Take the long way home: Springtime Scenic Drives

Springtime gifts West Virginia with lush-green forests, brightly-colored wildflowers and the sweet-smelling aroma of new beginnings. Immerse yourself in all that Almost Heaven has to offer by taking a scenic drive through the state this spring. Roll your windows down, turn your radio up and set out on an exploration like no other. On the way, you’ll find that in Almost Heaven, every route is scenic.

Views Upon Views

On these scenic drives, nature greets you with breathtaking beauty and unforgettable sights. Majestic mountain views, winding roads and springtime vibes await you.

Not only is there plenty to do within the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, but there is also plenty to see. A drive over the New River Gorge Bridge allows a panoramic view of beautiful blue skies, a shining sun and mountains newly-adorned in green. From this point of view, these rolling hills appear to go on forever. Looking for more time to soak in this view? Bridge Walk facilitates guided tours on the underside of the New River Gorge Bridge.

Little Kanawha Parkway also provides picture-perfect views of springtime in Almost Heaven. This 77-mile drive along the Little Kanawha River truly takes you on a sightseeing adventure. While on this route, take in the beauty of the river, farmland and forests between Mineral Wells and Flatwood.

A Drive Back in Time

The routes within West Virginia are built upon extensive history and rich culture. If you’re interested in both looking and learning, Almost Heaven has a scenic drive for you.

To experience one-of-a-kind views and learn about one-of-a-kind places, embark on the Coal Heritage Trail. This driving trail spans over thirteen counties and offers insight into the history of Southern West Virginia’s coal industry. Feel free to make a few stops along the way to learn even more. This will be a great way to stretch your legs on this 98-mile drive. After exploring Southern West Virginia, take a trip to the north. In Wheeling, the Historical National Road will guide you through a 15.7-mile history lesson, taking you through the Wheeling Suspension Bridge. In fact, this was the world’s largest suspense bridge from 1849 to 1851. On this scenic drive, West Virginia history meets world history.

Night Lights

Though the sun may set, scenic drives in West Virginia know no curfew. Day and night, Almost Heaven has something to show you.

Night sky and setting sun, West Virginia

Though it may be lighter for longer these days, you may find yourself exploring into the evening. Though grand, distinctive mountains turn into dark silhouettes, you’ll still have plenty to see. The pitch darkness of night is interrupted by the sparkle of innumerable stars. You may need to pull over to truly observe the grandeur of such a starry sight.

In addition to these starry scenes, the lively lights of West Virginia’s cities are vibrant after hours. Though slightly off the beaten path, ask locals about the Overlook in the capital city of Charleston. Your view will include the beauty of a lit Capitol building in the distance and rows upon rows of city lights.

Will you be cruising through West Virginia this spring? Check out our Exclusive Country Roads Edition Vacation Guide for more scenic drive inspiration through Almost Heaven.


Travelers are encouraged to check the status of individual businesses and to review all Travel Responsibly guidelines before taking a trip.

This post was last updated on May 25, 2023