West Virginia is a destination rich in history and outdoor recreation, and it’s all yours to explore this autumn. From historical landmarks to high views in the mountains, Almost Heaven will speak to you from every angle.
Pick your national park adventure and explore some of West Virginia’s most unbelievable features.
🌊 New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Have you ever watched our Instagram Reels of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and wished the adventurer standing there was you? With more than 70,000 acres, this national park allows you to live out your dream from anywhere in the park. Go on an epic whitewater rafting trip on the New River, widely known as the second-oldest river in the world. Experience world-class rafting wherever you are in the Gauley River National Recreation Area with rapids ranging from class III to V. Plan an adventure during the weekend after Labor Day, which is when the Summersville Lake Dam starts releasing water into the Gauley River to create “Gauley Season.”
For an experience only found in West Virginia, try Bridge Walk, which allows you to catwalk across the famous New River Gorge Bridge 851 feet above the New River. Another fan-favorite spot to go is Grandview, a scenic spot that perfectly balances peaceful trail adventures and awe-inspiring views. Take a leisurely hike on the 2.9-mile (out-and-back) Long Point Trail for a fantastic panoramic bridge view.
🌄 Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is one of the most unique spots to explore in Almost Heaven, located at the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers. This quaint 19th-century town is filled with historic houses and shops that reflect the town’s history as a transportation hub from 1800 to 1860. Historical landmarks like John Brown’s Fort, Lockwood House, Armory Canal, rustic churches and other original structures remain. Learn more about the nation’s history in local museums, events and walking tours. Take a relaxing walk on the 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail, which weaves through town as its halfway mark between Georgia and Maine. This town is also bike-friendly and makes for a relaxing ride through history.
Want a sweet taste of history? Stop by True Treats Historic Candy, the nation’s only research-based historic candy store specializing in candy from the first in history through the mid-1900s. Sample old-time chocolate or gummy candy. The Vintage Lady is a unique boutique that sells beautiful jewelry, knick-knacks and printed photography to take home with you.
🎣 Bluestone National Scenic River
The Bluestone National Scenic River earned its place as a National Wild and Scenic River thanks to its majestic, secluded beauty. This remarkable 10.5-mile section of river carves through the Appalachian Mountains through southern West Virginia and boasts. This makes an excellent stretch for fishing, hiking, kayaking, hunting and other outdoor recreation activities. Access is best from Bluestone or Pipestem Resort State Park, as this gorge has limited road access.
Keep the adventures going all season long with the help of our FREE West Virginia Vacation Guide!
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