Explore & Enjoy These 7 Rugged Adventures

Ready to leave all your worries behind and experience adventures of a lifetime? West Virginia is the place for you. From thrilling trails to unique activities, here, our natural landscape provides it all. Take a leap of faith for a first time try or pick back up an old hobby of the past. Read on for some of our favorite rugged adventures, all of which you’re sure to remember forever.

Off-roading of all kinds

Experience rugged adventure at its finest with a thrilling ride on the beloved Hatfield-McCoy Trails. Kick up some dust or splash through the mud as you explore nearly 1,000 miles of trails via ATV, UTV or dirt bike and see for yourself why it’s deemed some of the best trail riding in the world. From wide-open cruises to challenging terrains, these trails are sure to please adventurers of all kinds. Along with this stellar adventure, you’ll experience true southern hospitality as you travel through many ATV-friendly towns along the way.

Saddle Up

Travel off the beaten path and see some of the best scenic views on horseback. Feel the fresh mountain breeze as you venture atop Almost Heaven. Cacapon Resort State Park partners with Triple C Outfitters, a family-owned stable equipped with well-mannered horses and experienced guides. Explore the park with an easy daytime ride or saddle up for a moonlit, overnight trek. Or, for some extra adventure, go with the overnight package which includes dinner, camping under the stars and breakfast the next day.

Ready Your Bows

Ready your bows for an adventure like no other. The Resort at Glade Springs in Raleigh County has a one-of-a-kind archery course complete with sessions for ages 10 years old and up. Practice with targets before taking your skills to the field which offers 8 different 3D animal targets tucked within the woods. This rugged adventure comes to life with realistic targets such as the whitetail buck and native black bear.

Angler’s Paradise

Visit Stonecoal Lake in Upshur County for 550 acres full of fishing adventure. Most famous for its “muskies”, reeling in trout, bass, bluegill, crappie, walleye and channel catfish, is also a possibility here. Currently holding two state records for the sizes of muskellunge caught, this is a must-fish spot for any adventurous angler. Its long and narrow shape provides many coves for exploring. Stretching all the way into Lewis County, the lake also has a handicap-accessible parking lot and fishing dock, as well as a boat ramp.

Two Wheel Terrain

Where better else to mountain bike other than the Mountain State? The rugged topography found here has deemed the state an international mountain biking destination. That being said, you won’t want to miss a rip-roaring on Meeks Mountain Trails. This Putnam County trail system project began in 2018 with a mission to build and sustain a network of trails for the health and well-being of the people. With currently over 20 miles of trails, this system continues to grow every day. Whether you’re a first-time rider or an experienced pro, there’s a range of trails suitable for all skill levels.

Lake Excursions

Take a trip Braxton County and hit the wide open waters of the 14-mile-long Sutton Lake. Surrounded by over 10,000 acres of public land, guests are acquainted with a secluded getaway.  The activities options available here are endless. Rent a pontoon boat, jet ski, kayak or paddle board from the marina for a lake day of your choosing. You’ll also want to explore some the many rugged coves. Spend your time swimming in the clear, freshwaters or soak up some sun by the shore. Either way, be sure to bring along the entire family and all your friends for this adventure serves a multitude.

Almost Heaven Hiking

The Monongahela National Forest covers a massive area of nearly 1 million acres and is bursting with breathtaking scenery and adventurous recreation. This wooded wonderland expands across the north-central highlands of West Virginia, where some of the most incredible places in the state can be found. Within the forest, Tucker County is iconic for its array of natural wanders and highlights some of the best hiking there is. Reconnect with nature as you traverse Dolly Sods Wilderness. Keep your eyes peeled for waterfall views as you scout Blackwater Falls State Park.

Continue the West Virginia adventures all summer long with our bucket list full of all the must-sees and dos.

This post was last updated on May 16, 2023