Making Waves in West Virginia
By Kellie Walton
West Virginia may claim the southern spotlight each winter thanks to its stunning mountains, ski resorts, and plethora of cold weather activities. But, a summertime getaway to the Mountain State is just as dreamy, and we’re gathering up all the reasons why. From sunny lakeside retreats to adrenaline-filled adventures, fantastic food, and impressive waterworks, make a trip to West Virginia a priority this summer (and likely every summer thereafter).
Lakeside Retreats
Lakes and summertime go hand-in-hand—there’s something oh so nostalgic about smelling the combination of sunscreen, boat fuel, lakewater, and cold beer. Haul the boat or rent one when you visit West Virginia in the summer, then prepare to float all your worries away. The waterways here lend themselves to swimming, boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing across more than 28,000 acres of water, 60 miles of shoreline, and rows of cliffs ready for diving.
Summersville Lake is the state’s biggest, and its name alone should clue you in to its status as a must-visit in the summertime. Located in Nicholas County, plan to launch a boat along with other lake goers, or opt for a hike along the scenic shoreline. Just outside of buzzy Roanoke sits Stonewall Jackson Lake, named for the confederate leader, that spans more than 2,600 feet. Anglers in particular love it here, as it's densely populated with fish like bass, walleye, and crappie. On the south side of the city, visit Sutton Lake to take your adventure from day to night. After casting a line or making a splash on the water all day, pitch a tent at a campsite for an evening of toasted marshmallows and wildlife peeping.
wvstateparks.com/summersville
suttonlakemarina.com
Whitewater Adventures
Prefer your summers with a dose of adrenaline? West Virginia has you covered. It’s home to the highest density of whitewater runs in the entire country, so your options for a rip roaring adventure are seemingly endless. America’s newest national park, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, has a whitewater river flowing right through it and is a must-visit to see the latest and greatest outdoor treasure. If you’re interested in a tried and true favorite instead, head to the Lower New River in Fayetteville.
Book a journey with ACE Adventures Resort, which double dips as an adventure company and a lodging option. Here, you can book a whitewater rafting adventure, buy all-day passes to the onsite waterpark, and then retreat to a secluded cabin to unwind after a fun-filled day. As an added bonus, there are multiple dining options and even nightlife onsite.
aceraft.com
Waterfall Chasing
Locals and visitors alike have enjoyed chasing West Virginia’s waterfalls so much, the state created an official waterfall trail. To participate, download the free mobile passport and use the official trip planner to map your route. Along the way, you can earn prizes by checking in at different points. There are more than 200 waterfalls around the state, so you’d be hard-pressed to see them all (although we may be up for the challenge). Popular falls include Blackwater and Sandstone, but also features hidden gems like Finn’s in the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve and Drawdy in Boone County.
Sandstone Falls is the state’s largest, tucked in the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve. The falls span a whopping 1,500 feet broken up by smaller islands. There’s a boardwalk nearby where you can safely walk along the falls. Photography aficionado? We recommend a trip to Babcock State Park to see Glade Creek Grist Mill Falls. It’s a sight to behold, making it one of the most photographed spots in West Virginia. For a more off-the-beaten path option, head to Charleston’s Coonskin Park to see a hidden waterfall called The Grotto. It has three short cascades that converge in a shallow cave.
wvtourism.com/west-virginia-waterfall-trail
All the Eats
You’ll need plenty of fuel for all of that adventuring, and West Virginia’s culinary scene is up to the task. Plan your trip around the West Virginia Culinary Trail, which features 27 restaurants all across the state. Each restaurant was hand selected by a panel of chef ambassadors, so you can rest assured they’ll knock your socks off. While you’ll find some local fare centered around Appalachian flavors, there’s a mix of international spots as well.
Visit Cham’s Lebanese Cuisine in Parkersburg for excellent pita wraps, hummus, and stews, or enjoy Italian flavors at Nebo’s Pizzas and Cream—there are 20 specialty wood-fired pizza on the menu, and an impressive collection of gourmet ice creams and gelatos to choose from. A standout here is Cathedral Cafe in Fayetteville, which is housed inside a historic cathedral converted into a restaurant. If you’re looking for a one-stop foodie shop, head to the small town of Lewisburg for an impressive lineup of dining options. Grab breakfast at the quaint Amy’s Market, lunch at the Humble Tomato, and dinner and drinks at the German-inspired Briergarten.
wvtourism.com/west-virginia-culinary-trail-explore-the-flavors-of-almost-heaven
visitlewisburgwv.com
Outdoor Adventures
Much like the ski resorts in the winter, West Virginia is ripe with adventure options in the summer months. And the best part? There’s something for all ages, making it perfect for multi-generational and family travel. The whole family will enjoy a hike through one of West Virginia’s 45 state parks, which are filled with views, wildlife, and unexpected surprises around every turn. We’ve highlighted while New River Gorge is a must visit, but the crown jewel is its 3,000-foot-long bridge that towers 876 feet high. A drive across the bridge is a must—look down at your own discretion!
Continue your family-friendly adventure by towering above the state on an aerial excursion. Head to Pipestem Peaks at Pipestem Resort State Park, where you can get a bird’s eye view of Bluestone Gorge on one of four zip lines ranging from 1,000 to 1,700 feet in length. Hold on tight, the speed maxes out at 50 miles per hour. There’s plenty of on-the-ground adventure here, too, with both traditional and mini golf courses, riding stables, hiking trails, picnic shelters, pools, and plenty of lodging options.
wvstateparks.com/park/pipestem-resort-state-park
Climbing and Caving
Thrill seekers, you can get your danger fix all across the state by rock climbing or cave diving. New River Gorge is the place to be for this, offering more than 1,400 climbing routes on sandstone cliffs. It’s one of the top destinations for climbing in the entire region, offering options that vary in difficulty to appease all skill levels. The Endless Wall is one of the most popular routes, stretching two miles. Across from the New River Gorge Bridge stands Bridge Buttress, which offers impeccable views of the area.
Another premier destination for climbing and caverns is Seneca Rocks, which has a “razorback” formation that looks like it may have served as inspiration for dragon scales in a popular fantasy series. The iconic destination may be extra challenging, but the views and photo opps are certainly worth it. Also in the area is Seneca Caverns, a large cave system housing plenty of formations like stalactites, stalagmites, and underground streams. If you’re looking for even more caves to explore, Greenbrier Valley is the spot for you. One of the caverns spans a thousand feet across and towers twelve stories high, packed with glittering columns and tons of historic spaces—including a secret Cold War bunker with a door that can withstand a nuclear explosion.
greenbrierwv.com
