces the New River or a drive through the peaks and valleys of the Potomac Highlands, you’re guaranteed to have a memorable experience! Take a drive down one of these country roads and see for yourself!

Route 20

Begin in Princeton and make your way down Route 20 to Pipestem Resort State Park. Take a short hike, and if you’re visiting on the weekend, take the tram down the mountain to grab a bite to eat at the Mountain Creek Restaurant! Continue down Route 20 to Bluestone State Park and rent a paddleboat to soak up some sun on Bluestone Lake! When you’re finished, continue to the neighboring city of Hinton and explore its historic downtown, or visit Sandstone Falls State Park to get that perfect Instagram shot! Finish your drive on Route 20 as it traces along the scenic New River.

Route 2

Have you “Herd” about how beautiful the Metro Valley is? Start your drive from Marshall University’s beautiful and historic campus and make your way up Route 2 along the Ohio River. Stop in Lesage and experience one of West Virginia’s most unique dining experiences at Hillbilly Hotdogs! From there, continue north to Point Pleasant. Tour one of the city’s incredible parks like Tu-Endie-Wei State Park. If you’re interested in the paranormal, visit the Mothman Museum and discover the role the winged phenomenon played in the local and national media throughout the 1960’s!

Route 33

Kick off the trip in Elkins at Big Timber Brewing learning about how they produce their West Virginia-made brews! Grab a bite to eat at Henry G’s Café and head down scenic Route 33 through Canaan Valley. Stop at the Canaan Valley Wildlife Refuge or visit Timberline Four Seasons Resort for a chairlift ride up the mountain to Dolly Sods! Continue to the neighboring towns of Davis and Thomas. Explore Blackwater Falls State Park and end your drive at a local favorite like Hellbender Burritos, Sirianni’s Café, or Purple Fiddle!

Route 9

Start your drive just a short distance outside of Washington D.C. in Berkeley Springs! Proceed down Route 9 past Shepherdstown until you reach Harpers Ferry – one of West Virginia’s most historic towns! Traverse along the banks of the scenic Potomac and Shenandoah rivers and discover the site of John Brown’s raid. Make your way through the John Brown Wax Museum and end the drive at the Potomac Grille for dinner!

As you can see, sometimes it pays to take the long way home. No matter what region of the state you visit, there’s sure to be a country road to take you home.

What’s your favorite country road in Almost Heaven?

This post was last updated on March 17, 2022