Plan a Solar Eclipse Trip to These 5 Scenic Spots in West Virginia
West Virginia is abundant in scenic backdrops that are sure to impress. With Almost Heaven being as close as it is to the path of the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse, you will get a unique experience while not having to think about the large crowds.
For a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the Mountain State’s best features in different lighting, put on your special eclipse glasses and consider these five scenic spots during your solar eclipse adventure.
*For your safety, be sure to wear a pair of ISO-approved eclipse glasses while on your adventure.
Reach for the Sky in #AlmostHeaven
Watoga State Park
Marlinton, West Virginia
Pocahontas County is known for its untouched nature. A designated Dark Sky destination and West Virginia’s largest state park, Watoga is home to 10,000 serene acres of forests and large bodies of water. You will notice this park’s landscape is perfectly suited for recreational activities like hiking, swimming, boating, fishing, camping, geocaching and more. Watoga State Park is praised by major publications like Travel + Leisure, Outside Magazine and Business Insider, so imagine this new perspective on its dark skies once the partial eclipse makes its way over the mountains.
New River Gorge National Park
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve boasts breathtaking views no matter where you plant your feet. Consider hiking the three-mile out-and-back Long Point Trail. This easy trail leads to an open view of the 876-foot tall New River Gorge Bridge – with an obstructed view of the sky for you to gaze at the eclipse.
For short, easy hikes that are less-traveled on, consider hiking the scenic Big Buck Trail, Burnwood Trail and Timber Ridge Trail.
Seneca Rocks
Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area
The 2.6-mile out-and-back trail leading to the top of Seneca Rocks is a bit of a climb, but this trail has switchbacks to offset some of the steepness. The 900-foot rock formation, which is praised by rock climbers, oversees the North Fork River and surrounding valley. There are benches along the way where hikers can catch their breath.
While you’re in the area taking in different views of the eclipse, don’t skip out on driving to the top of Spruce Knob, which is the highest point in the state. An observation tower beyond the parking area offers breathtaking views atop the 4,863-foot Spruce Mountain.
Fort Boreman Park
Parkersburg, West Virginia
Like its hilltops and overlooks, West Virginia’s lower elevations along the Ohio River provide stunning views too. Once the site of a Union fort during the Civil War, Fort Boreman Park in Parkersburg has several overlooks that present peaceful imagery of the barges and sternwheelers rolling on the river below. Its airy location is perfect for catching a sky view as the solar eclipse makes its round.
Grand Vue Park
Moundsville, West Virginia
Grand Vue Park is a peaceful destination with a dramatic backdrop. Whether you are enjoying the view from the scenic overlook or hiking through the trails, you will see how beautiful the nature can be. Now, just imagine that same beauty, except it’s amplified by the unique sunlight cast by the solar eclipse.
Reach for the Sky in #AlmostHeaven
This post was last updated on March 21, 2024