You Won’t Believe these Unique Spring Adventures are in West Virginia
When the flowers and greenery return to their peak vibrance, the rolling hills of West Virginia come to life. From one-of-a-kind rock climbing opportunities to stunning views from a historic fire tower, Almost Heaven has the spring charm you’ve been waiting for after a snowy, adventure-filled winter.
This spring, make room on your calendar for some of the most unique explorations you’ll ever experience.
Bridge Walk
Bridge Walk isn’t just a walk with a view; it’s like walking into a living painting. This view will rank high on your list of favorites as you follow the path among the structural beams of the New River Gorge Bridge at 851 feet above the New River. A unique belay system keeps you harnessed at all times while your guide educates you on the history of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.
Via Ferrata
Ascend the mountains of the Potomac Highlands like never before with NRocks Outdoor Adventures. Here, you will find the Via Ferrata, which takes rock climbing to another level. This climbing route contains metal rungs that stick out of the rocks and cables to hook into as you climb. The Via Ferrata was the second to be introduced in the United States, one of only three. Climb hundreds of feet up the unique rock formations while partaking in several-hour tours, including a wooden bridge that spans 150 feet and rises more than 200 feet above the forest.
Chase Waterfalls
Did you know West Virginia introduced the nation’s first-ever statewide Waterfall Trail? You’ll love exploring all 43 waterfalls and can even win special waterfall-themed prizes after checking off so many! Check-in at iconic spots like Blackwater Falls, Elakala Falls, Cathedral Falls and others. Chasing waterfalls in Almost Heaven makes the perfect springtime activity.
Some waterfalls have an #AlmostHeaven Swing nearby, so remember to take a picture of it and share your new memory on social media! 🤳
Visit the World’s Largest Steerable Telescope
If you love astronomy or enjoy being in a place where you can hear a pin drop, head to the Potomac Highlands and tour the largest fully steerable telescope. At Green Bank Observatory, look closely at the 8,500-ton telescope operating in a National Radio Quiet Zone. Learn in-depth about radio waves and the telescope’s history, and take a campus bus tour. See why credible publications like Thrillest and Travel + Leisure featured this incredible spectacle.
Make sure you download your navigation directions beforehand as you’ll be without internet service. If you forget, the friendly locals are keen to help!
Hop on an Island
You don’t have to take a cruise ship to experience the life of an islander. Turn back the clock and take a 20-minute sternwheel riverboat ride to Blennerhassett Island in Parkersburg. This small island in the Ohio River is home to Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park. Here you can tour a replica of the original Palladian mansion that was there in the 1800s. Once on the island, enjoy tours of the mansion, rent a bicycle, relax at the #AlmostHeaven Swing and hop on a horse-drawn carriage ride. Take a slice of the island with you from the gift shop and enjoy lunch at the outdoor seating area. Island visits are offered beginning in May until the last weekend of October.
Ready to get adventurous this spring? Get more inspiration from our FREE West Virginia Vacation Guide to learn more!
Send Me My Vacation GuideSpring into #AlmostHeaven
This post was last updated on February 18, 2025