Top 20 Outdoor Adventures in West Virginia
Nestled just a half-hour south of Morgantown, Coopers Rock State Forest offers a dramatic introduction to West Virginia’s outdoor allure. The forest’s rugged cliffs and sweeping overlooks crown Cheat Lake and the Cheat River Gorge, creating a perfect vantage for hikers. The predominant trail, the Coopers Rock Loop, spans about 5.8 miles and winds through dense hardwood forest, but the real prize is the overlook itself—a rocky outcrop jutting over 1,200 feet above the gorge. This vantage point is particularly stunning in the fall when the foliage ignites in fiery reds and golds, making it a prime season to witness nature’s grand spectacle.
Farther south near Beckley, the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve has become a magnet for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Just a 45-minute drive from the city, the park’s iconic Endless Wall Trail offers a moderately challenging 2.4-mile loop hugging the rim of the gorge, providing hikers panoramic views of the New River, one of the oldest rivers in North America. The area’s sandstone cliffs attract rock climbers from across the globe, but for those preferring to stay grounded, the Suspension Bridge Walkway gives a pedestrian path across the famous New River Gorge Bridge, unveiling breathtaking views 850 feet above the river below. Spring and early fall bring mild weather perfect for hiking and climbing before the summer heat or winter chills settle in.
In the eastern panhandle near Harpers Ferry, the appalachian charm of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park doubles as a gateway to outdoor adventures. Less than an hour from Washington, D.C., this park offers the Maryland Heights Trail, a strenuous 2.5-mile climb rewarded with sweeping views of the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers and the quaint town below. This spot is historically rich, too—where the Civil War’s echoes still linger among the preserved buildings and museum exhibits. Early morning hikes here are magical, with mist rising over the rivers and the town slowly waking.
West of Charleston, the Kanawha State Forest beckons with over 9,300 acres of rolling woodlands just 10 minutes from the city center. Its network of singletrack mountain biking trails has garnered national attention, especially the Kanawha Trail, a technical course weaving through hilly terrain that challenges riders of all levels. Beyond biking, the forest’s well-marked hiking paths, like the Hawk’s Nest Trail, offer gentler options to spot native wildlife such as deer and songbirds amid towering oaks and maples. Fall transforms the forest into a kaleidoscope of color, making it a favored season for both bikers and hikers.
Traveling toward the northern border, Blackwater Falls State Park, located about a half-hour northeast of Elkins, is famous for its striking 62-foot waterfall. The falls cascade over amber-colored sandstone, tinted by tannins from fallen hemlock and red spruce needles, giving the water a distinctive hue that is unforgettable. The park’s Falls Loop Trail, a moderate 1.5-mile path, allows visitors to experience multiple viewpoints of the falls and the surrounding gorge. Winter cloaks the falls in a sparkling ice sculpture, transforming the scene into a serene, almost otherworldly landscape, ideal for photography and quiet contemplation.
In the southeastern reaches near Lewisburg, the Greenbrier River Trail spans 78 miles through the lush river valley but the section around the town is a favorite for pedaling and strolling. Accessible within a short drive of Lewisburg, this mostly flat, crushed-limestone trail follows the meandering Greenbrier River, passing historic railroad trestles and quiet fishing spots. The trail’s gentle terrain and scenic water views attract families and casual bikers, with fall presenting a canopy of colors reflected in the river’s calm surface.
For those drawn to high elevations and expansive vistas, Spruce Knob in the Monongahela National Forest stands as West Virginia’s highest peak at 4,863 feet. Located about two hours east of Morgantown, the summit is accessible via a short but steep hike from the parking area on Spruce Knob Road. The Spruce Knob Observation Tower offers a panoramic view of the Allegheny Mountains, where the dense spruce and fir forests create a cool, alpine atmosphere rarely found this far south. Summer evenings bring a refreshing respite from the lowland heat, perfect for camping at the nearby Spruce Knob Campground and stargazing under pristine dark skies.
Near the southern edge of the state, the Bluestone National Scenic River winds through a deep gorge close to Bluefield, roughly 10 miles away. Paddling enthusiasts can navigate the tranquil river, which offers gentle rapids suitable for beginners. The Bluestone River Trail runs alongside, providing a forested escape with occasional views of the river’s emerald pools. The area’s blend of geological history—visible in the towering cliffs and fossil-rich rock formations—and its peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect summer retreat for anglers, kayakers, and hikers seeking solitude.
Close to the Ohio River in the northern panhandle, Oglebay Park near Wheeling is a versatile outdoor destination just 5 miles from downtown. The park’s expansive grounds include an 18-hole golf course, but its winter activities truly shine with a large sledding hill and ice skating rink. In warmer months, the park’s Botanical Gardens offer a peaceful walk through themed gardens and greenhouses that burst with seasonal blooms. This family-friendly park balances recreational amenities with natural beauty, offering year-round opportunities to enjoy West Virginia’s gentle hills and scenic river views.
At the heart of Charleston, the Capital Market Riverfront Park provides a surprising green oasis just minutes from the city center. Along the Elk River, the park’s trails, such as the Elk River Trail, invite visitors for leisurely walks, running, or birdwatching. The park frequently hosts outdoor festivals and markets, connecting urban life with nature. Evening strolls here are particularly charming when the city lights twinkle across the water, and the cool river breeze offsets the summer heat.
In the northern reaches near Davis, the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for hikers and wildlife watchers. Situated about 1.5 hours east of Morgantown, the refuge protects a high-elevation wetland ecosystem that supports rare species like the Cheat Mountain salamander. The Boardwalk Trail offers interpretive signage and easy access to the wetland’s unique environment, while nearby Blackwater Falls State Park’s trails lead into dense spruce forests. Spring through early fall is ideal to observe migratory birds and wildflowers in bloom, making this a top destination for naturalists.
Near the eastern border, Seneca Rocks in Pendleton County—about a two-hour drive from Charlottesville, Virginia—presents one of the state’s most iconic climbing destinations. The towering quartzite crag rises nearly 900 feet and draws climbers from beginner to expert levels