Road Trips around the New River Gorge

The nation’s newest national park, the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is easily accessible no matter where you’re traveling from. Many country roads and scenic routes exist in the areas surrounding the national park. After experiencing the New River Gorge area, hop in your car and find out for yourself why West Virginia truly is Almost Heaven.


Midland Trail to Charleston

The Midland Trail National Scenic Byway, also known as Route 60, is an 180 mile trail that stretches border to border across West Virginia, cutting through 41 different towns and communities. With such a variety of scenery, including waterfalls and gorgeous overlooks, this trail has something for everyone. End your road trip in the capital city of Charleston and learn some interesting facts about our state’s history by visiting the West Virginia Capitol Complex.

US 60 E. to Lewisburg

Just over an hour away from Fayetteville is the charming town of Lewisburg. The historic downtown area is one of the state’s most walkable cities, with dozens of boutique shops, antique stores and art galleries lining the picturesque main street. Check out the Greenbrier River Trail and the Greenbrier State Forest while you’re in the area. Afterwards fuel up at one of the delicious eateries in town– options range from the upscale cuisine of Stardust Cafe and The French Goat to the casual fare of The Wild Bean and Hill and Holler.

WV-15 to Monongahela National Forest

If you’re looking for a bit of a longer road trip with more windy, country roads, this is the one for you. From Fayetteville you’ll drive through some of the most stunning and remote areas the Mountain State has to offer. You’ll reconnect with what really matters when you’re able to disconnect and get off the grid. While visiting the Monongahela National Forest, you have to visit Seneca Rocks, Dolly Sods Wilderness and Spruce Knob— West Virginia’s highest peak.

US 19 N. to Summersville

Summersville is a hop, skip and jump away from Fayetteville. Nicknamed the “Little Bahamas of the East,” Summersville Lake is West Virginia’s largest lake and the perfect place to spend a summer day. Head to Sarge’s Dive Shop for all of your water adventure needs. They even offer scuba diving lessons. Then visit the Summersville Lake Retreat and Lighthouse. Here, you can rent cabins and boats, camp and take a tour of the Summersville Lake Lighthouse–the only lighthouse in West Virginia. If you’re in need of a break from the water, then stop by the beautiful Kirkwood Winery and Isaiah Morgan Distillery nearby for a tour and tasting.

National Coal Heritage Trail

The National Coal Heritage Trail meanders through coal mining history and is a window into America’s past and the unique culture and industry that defined it. Learn about West Virginia’s coal mining history at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine. Then see where wealthy coal barons once lived in the town of Bramwell— once home to the largest number of millionaires per capita of any town in America. You can’t miss out on the tour of homes while you’re there. The well preserved Victorian and Tudor style mansions are quite a sight to see.

Road Trip Ideas

Scenic Stops. Unique Locations. Amazing Sights & Sounds. This Road Trip Has it All.

There’s something about taking a road trip in Almost Heaven that just can’t be beat. Along the way new experiences are had, stunning sce…

Read More

Extend Your Vacation With This 9-Day Summer Road Trip

Whether you’re a traveler looking for a getaway or West Virginia native in search of a “staycation” a road trip through the Mountain Stat…

Read More

A Foodie’s Long Weekend Road Trip in West Virginia

If a colorful plate full of Almost Heaven flavor is on your list this season, get ready to hit the road for a foodie adventure. No trip is …

Read More

Road Trip: Sweetest small towns & main streets

From strolling down the streets of the state’s vibrant capital city to discovering the charming storefronts of a small mountain town, each…

Read More

Explore Some of West Virginia’s Most Stunning Sights

Defined by its rivers and lush forests, this region in southern West Virginia has some of the most spectacular outdoor recreation. Ever…

Read More
More Inspiration

This post was last updated on February 24, 2022