4 best scenic mountain road trips

There is no better way to explore West Virginia than our winding, curvy mountain roads.

Whether you’re on 4 wheels or 2, you can wind through gorgeous mountain scenery and uncover plenty to explore along the way – making memories the whole time. No trip is the same from season to season— the colors of the leaves change from brilliant greens to vibrant oranges, yellows and reds.

Here are a few of the best trips:

1. Highland Scenic Highway

43 miles through the dense hardwood forest of the Monongahela National Forest, the Highland Scenic Highway rises from an elevation of 2,300 feet to more than 4,500 feet. With 4 scenic overlooks, you’ll find plenty of spectacular places to stop and enjoy the expansive view of the Allegheny Mountains.

2. Rt 60 Midland Trail and the New River Gorge

The 180-mile Midland Trail traverses the state on historic 2-lane Route 60. The Trail is full of great places to stop and enjoy the scenery, pioneer history, outdoor adventure, local arts and crafts as well as great West Virginia food. Plus, it’s lined with flowing waterfalls.

3. Rt 32 through Canaan Valley

Route 32 is a 20-mile drive from Harman to Thomas. You’ll be mountain driving on twisty roads with elevation gains right through the beautiful Canaan Valley State Park, Blackwater Falls State Park and the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge. You’ll be surrounded by park and forest lands with abundant wildlife, waterfalls and the hospitable and hip small towns of Thomas and Davis.

4. Coal Heritage Trail

The National Coal Heritage Trail meanders through coal mining history. There are coal heritage sites all over the state, including reconstructed mines, railway lines and stations as well as towns and even an underground mine tour. And all of these interesting stops are connected by roads that criss-cross the state through spectacular scenery.

Which drive is your favorite?

This post was last updated on February 23, 2022