It doesn’t take long to find a scenic view in Almost Heaven. Acres of rolling hills, waterside cliff views and mountaintop vistas create what feels like a live painting that captures West Virginia’s best features.
While there are many more views that will bring life to your camera roll this summer, here are 10 that truly represent the unique beauty of the Mountain State.
Coopers Rock
Coopers Rock State Forest
For a jaw-dropping view of the Cheat River Canyon, make the short hike on the stone pathway to the main overlook just off the parking area at Coopers Rock State Forest. This iconic overlook is located less than 15 miles away from Morgantown. You can also hike the 1.5-mile Raven Rock Trail to survey the canyon from a different angle and get a close-up view of the towering formation, Raven Rock.
Explorer Tip: Get your selfie taken at the #AlmostHeaven swing on your way to the overlook!
Seneca Rocks
Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area
The 900-foot rock formation, which is popular for rock climbing, oversees the North Fork River and surrounding valley. The 2.6-mile out-and-back Seneca Rocks Hiking Trail leads to the top of Seneca Rocks. To counterbalance the steep incline, this well-maintained trail has switchbacks to reduce its steepness, and there are benches along the way. 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 peak, take a moment to enjoy the view from the observation deck.
You’ll want to also make the drive to the top of Spruce Knob, which is the highest point in the state. An observation tower just beyond the parking area offers breathtaking views atop the 4,863-foot Spruce Mountain.
Lindy Point
Blackwater Falls State Park
The 62-foot Blackwater Falls at Blackwater Falls State Park often steals the show, but you’ll also find some equally beautiful views at Lindy Point Overlook. The 0.4-mile Lindy Point Trail is a fairly flat hike that leads to a wooden observation platform with an unspoiled view of the Blackwater River Canyon. This is one of the most scenic views you’ll encounter in Tucker County.
Explorer Tip: If you’re also exploring Blackwater Falls, be sure to check in on the West Virginia Waterfall Trail and get your selfie taken on the #AlmostHeaven swing!
Cranny Crow
Lost River State Park
Lost River State Park in the Eastern Panhandle offers a quiet getaway with cabin lodging, and it’s also popular among avid hikers. Head to Millers Rock, a 3.5-mile trek that leads to the park’s famous Cranny Crow overlook. From atop the 3,200-foot-perch on Big Ridge Mountain, you can enjoy a scenic panorama of five West Virginia counties.
Grand Vue Park
Moundsville
Imagine exploring the rolling hills and valleys while soaring the sky via a three-hour zip-line canopy tour. At Grand Vue Park, you will get a chance to enjoy a stunning view of the Ohio River from above. If you prefer to keep your feet planted for a relaxing hike, this is also a prime spot for scenic views of Moundsville.
Explorer Tip: Look for the #AlmostHeaven swing and get your selfie taken on it!
Fort Boreman Hill
Parkersburg
While most scenic views in West Virginia require you to be perched high in the sky, Fort Boreman Park allows you to enjoy a vista that doesn’t require a hefty hike. Take in the Ohio River and the town of Parkersburg while at what was once the site of a Union fort during the Civil War (named for the state’s first governor, Arthur Boreman). Here, you will encounter several overlooks that reveal peaceful imagery of the barges and sternwheel boats rolling on the river below.
Maryland Heights
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
While this trail is not on West Virginia soil, Maryland Heights boasts a spectacular view of historic Harpers Ferry at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. This 6.5-mile round-trip hike will take you past the ruins of Union Civil War forts, trenches, gunpowder magazines and infantry encampments. This trail has a few steep, rocky sections.
In Harpers Ferry, you can climb the steps past St. Peter’s Catholic Church to the overlook of Jefferson Rock, which is where President Thomas Jefferson once stood and admired the beauty of the connecting rivers.
Long Point Trail
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
In Fayette County near Fayetteville, Long Point Trail is a must-hike for avid adventurers. The three-mile, out-and-back trail starts ay the Long Point Trail lot just off Newton Road and guides you to a heavily wooded section. The trail is well-maintained and allows for an easy hike. The stunning view of the famous New River Gorge Bridge at the end of this trail makes this hike a rewarding experience.
Hiking tip: If you’re exploring after a heavy rain fall, wear your best hiking footwear as there will be a few muddy sections along the way!
Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory
Monroe County
Atop Peters Mountain is this rustic fire tower, Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory. This fire tower was built in 1956 and functioned as a fire tower until 1972. If you’re into birdwatching, then you’ll really love the view from here. Birders come from all over the globe to observe migrating hawks, eagles, falcons and osprey. Sightseers are enthralled by these amazing birds soaring and swooping over the peaceful valley from an elevation of 3,800 feet.
Carnifex Ferry
Gauley River National Recreation Area
The Gauley River Canyon at Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park boasts stunning views of the Gauley River below. If you look closely, you will spot whitewater rafters navigating the roaring Class V rapids at Pillow Rock during the beloved Gauley Season. The area offers picnicking, primitive camping at the tail waters area, hunting, fishing and whitewater rafting.
There are plenty of other scenic spots to capture for your camera roll. Request our free West Virginia Vacation Guide and share your memories on social media using #AlmostHeaven!
This article: 10 West Virginia Views That Will Make Your Camera Roll Come to Life has been curated from our friends at Visit West Virginia and the original in it's entirety can be found here: https://wvtourism.com/10-west-virginia-views-that-will-make-your-camera-roll-come-to-life/
