Last-Minute Adventures to Add to Your West Virginia Summer Bucket List
It’s official: the West Virginia 2024 Summer Bucket List is the activity of the summer! Enjoy weekend adventures and make lasting memories by traveling around this beloved state with your friends and family. After completing all ten items, don’t forget to enter to win a free fall getaway – it is definitely worth it! Check out these last-minute adventures to complete your Bucket List by August 14th.
Waterfall
Coonskin Grotto
Located outside of Charleston, Coonskin Grotto is a collection of beautiful short cascades that spill into a shallow sandstone cave. It is tucked away in the wooded acres of Coonskin Park and can be reached by following the Alice Knight Memorial Trail for about 0.3 miles.
Mill Creek Falls of Hawks Nest
Nestled along the Hawks Nest Rail Trail in Hawks Nest State Park is Mill Creek Falls. A 20-foot cascade, Mill Creek Falls are the largest falls found along the trail and offer gorgeous views year-round.
Traveler Tip: Looking to check another waterfall off the West Virginia Waterfall Trail? Continue on the rail trail towards Hawk’s Nest Marina and then onto Fisherman’s Trail to catch a glimpse of the beautiful Turkey Creek Falls.
Sandstone Falls
Located inside of one of the nation’s newest national parks, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Sandstone Falls spans over 1,500 feet wide and features a series of falls divided by small islands. Enjoy these falls by walking along the ADA accessible boardwalk for picturesque views and explore the nearby collections of wildflowers along the river.
Road Trip
Capitol Circle
Capitol Circle is a 6-hour loop that takes you through 200 miles of the bustling Metro Valley region. Experience Charleston, Hawk’s Nest State Park, Fayetteville, Beckley, Pineville, Hinton, Logan, and Teays Valley, and enjoy a beautiful drive through the mountains of Almost Heaven. You won’t want to miss out on this adventure!
Cranberry Corridor
This 5-hour drive twists and turns through the beauty of the Mountain Lakes region. Get out and explore places like Summersville, Cranberry Glades, Marlinton, Greenbrier County and Fayette County. Cranberry Corridor is the perfect loop for a day trip in the Mountain State!
Birdeye Bend
Birdeye Bend stretches 175 miles in a loop around the Mountaineer Country region. Along this four-and-a-half hour drive, venture to places such as Morgantown, Kingwood, Rowlesburg, Parsons, Elkins, Phillipi, Clarksburg and Fairmont. Get out and explore the hidden treasures of northern West Virginia!
Natural Wonder
Seneca Rocks
Seneca Rocks is known as one of the most popular landmarks in West Virginia and has attracted hikers and rock climbers for decades. Located in Monongahela National Forest, Seneca Rocks rises nearly 900 feet above the North Fork River. Visitors can brave the self-guided 1.3-mile hike to experience the one-of-a-kind views or gather at the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center to enjoy views from below and purchase a souvenir.
Lost World Caverns
Located just outside of Lewisburg, Lost World Caverns is a series of natural underground caverns that descend 120 feet below the Earth’s surface. They offer a variety of tours, including a 45-minute self-guided tour and a 4-6 hour Wild Cave Tour. This magical adventure is the perfect day trip and is great for all ages!
Pinnacle Rock
This large stone outcrop inside Pinnacle Rock State Park offers scenic overlooks, picnic areas and a variety of biking and hiking trails. Located near Bramwell in Mercer County, Pinnacle Rock State Park has easily become a picture-perfect spot for visitors.
Local Restaurant
Picnic
Enjoy a variety of fresh, flavorful dishes from Picnic in Thomas, West Virginia. A small shop on the end of the main downtown strip, Picnic is known for its beautifully crafted tacos and fun drinks. This is a stop you won’t want to miss!
Pizzas and Cream
Located down in Clay County in Nebo, West Virginia, Pizzas and Cream has quickly become a local favorite. Order delicious wood-fired pizzas while enjoying this one-of-a-kind dining experience in a mountainside backyard, and finish off the night with a cup of ice cream, gelato or Italian ice!
The Peddler
The Peddler, located in Huntington, is famous for its unique burgers, tasty sandwiches and duck fat fries. This brewery and arcade offer a fun dining experience, as well as fresh ingredients with a special grind of organic hormone-free Certified Angus Beef. This is the perfect place for a fun dinner with family or a night out with friends!
Overnight Adventure
Tygart Hotel
This historic boutique hotel in Elkins, West Virginia was recently renovated and boasts 56 beautifully-designed guest rooms. The Tygart Hotel also features an art gallery, restaurant, cocktail bar, conference and meeting rooms and event center. This is the perfect place to stay for a relaxing weekend in the Potomac Highlands or a big week-long event.
Bavarian Inn
The Bavarian Inn continues to be one of the most unique lodging options in the Mountain State, featuring several European-inspired chalets in the cute small town of Shepherdstown. Built in Alpine Tradition, these staterooms feature modern furnishings and amenities, with some including sitting areas, gas fireplaces and whirlpool baths. While you’re there, don’t forget to check out Bavarian Brewing Company, which offers delicious cuisine, seasonal beers made on-site and comfortable areas for lounging and dining with friends.
Loves Way Village
Nestled in the mountains of Hardy County, Loves Way Village is a collection of glamping tents that offer appliances, linens, electricity and AC/heating systems. The property also offers access to bathrooms, a grilling area, corn hole, a volleyball court and a fire pit. Hungry? Loves Way Village offers Love Boxes, which are easy-to-make meals that can be pre-ordered when making your reservation.
Water Excursion
Adventures on the Gorge
As one of America’s premier adventure resorts, Adventures on the Gorge offers water excursions for all ages. Test the rapids on a whitewater rafting adventure, or try kayaking, fishing or stand-up paddle boarding. Looking for an adventure on land? Check out their aerial canopy tours, zip lining, e-bike riding, ropes courses and more. There is always plenty to do!
Sutton Lake Marina
Located in the heart of West Virginia, Sutton Lake is full of adventure for people of all ages. Head to the Sutton Lake Marina to check out rentals for boats, jet skis and paddle boards. The double deck – double slide boats are a favorite, offering a bathroom, grill, Bluetooth speakers, seating for 18 people and double water slides!
ACE Adventure Resort
Located beside the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, ACE Adventure Resort is one of the most popular spots in the state. Have a lifetime of fun at the ACE Adventure Lake or enjoy one of their various activities, including whitewater rafting, zip-lining, rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking and more. The resort is also home to the Mountain Music Festival and offers a variety of lodging and dining options.
Park or Public Land
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Find yourself at the center of Civil War history and the beautiful scenery of the Mountain State. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park has an endless list of activities for family and friends, such as overlook hikes, strolls through picturesque streets, museums, shops, restaurants, bookshops and more. This a town you definitely need to visit at least once!
Chief Logan State Park
This state park has become the perfect destination for daytime travelers and overnight campers. Located in the heart of West Virginia’s southern coalfields, Chief Logan State Park is one of the most-visited state parks in the West Virginia State Parks System. It features a campground with 26 units, a swimming pool with a waterslide, a museum, an outdoor amphitheater, hiking trails and picnic shelters. There is so much to explore!
Audra State Park
Situated near the cute town of Buckhannon, Audra State Park is the perfect place to show off West Virginia’s natural beauty. Stay at one of its 65 campsites, take to the river for a quick dip, and explore one of its many hiking trails. You’ll never get tired of being surrounded by the peaceful woods of Barbour and Upshur County!
Mountain Town
Shepherdstown
Home to Shepherd University, Shepherdstown is a quaint town located in the Eastern Panhandle region of West Virginia. It is known as the oldest town in West Virginia (tied with Romney) and has a plethora of restaurants, inns, shops and activities to explore. Grab a bite at Bistro 112, pick up a new read at Four Seasons Books and spend the night in the historic Thomas Shepherd Inn.
Fairmont
Located in the hills of Mountaineer Country, Fairmont is known for being the birthplace of the pepperoni roll as well as home to Fairmont State University. Check out nearby Valley Falls State Park and Prickett’s Fort State Park and stop in the iconic Muriale’s Italian Restaurant and Catering. In the mood for a sweet treat? Grab some ice cream at the Poky Dot or Dairy Creme Corner.
Wheeling
Known as the state’s former capital, Wheeling is full of historic treasures and natural beauty. History buffs praise the Capitol Theatre, Independence Hall, and the Wheeling Suspension Bridge. During your visit to this Northern Panhandle town, don’t forget to stop by the bustling Centre Market and popular Oglebay Resort (and zoo!).
Almost Heaven Swing
Snowshoe Mountain
This bundle of beauty can be found in the lowermost part of the Potomac Highlands region. Stay at the Snowshoe Mountain Resort and explore local flavors, pop in delightful shops, take to Shaver’s Lake, or take a scenic ride up a ski lift. There is so much to do – you can even take a Summer Off-Road Adventure Dining Tour! To find the Almost Heaven Swing, head to the top of the Skidder Ski Slope.
Huntington
Huntington, home of the Marshall University Thundering Herd, has a lot going for it. Explore downtown by wandering through the unique shops lining Pullman Square and 3rd and 4th Avenue, grabbing a bite at Backyard Pizza or the Peddler, stopping in The Market for a sweet treat at Austin’s Homemade Ice Cream, and exploring the rich history of its buildings and homes. Finish off your adventure by stopping by the beautiful Ritter Park and visiting Rotary Park to check Huntington’s Almost Heaven Swing off of your list.
Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park
Located inside the United States National Radio Quiet Zone, Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park is a quiet, historic park that is part of the Civil War Discovery Trail. During your visit, enjoy camping, hiking, museums, scenic train rides, picnics and a lookout tower with scenic views of the West Virginia mountains. Don’t forget to check off your Almost Heaven Swing, which can be found next to the lookout tower!
Hike
Long Point Trail
This trail, with its panoramic views and scenic overlooks of the New River Gorge and New River Gorge Bridge, is easily one of the most popular trails in the state. The Long Point Trail is a moderate 3.2-mile hike (1.6 miles one way) and is great for both hikers and bikers. Gather your friends and family and head to Fayetteville – you do not want to miss out on this adventure!
Raven Rock Trail
Located inside Coopers Rock State Forest near Morgantown, Raven Rock Trail is a thing of beauty. This moderate 2.6-mile hike provides gorge-ous views of the Cheat River Gorge and is great for hikers, bikers, and dogs. The views will not disappoint!
Glade Creek Falls
Found along the Glade Creek Trail in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Glade Creek Falls creates a spectacular view with its picturesque cascades rushing over sandstone ledges. To reach this favored destination, head to the Glade Creek Campground and take the 1-mile hike to the falls.
Looking to plan your next adventure? Request your free vacation guide to learn more.
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