Southern West Virginia Map: The Ultimate Travel Guide
Introduction
Southern West Virginia is a region full of natural beauty, rich history, and adventurous experiences. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or thrill seeker, this map has something for you. From hiking through the Appalachian Mountains to exploring the vibrant nightlife, Southern West Virginia has it all. This comprehensive travel guide will take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and much more.
Top Attractions
New River Gorge Bridge
The New River Gorge Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Southern West Virginia. The bridge spans 3,030 feet over the New River and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can walk across the bridge, bungee jump, or whitewater raft underneath.
Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine
The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine is a unique attraction that takes visitors on an underground tour of a real coal mine. The tour includes a ride on a mine car and a visit to the historic coal camp. Visitors can also explore the museum and learn about the history of coal mining in West Virginia.
Summersville Lake
Summersville Lake is the largest lake in West Virginia and a popular destination for water sports. Visitors can swim, fish, boat, and kayak on the lake. The lake is also surrounded by hiking trails and scenic overlooks.
Hidden Gems
ACE Adventure Resort
The ACE Adventure Resort is a hidden gem for adventure seekers. The resort offers a variety of outdoor activities, including whitewater rafting, zip lining, climbing, and mountain biking. Visitors can also stay in cabins or go camping on the resort’s property.
Lost World Caverns
The Lost World Caverns is a unique underground attraction that features natural rock formations and an underground lake. Visitors can take a guided tour through the caverns and learn about the geology of the area.
Greenbrier River Trail
The Greenbrier River Trail is a 77-mile trail that follows the Greenbrier River through the mountains of Southern West Virginia. The trail is perfect for hiking, biking, or horseback riding. Visitors can also camp along the trail at designated campsites.
Food Scene
Diogi’s Italian Eatery
Diogi’s Italian Eatery is a family-owned restaurant that serves authentic Italian cuisine. The menu includes homemade pasta, seafood, and wood-fired pizza.
Pies & Pints
Pies & Pints is a popular restaurant that serves craft beer and artisan pizza. The menu includes unique pizza toppings like grape tomatoes, sweet potato, and avocado.
Hillbilly Hot Dogs
Hillbilly Hot Dogs is a quirky hot dog stand that serves creative hot dog combinations. Visitors can try hot dogs topped with everything from mac and cheese to Fritos.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Free State Parks
West Virginia has over 30 state parks that offer free admission. Visitors can hike, swim, or picnic in the parks without spending a dime.
Farmer’s Markets
Visiting local farmer’s markets is a great way to save money on food while supporting local businesses. Many farmer’s markets in Southern West Virginia offer fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
Outdoor Activities
Many of the outdoor activities in Southern West Virginia are free or low-cost. Visitors can hike, bike, or swim in the natural beauty of the region without breaking the bank.
Outdoor Adventures
Whitewater Rafting
Southern West Virginia is home to some of the best whitewater rapids in the country. Visitors can take a guided rafting trip on the New River or Gauley River for an adrenaline-pumping experience.
Hiking
The Appalachian Mountains offer endless hiking opportunities for all skill levels. Visitors can choose from short day hikes or multi-day backpacking trips.
Climbing
The New River Gorge is a popular destination for rock climbing. Visitors can take a guided climbing trip or explore the cliffs on their own.
Family-Friendly Activities
West Virginia State Fair
The West Virginia State Fair is an annual event that takes place in August. The fair includes carnival rides, live music, and agricultural exhibits.
Tamarack
Tamarack is a unique shopping and dining destination that showcases West Virginia artisans. Visitors can browse handmade crafts, artwork, and jewelry, and enjoy a meal at the cafe.
Grandview
Grandview is a scenic overlook that offers panoramic views of the New River Gorge. Visitors can hike or picnic in the area while taking in the stunning views.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Mystery Hole
The Mystery Hole is a strange roadside attraction that defies gravity. Visitors can take a guided tour of the attraction and experience the bizarre phenomenon for themselves.
The Greenbrier Bunker
The Greenbrier Bunker is a secret underground bunker that was built during the Cold War. Visitors can take a guided tour of the bunker and learn about its history.
Babcock State Park
Babcock State Park is a hidden gem that features a picturesque grist mill and waterfall. Visitors can hike the park’s trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Natural Wonders
Blackwater Falls
Blackwater Falls is a stunning waterfall that drops 57 feet into a canyon. Visitors can hike the trails around the falls and take in the scenic views.
Cranberry Glades
The Cranberry Glades is a unique ecosystem that features bogs and wetlands. Visitors can hike the boardwalk trail and observe the rare plant and animal species that call the area home.
Seneca Rocks
Seneca Rocks is a towering rock formation that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can hike to the top of the rocks for a panoramic view of the area.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Station
The Station is a popular bar and music venue in Beckley. The venue features live music from local and national acts, as well as craft beer and cocktails.
The Boulevard Tavern
The Boulevard Tavern is a popular dive bar in Charleston that has been around since the 1940s. The bar features live music and a laid-back atmosphere.
The Empty Glass
The Empty Glass is a popular bar in Charleston that features live music and a wide selection of craft beer and cocktails. The bar also hosts open mic nights and poetry readings.
Local Markets
The Capitol Market
The Capitol Market is a year-round market that features fresh produce, artisanal products, and local crafts. Visitors can also enjoy a meal at one of the market’s restaurants.
Bridge Road Bistro Farmer’s Market
The Bridge Road Bistro Farmer’s Market is a weekly market that takes place in Charleston. Visitors can browse local produce, baked goods, and crafts while enjoying live music and food trucks.
Ronceverte River Festival
The Ronceverte River Festival is an annual event that celebrates the Greenbrier River. The festival includes live music, food vendors, and a local market that features handmade crafts and artwork.
Beaches and Mountains
Summersville Lake
Summersville Lake is a popular destination for water sports and beach activities. Visitors can swim, boat, or kayak on the lake, or relax on the beach.
Appalachian Mountains
The Appalachian Mountains offer endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and outdoor adventure. Visitors can explore the mountains on foot, by bike, or on horseback.
Bluestone Lake
Bluestone Lake is a scenic lake that offers boating, fishing, and beach activities. The lake is surrounded by the mountains of Southern West Virginia and offers stunning views.
Cultural Immersion
The West Virginia Mine Wars Museum
The West Virginia Mine Wars Museum is a museum that tells the story of the labor struggles in the coalfields of Southern West Virginia. Visitors can learn about the history of coal mining and the fight for workers’ rights.
Tamarack
Tamarack is a cultural center that showcases West Virginia artisans. Visitors can browse handmade crafts, artwork, and jewelry, and learn about the state’s cultural heritage.
West Virginia State Museum
The West Virginia State Museum is a museum that tells the story of the state’s history and culture. Visitors can learn about