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 State will satisfy your desire for adventure. This 9-day road trip will take you from the Eastern Panhandle of Almost Heaven, all the way back up to the Northern Panhandle.

Take this trip in its whole or pick and choose different sections to complete over a few weekends. No matter where you are going, any time spent on our country roads is Almost Heaven.

Day 1: Eastern Panhandle

Start your travels at the Ledge House Bed and Breakfast. The view overlooks where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet and snake through the town of Harpers Ferry. The bed and breakfast is light-filled and has a wraparound porch for guests to be able to take in the views or even enjoy their breakfast made with locally grown produce.

It’s a quick walk or drive from the downtown area, hiking spots, as well as Civil War points of interest, including a Civil War Museum. Harpers Ferry is unique because it doesn’t only cater to the outdoorsy type of person, but those who would prefer to spend more time doing things indoors as well. For example, there are plenty of yummy places to dine, local wineries open for tastings, shopping, and many entertainment options for the arts and culture enthusiasts.

Day 2: Potomac Highlands

Switch gears and change paces in the beautiful mountains of Cabins at North Fork Mountain Inn. A few of the state’s most noticeable land formations are a close drive away from the inn. Smoke Hole Caverns, being the closest, is less than 10 miles down the road. Spruce Knob and Seneca Rocks are less than 40 miles from the bed and breakfast and the views are worth every mile of the drive.

If you choose to catch up on rest and relaxation; however, the couple that owns the inn will be sure to take good care of you. Carol, one of the owners, might even bake you something sweet to snack on. The grand vistas will make you want to spend an extra night there and plan another trip back too.

Day 3: Mountaineer Country

After your restful day in the Potomac Highlands catch a few more views as you head up north to the bustling mountain town of Morgantown. Check into the newly renovated Hotel Morgan, where historic charm and modern elegance converge. Head to Coopers Rock State Forest to enjoy a breathtaking view before heading back to town. Grab a bite to eat at the Iron Horse Tavern and spend the rest of your evening soaking up the energy of Morgantown’s nightlife.

Start your day with a quick drive down to Phillipi where you can enjoy the town’s historic covered bridge before heading further south.

Day 4: Mountain Lakes

Just a quick 20-minutes down the road from Phillipi, Audra State Park is on the way to your next destination and isn’t too far off the beaten path. Much of the park is shaded by wooded areas and is the perfect place for a picnic stop or a quick fishing cast into the Middle Fork River.

After you have had your fill of adventure in Audra State Park head south to Summersville for an Almost Heaven take on the classic tropical getaway. Enjoy a day on the water of Summersville Lake (aka the Bahamas of the East) and retire to a cozy cabin at the Summersville Lake Retreat.

Day 5: New River / Greenbrier Valley

Any trip to Almost Heaven is never complete without a visit to the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve. Resist the urge to head straight to the river and drive to ACE Adventure Resort in Oak Hill. Check into a cozy cabin or take to an open-air campsite to get youself settled. After enjoying the quiet allure of the mountains it is time for some adventure.

Whether you book a half-day rafting excursion or try your hand at rock climbing, adventures with ACE will put you right in the heart of the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve. Be sure to catch a glimpse of the iconic New River Bridge before heading back into home-base for the night.

Day 6: Hatfield-McCoy Mountains

Today, head to one of the most quaint, small towns in West Virginia—Matewan. But don’t overlook this town based on the size, it’s home to one of the state’s most notable claims to fame. Matewan is where much of the Hatfield-McCoy feuding took place.

The Historic Matewan House Bed and Breakfast has fun, West Virginia-themed suites, such as the “coal room” and “almost heaven room” for guests to choose from. Right across the street from the bed and breakfast is the location of the 1920 Matewan Massacre. You also won’t want to miss out on a tour of the infamous Hatfield-McCoy feuding sites, given by actual relatives of the Hatfield clan.

Day 7: Metro Valley

The next stop on the road trip will lead you to Huntington. You’re bound to experience Appalachian history like you never have before at the Heritage Farm Museum & VillageWhile staying in one of the five cabins on the property, you’ll get to live like a true pioneer and totally disconnect from reality for a night.

Heritage Farm Museum & Village has many entertainment opportunities so you won’t even have to leave its grounds. From historical exhibits to interactive folk crafts and a brand new Adventure Park complete with zip-lines, you’ll be completely immersed in all this unique place has to offer.

Day 8: Mid-Ohio Valley

Head two hours up the road to beautiful Parkersburg for a day of fun in and out of town. Check into the regal Blennerhassett Hotel where you will be met with the historic charm that only a hotel in existence for more than a century can possess.

Head to Point Park where you can board the Iron Belle for a quick ferry ride to Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park. Once on the island, peruse the grounds on a rental bike or take an official tour of the historic mansion.

Day 9: Northern Panhandle

After 8 days of non-stop adventure, you have earned yourself some relaxation. Take a drive up to Wheeling where you will check into Oglebay Resort for a refreshing final day of vacation. While we won’t blame you for relaxing in bed all day, adventure is around every corner at Oglebay.

Enjoy a game of golf or head to the Good Zoo where you will find exotic creatures of all kinds. Round out your day with a luxurious service at Oglebay’s West Spa– you’ve earned it!

Taking a road trip truly is the best way to experience West Virginia. Pack your bags, fill up your gas tank, grab your 2021 Vacation Guide and hit the road. The mountains are calling your name.

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This post was last updated on May 25, 2021