7 Resolutions for an Almost Heaven New Year

It’s that time of year again where we set goals for the approaching new year. Add some of these resolutions into your list and actually look forward to meeting all your goals this year.

1. Visit each travel region

With 9 distinct travel regions in the state, there’s so much to do and explore. Each region has its own distinct character defined by natural features, cultural heritage and rich history. From gentle rolling farmland to deep gorges and canyons, the unique experiences in each region are all connected by scenic drives on our winding, country roads.

2. Try Appalachian cuisine

West Virginia is one of the best places in the nation to find wild and delectable foods. Many excellent West Virginia restaurants offer fare made with locally sourced products.

  • Check out Secret Sandwich Society in Fayetteville for chanterelle soups or grilled mushroom burgers when they’re in season.
  • Hill & Hollow in Morgantown is dedicated to serving the freshest items Appalachia has to offer. Next time you’re there give the ramp hummus a try.

3. Travel to 10 WV State Parks

It won’t be hard to check this one off your list since there are nearly 50 state parks in West Virginia. From camping to fishing, horseback riding and much more, there’s so much to do at every state park here. It doesn’t matter the season; these parks are breathtaking year-round.

4. Experience all 4 seasons in Almost Heaven

If you haven’t heard, West Virginia is a 4-season travel destination. Each season has something truly amazing to offer.

Fly down a powdery hill on an innertube in winter. Kayak on a serene lake in spring. Pick your own berries at a u-pick farm during the summer months. Then visit stunning waterfalls surrounded by colorful foliage in fall.

Plan a trip to the Mountain State during your favorite season this year. Your version of heaven awaits.

5. Venture on rail trails

West Virginia has hundreds of miles of rail trails perfect for hiking, biking and sometimes even horseback riding. Along these trails you’ll pass through tunnels and over bridges, stop by historical sites and scenic stops and maybe even find some peace and quiet along the way.

  • The Greenbrier River Trail spans 78 miles and passes through charming small towns, 3 state parks, crosses 35 bridges and goes through 2 tunnels.
  • Take a self-guided tour of Wheeling on the 16.5-mile-long Wheeling Heritage Rail Trail.
  • From a paved trail in the heart of Morgantown to a gravel path with a rural landscape, the Deckers Creek Trail truly has it all.
  • The 1.8-mile-long rail trail nestled in Hawks Nest State Park is suitable for family members of all ages, even young children.

6. Take more hikes

Hiking around West Virginia’s mountainous landscape is one of the best ways to experience the sheer beauty of the state. Trek to the highest peak at Spruce Knob or explore the ecologically diverse Dolly Sods Wilderness Area. Go for a day hike or spend an entire weekend exploring the best hiking spots in Almost Heaven. Adventure awaits at every turn.

7. Do something new and adventurous

West Virginia is recognized as being an outdoor lover’s paradise and playground all at once. Here you can take advantage of the incredible recreational opportunities and have the time of your life.

Whizz through the treetops on a zipline at Pipestem, Grand Vue Park, ACE Adventure Resort or Adventures on the Gorge Resort. Try your hand at rock climbing at the New River Gorge. Raft down world-class whitewater rapids. Or even test out mountainous terrain on an ATV ride in the Hatfield-McCoy mountains. Tucked into the mountains is the Hatfield-McCoy Trail Systems— one of the largest trail systems in the country with more than 700 miles of trail. Embark on a wild and wonderful adventure this year.

More Almost Heaven Activities

This post was last updated on March 11, 2024