Unplug and Get Outside for National Wilderness Month in Almost Heaven, West Virginia
September is National Wilderness Month, and in West Virginia, that promises plenty of outdoor spots to unplug and explore. From taking a hike in the 920 million-acre Monongahela National Forest to camping under the stars, West Virginia’s picturesque scenery is what makes the Mountain State Almost Heaven.
Enjoy getting outside this month and consider these scenic spots to be your backdrop on your nature exploration.
Hike in the Monongahela National Forest
Within the Monongahela National Forest, you will find several hiking trails that reveal some of West Virginia’s best natural features. Dolly Sods Wilderness, which spans more than 17,000 acres, is known for its unique, high-elevation plateau. Looking for a more remote location within the Monongahela Forest? Look no further than Cranberry Wilderness, which is perfect for backcountry hiking and camping. Laurel Fork Wilderness is located in the Monongahela National Forest in eastern West Virginia, primarily in Randolph County and covers 12,000 acres, featuring serene streams, lush forests and peaceful trails perfect for hiking and backcountry camping.
Go Waterfall Chasing Across the State
With more than 200 waterfalls, West Virginia is the place to be to find a scenic flow of freshwater. You can access 43 of them on the West Virginia Waterfall Trail, which you can check into for a chance to win West Virginia-themed prizes! Blackwater Falls in Blackwater Falls State Park in Tucker County stands at 57 feet tall and whose amber-colored waters twist and tumble through an eight-mile-long gorge. The “black” water is a result of tannic acid from fallen hemlock and red spruce needles. Westerly Falls in Fayette County is a charming, short-dropped waterfall with water plummeting from 5 to 7 feet high. If you’re making a trip to the Northern Panhandle, be sure to explore Oglebay Falls, which is found on the 0.8-mile out-and-back Falls Vista Trail.
Pitch a Tent at a State Park
Want to fall asleep to the white noise created by rustling leaves, chirping crickets and hooting owls? There are many spots to set up camp and become one with the wilderness. Tomlinson Run State Park in the Northern Panhandle lies on nearly 1,400 acres of heavily forested hills with untouched natural, overhanging cliffs of sandstone and shale. Audra State Park in Buckhannon offers 65 campsites (39 with electricity. This state park is a heavily wooded area by the Middle Fork River located in southwestern Barbour County. Deep in the Allegheny Mountains, Blackwater Falls State Park is home to 65 tent and RV sites for you to unplug and enjoy nature.
Get Out on the Water
September is a great time to be out on the waters of Almost Heaven. Summersville is home to West Virginia’s 36th state park, which has plenty of wondrous waterside activity. The 177-acre Summersville Lake State Park in Nicholas County is perfect for flat-water paddling, swimming and kayaking. Tygart Lake State Park in Mountaineer Country is a favorite destination for water recreation and relaxation. This lake stretches 11 miles and boasts boating, swimming, fishing and scuba diving opportunities.
Wanting to speed up the pace? Take on world-class rapids at the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Whitewater rafting is one of the most sought-after activities in Almost Heaven, and here you can experience Class I to Class V rapids. Outfitters like ACE Adventure Resort, Adventures on the Gorge and River Expeditions will provide everything you need for a safe trip.
Adventurer Tip: Beginning on the weekend after Labor Day, Summersville Lake is partially drained into the Gauley River and creates what is known as “Gauley Season.” This is your chance to take on some serious rapids!
Gauley Season dates for 2024
- September: 6–9, 13–16, 20–23, 27–30
- October: 4–6, 12–13, 19–20
The Wilderness is Calling You to #AlmostHeaven
Where are you off to next on your wilderness celebration? Our free West Virginia Vacation Guide has plenty of ideas to keep you going in the great outdoors.
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