The Strangest Road Names in West Virginia and How They Got Them
Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, West Virginia is a patchwork of small towns, winding roads, and storied landscapes where history and local lore shape the very names on the map. Just outside Morgantown, about 50 minutes to the north, the quaint town of Star City offers a glimpse into road names that reflect the quirky spirit of the region. Walk along the streets near Star City Park, where you might find “Fool’s Creek Road.” This name dates back to a local tale of early settlers who tried to navigate the tricky creek crossings and were famously called fools for their repeated misadventures. The park itself has easy trails along the creek that showcase seasonal wildflowers and the gentle sounds of rushing water, making it a peaceful spot to contemplate why some names stick while others fade.
Further south, in the charming town of Lewisburg, roughly two hours southeast of Charleston, you’ll encounter “Dismal Creek Road,” which leads toward the Greenbrier River Trail. This trail meanders 77 miles through some of the state’s most serene forested landscapes and follows the river’s course through tunnels and historic railbeds. The road’s ominous name contrasts with the lush surroundings and is said to originate from early travelers’ complaints about the muddy, swampy conditions that made the route feel “dismal.” The trail’s gentle grade makes it perfect for hiking and biking in spring and fall when the leaves blaze with color, offering more uplifting scenery than the name suggests.
In the tiny community of Thurmond, located in the New River Gorge National Park about 45 minutes south of Beckley, “Lick Branch Road” leads adventurers to ruins and stories of the old coal town. The name “Lick Branch” comes from natural salt licks that once attracted wildlife and, later, hunters and settlers. Thurmond itself is a ghost town frozen in time, with preserved structures and an old railway depot that tell the tale of West Virginia’s coal mining heyday. Visitors can explore the Thurmond Depot Museum and hike nearby trails that trace the New River Gorge’s dramatic cliffs. Fall is an especially magical time here, when the forest explodes in reds and golds, making the rugged landscape even more memorable.
Just north of Charleston, a short drive of about 25 minutes, lies the historic town of Poca, home to “Moaning Creek,” a name that has inspired local ghost stories for generations. The creek is best experienced at the Poca River Park, where visitors can stroll along the waterside trails or fish in the calm spots. The name is believed to come from the eerie sounds produced by the creek’s rushing water and wind through the trees, which early residents described as a moan. This atmospheric spot is a favorite for photographers especially on misty mornings or crisp autumn evenings when the natural ambiance feels almost supernatural.
Near Harpers Ferry, approximately an hour east of Winchester, Virginia, “Lick Run Road” twists through Jefferson County. This area is steeped in Civil War history, with the nearby Harpers Ferry National Historical Park offering ranger-led tours, exhibits on John Brown’s raid, and panoramic views from Jefferson Rock overlooking the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. The road’s name again points to a natural salt lick used by animals, a common naming motif in the region. Exploring the trails around the park in spring reveals wild rhododendrons and mountain laurels in full bloom, adding floral charm to historic ruggedness.
In the heart of Charleston, the state capital about 90 minutes southwest of Morgantown, “Twisted Gun Road” piques curiosity with its unusual name. This urban road’s name reportedly stems from a story dating back to the Revolutionary War era when a local militia member’s firearm was damaged in a skirmish, twisting the gun barrel and rendering it unusable. Today, visitors can enjoy the nearby Kanawha State Forest, a sprawling green space with more than 25 miles of multi-use trails offering everything from easy nature walks to challenging mountain biking routes. The forest bursts with color in the fall, making a trip here much more inviting than the grim story behind the road’s name might suggest.
Traveling west from Huntington, about 20 minutes by car, the small community of Guyandotte is home to “Pineapple Road,” a name that stands out in a state better known for its mountains and coal than tropical fruits. The name reportedly comes from a local family nickname rather than any botanical reason, adding a layer of mystery. Guyandotte itself is a historic district with charming 19th-century architecture and riverfront parks along the Ohio River. The Guyandotte Riverwalk invites visitors to stroll, bike, or simply relax by the water, especially during summer festivals when the town pulses with music and energy.
Each of these roads offers more than just a name; they invite travelers to uncover stories embedded in West Virginia’s landscape. From eerie creeks to tales of frontier folly, the state’s strangest road names serve as gateways to its rich heritage and natural wonders, making any journey here a memorable adventure grounded in place.