Spend a Quiet Winter Weekend in the Potomac Highlands Region of West Virginia

If you’re dreaming of a peaceful weekend surrounded by nature this winter, look no further than the Potomac Highlands. There are several hidden gems nestled here – this region offers the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.

This winter, get away from the buzzing cities, go off the beaten path and reconnect with the great outdoors.

Spruce Knob

Spruce Knob is hard to beat when it comes to finding that perfect, quiet space to relax in the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area.

Find a View

Kick off your weekend with a drive up to Spruce Knob, the highest point in West Virginia at 4,863 feet. The journey alone is worth it with stunning views around every bend after heavy snowfall. Once you’re at the top, take a short walk to the observation tower. The 360-degree views reveal some of the area’s most beautiful mountains, and they’re even more prominent when they’re dressed in white.

Go Ice Fishing

Just because the temperatures have dropped doesn’t mean you have to do the same with your fishing rod! The 23-acre Spruce Knob Lake is an underrated ice fishing spot. The lake is regularly stocked with trout in the spring and has other fish species including perch, bluegill, sunfish and much more. Cast a line and seclude yourself high up in the mountains with untrammeled snowfall around you.

Before you head out, be sure to purchase your fishing license and familiarize yourself with the regulations.

Seneca Rocks

Just under a 40-minute drive from Spruce Knob, Seneca Rocks is worth a visit while you’re exploring the area.

Take a Hike

Pack your best hiking footwear (or snowshoes) for a scenic, frosty hike! Take the 1.3-mile (2.6 miles round-trip) trail to the top of Seneca Rocks on the Seneca Rocks Hiking Trail. The trailhead begins at the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center, crosses a bridge over Seneca Creek and then ascends the mountain. Once you’ve reached the top, take a break on the observation deck. Here, you can soak in the breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains and valleys below. For an easier hike, try the 0.6-mile Whispering Spruce Trail, which loops through the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area. Be sure to dress warm and download your maps ahead of time, as service here is spotty!

Green Bank

Green Bank is a town that is famous for the impressive Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope. This is the perfect area to explore if you long for a trip that isolates you from phone notifications and radio interference. Explore the Green Bank Observatory, which is home to the largest steerable telescope in the world and has hands-on exhibits and displays that introduce you to the science of radio astronomy. Take a tour and get a feel for the quietness of West Virginia’s National Radio Quiet Zone.

Stay

When you stay in the Potomac Highlands, there are always more charming alternatives to booking a cookie-cutter hotel room.

Yokum’s Vacationland

Located right in the heart of Seneca Rocks, West Virginia, Yokum’s Vacationland has a wide array of accommodations. With tent, teepee and RV camping being popular in the warmer months, winter is the perfect time to enjoy their fully-equipped cabins with hot tubs as well as motel rooms and two apartments. Book an accommodation during the “Off-Season,” which is from Dec. 1 to Feb. 28, and you will enjoy a discounted rate compared to the Peak Season from March 1 to Nov. 30.

Harman’s Luxury Log Cabins

Harman’s Luxury Log Cabins is just over a 10-minute drive away from Seneca Rocks – right in the heart of the Seneca Rocks-Spruce Knob National Recreation Area. Choose from 20 riverside luxury log cabin rentals. These cabins are located on the banks of a private trophy trout stream and have a fully equipped kitchen, TV/DVD with Dish Satellite, Wi-Fi, telephone, a spacious deck, hot tub, gas fireplace and central air and heat.

Eat Local

At less than a 30-minute drive from Seneca Rocks, The Grove Cafe & Bakery in Petersburg is a cozy spot to warm up. Sip on a latte, cappuccino or a simple hot cup of joe while enjoying the quaint atmosphere. Savor sweet bakery treats, or go for a delicious breakfast sandwich combo. Visit The Gateway Restaurant in Riverton to indulge in made-from-scratch comfort foods after a day in the wilderness. Hot roast beef and chicken pot pie are among the favorites served here. Top it off with a delicious slice of pie or a bowl of fresh cobbler. Yokum’s Grill also makes a great spot. This laid-back general store offers bar bites, burgers, wings, wraps and more.

Looking for more to do in the Potomac Highlands? Request our free West Virginia Vacation Guide to get in the winter spirit!

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This post was last updated on November 4, 2024