6 of the Most Walkable Towns in West Virginia

Not only are West Virginia’s most picturesque towns some of the best places to visit in the United States, but they’re also among the country’s most walkable destinations. Framed by the beautiful scenery of the Appalachian Mountains, the state's most charming towns provide a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and, yes, that warm, welcoming atmosphere the South is so famous for.

For those who enjoy stretching their legs with a leisurely stroll, the best of these small communities offer plenty of “eye candy” attractions to enjoy along the way. Whether you’re here for a day trip, a weekend retreat, or even a full-on fun summer vacation, these six of the most walkable towns in West Virginia are waiting to be wandered.

Lewisburg

Located in the Greenbrier Valley in the southern part of the state, close to the border with Virginia, Lewisburg is a popular spot to visit for its historical significance and vibrant arts scene. It’s so nice, in fact, that much of the downtown area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is full of well-preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture that now houses charming shops, art galleries, and eateries. Must-sees here include the Greenbrier Valley Theatre, a year-round professional theatre, and the North House Museum, set in an elegant 1820s red-brick mansion with fascinating exhibits about the town and its people.

Nature lovers wanting to push themselves a little harder should include the nearby Greenbrier River Trail on their Lewisburg itinerary. This 78-mile rail trail offers scenic walking and biking paths along the river and can be broken up into bite-size portions of a few days or more for those wanting to tackle the whole route.

Shepherdstown

Shepherdstown is not only the oldest town in West Virginia, it’s definitely one of the best to explore as a pedestrian. Founded in 1734 on the banks of the Potomac River, the historic downtown area is a walker's delight with many well-preserved buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Among the most notable is the Shepherdstown Opera House which has hosted countless live shows since it opened in 1910.

From here, it’s a pleasant walk down to the river and Cullison Park, where the 75-foot-tall Rumsey Monument is located. Dedicated to James Rumsey, an early steamboat inventor, this impressive structure dominates the view. From here, you can also pick up the C&O Canal Towpath, an 184-mile route that offers plenty of additional walking (and even biking) opportunities along the Potomac River.

Berkeley Springs

Despite a small population of only around 600 souls, Berkeley Springs has long been a fixture on the tourist scene in West Virginia. As its name suggests, the big stars here are the mineral springs, a destination for wellness and relaxation since colonial times. In fact, the country’s first president, George Washington, frequently visited the springs for their therapeutic qualities. Visitors today can enjoy much the same experience at Berkeley Springs State Park with its warm mineral waters and historic bathhouses. This must-visit attraction is located in the center of town, making it easy to access on foot.

The Museum of Berkeley Springs is right next door and offers a glimpse into the history of the springs and the town. Another great spot to include on a walking tour of Berkeley Springs is The Ice House, a multi-use arts center run by the Morgan Arts Council that regularly hosts exhibitions, performances, and workshops.

Thomas

Thomas is another small town in West Virginia that’s fun to stroll. Located in the Allegheny Mountains between Pittsburgh and Washington, the town's historic district is where to begin a walking tour and is easily navigable on foot. Must-visits along the way include the Purple Fiddle, a renowned music venue and café, and the picturesque small dams that control the flow of the North Fork of the Blackwater River.

From here it’s also possible to pick up the Blackwater Canyon Trail, a 20-mile-long route that connects to nearby Blackwater Falls State Park. In addition to its lovely waterfalls and hiking trails, camping is also available.

Fayetteville

Fayetteville is located in the heart of the New River Gorge and is a must-visit for those seeking a mix of adventure and charm. Fayetteville Historic District is the best place to get started on a walking tour. Along the way, some 120 or more protected old buildings will be encountered, including McClung House from 1850, the Old Methodist Church from 1905, and the 1907 Fayette County Jail.

Be sure to save some energy for the star attraction in Fayetteville: the spectacular New River Gorge Bridge. Constructed in 1974 and at 3,030 feet one of the longest steel arch bridges in the world, this major landmark offers stunning views of the gorge far below. The best can be had from the Canyon Rim Visitor Center and its scenic lookouts (and yes, walking is involved).

Harpers Ferry

Its scenic location at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers makes Harpers Ferry one of the prettiest towns in West Virginia. It’s also one of the most historically significant towns in the state, with the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park the town's main attraction. Walking is inevitable here, covering over 4,000 acres, so be prepared. It’s all worth it, though, with highlights including walking tours of the historic Lower Town area, home to the famous John Brown Fort, and a museum dedicated to the events that placed the town on the map. Many other interesting buildings are located in the park, too, such as Storer College and Murphy Farm, plus excellent hiking trails and scenic lookouts.

Not done walking? The Appalachian Trail passes directly through Harpers Ferry, making it a popular stop for hikers. This 2,190-mile trail takes an estimated six months or more to travel, so don’t expect to get much of it walked in a single trip to Harpers Ferry.

The Final Word

There’s no doubt that West Virginia's best small towns are great places to visit for those who enjoy a good walking destination. A mix of everything that’s good about the state, places like Lewisburg, Shepherdstown, Berkeley Springs, Thomas, Fayetteville, and Harpers Ferry are all immensely walkable. Whether it’s their healing mineral waters or their adventurous spirit, these six of the most walkable towns in West Virginia are waiting to be explored.