11 Amazing West Virginia Day Trips That Are Worth The Drive

Nested in the heart of Appalachia, West Virginia is home to a mountainous terrain renowned for its rolling hills and lush valleys. While the state's largest cities, Charleston and Huntington, attract the most visitors, many underestimate the richness that awaits discovery beyond their borders. Across the northern panhandle and central highlands, intriguing destinations beckon those seeking cultural experiences and scenic natural beauty.

A short drive from the major metro areas comes in handy when you want to explore the genuine charm and character of the Mountain State outside its most famous destinations like Harpers Ferry. From thriving arts communities and historic small towns to tucked-away state parks and waterfalls, these West Virginia day trips invite travelers to experience the state's authentic charm.

Hawks Nest State Park

Escape the rigors of Charleston to revel in rich natural surroundings at Hawks Nest State Park. Situated an hour outside the capital, this short drive culminates in a 270-acre recreational hub with spellbinding vistas of the New River Gorge. The Hawks Nest State Park Nature Center is an ideal first stop upon entering the reserve. It houses interactive exhibits about local flora and fauna, while a resourceful naturalist answers any questions you may have about the refuge.

Hikers can look forward to secluded nature trails leading into the heart of the wilderness. The Cliffside Trail is an excellent choice for viewing the New River Gorge, which features high sandstone cliffs and a waterfall. Water-fueled recreation on Hawks Nest Lake and New River adds to the diverse opportunities available.

Greenbrier Resort

Spend a delightful afternoon discovering one of America's largest private resorts with a trip to Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs. This magnificent establishment is two hours southeast of Charleston and spreads over 11,000 acres of property. It blends rustic charm and modern comforts to grant first-timers a one-of-a-kind experience. At the heart of the resort is a stunning Colonial Revival structure with a conspicuously white facade. Over 700 guest rooms and 40 meeting spaces represent the opulence of the Greenbrier Resort, but non-staying guests are also welcome to roam the grounds and shops.

Surrounding the building are manicured gardens and lush landscapes that beckon visitors to revel in the serene atmosphere. The area also features a golf course and a luxurious spa, granting world-class service.

Pricketts Fort State Park

Brace yourself for an absorbing journey to explore pioneering life in 18th-century West Virginia. Situated just over 2 hours from Charleston, Pricketts Fort State Park is set on a 188-acre complex and harbors a cluster of well-preserved structures depicting how people used to live in the 1700s. The facility schedules guest tours through the various buildings in the complex, ensuring a vivid look into life during the period.

Walking along Prickett's Fort Nature Trail introduces you to the beautiful flora and fauna that define the outdoor scenery. This relatively easy route stretches about a quarter of a mile and offers a popular way of getting around. The region's pastoral setting results in secluded picnic areas where guests can sit with friends and family. A 400-seat amphitheater comes alive in the summer with concerts and other performing art presentations.

Pipestem Resort State Park

A trip to Pipestem Resort State Park is an opportunity to appreciate the natural wonders of West Virginia's mountainous backcountry. This profoundly satisfying drive lasts just under two hours from Charleston and rewards road-trippers with amazing panoramas of the surrounding landscapes. One of the adventures to anticipate involves soaring above the Bluestone Gorge at 300 feet from one treetop to another and blazing speeds courtesy of Pipestem Peaks Zipline Tours.

Young guests can have a blast at Splash Park, which has 15 splash features and dumping buckets. Meanwhile, rafting enthusiasts can charter a vessel to take on the choppy waters of the Bluestone and New Rivers for an unforgettable adventure.

Oglebay Resort

Tourists on a family getaway can brace this long journey, just under 3 hours from Charleston, to Oglebay Resort for a satisfying experience with loved ones. This stunningly landscaped 2,000-acre park rewards newcomers with a raft of family-friendly activities to amuse you for the entirety of your stay. Almost 4.5 miles of walking trails invite you to explore Oglebay's beauty on foot, cascading throughout the park and a peaceful arboretum with colorful greenery. Bang in the middle of the resort, Schenk Lake hosts various water-based recreation, from pedal boating and kayaking to aqua cycling.

Don't forget to meet the friendly animal residents of the park at Good Zoo, home to over 60 species (20 endangered). Embrace close-up encounters with creatures like porcupines and red pandas.

Huntington Museum Of Art

Travelers can expect an engrossing cultural experience at the Huntington Museum of Art, just one hour west of Charleston and 15 minutes from the Huntington Tri-State Airport. This world-class facility, covering 60,000 square feet, houses an extravagant collection of British, American, European, and Asian Art. With over 45,000 objects spanning at least 500 years of history, guests should consider clearing the day's schedule to explore the museum thoroughly.

The American art section houses 31 galleries with objects spanning the early Colonial era to the present day, including architecture, decorative arts, photography, and textiles. Meanwhile, the Asian art collection provides an idea of Asian culture, with Chinese paintings, books, and Japanese ceramics.

Babcock State Park

Babcock State Park ranks among the most fulfilling West Virginia day trips for fans of the great outdoors. This sprawling wilderness has more than 4,000 acres of rugged recreational terrain and is just a one-and-a-half-hour drive from Charleston. Many nature photographers love to capture the Glade Creek Grist Mill, a functioning replica of the initial Cooper's Mill. Secluded passageways running through Babcock State Park grant access to the New River Gorge, a prime spot for fishermen and whitewater rafters.

Tygart Lake State Park

It takes less than two and a half hours to reach Tygart Lake State Park from Charleston, where tourists can get lost in water activities and land adventures. The preserve has a 1,700-acre reservoir with a 10-mile shoreline, inviting endless water fun. The Tygart Lake Marina is the hub for all aquatic recreation, and you can hire a boat, pontoon, kayak, or other vessel to sail on the water. The lake's waters are a habitat for different fish species. From catfish, bluegill, and crappie to smallmouth bass, beckoning fishermen of all skill levels to test their luck.

Five major trails traverse Tygart Lake State Park, ranging in difficulty and length. Dogwood Trail is the longest and most preferred by ardent adventurers.

Hinton

Escape to the serene waters of Bluestone Lake and New River with a trip to this beautiful town of Summers County. Located one and a half hours outside Charleston, Hinton's scenic outdoors is a getaway to endless activities, with many centered around Bluestone State Park. This 2,100-acre wilderness harbors Bluestone Lake, a hub for boaters, rafters, and anglers. Nature photographers will fancy documenting Brooks Falls Roadside Park, a visual spectacle amidst rich natural scenery.

Hinton is also home to the Hinton Railroad Museum, which offers a glimpse into local railway heritage indoors. The venue displays relics and memorabilia depicting the chronology of the Ohio and Chesapeake Railway.

Lewisburg

A 2-hour drive southeast of Charleston, you will find the community of Lewisburg. This friendly town houses a quaint downtown area with a lively arts and culture scene. First-timers will discover Greenbrier Valley Theatre to be an exciting stop. The landmark venue stages various live productions, and you can join locals in watching musicals, plays, and concerts. Souvenir collectors can find rare treasures at Brick House Antiques, which displays assorted artifacts inside a pre-Civil War home.

The Lost World Caverns are a must-visit when touring Lewisburg. This mystic network of caverns was named a National Natural Landmark and takes guests on a memorable underground excursion with dramatic natural formations to check out.

Ripley

Ripley is an artsy community in Jackson County, set between the Ohio River Valley and the Appalachian foothills. It is only half an hour north of Charleston and provides a wonderful escape from the city noise. While there, remember to visit one of the nation's longest-operating independent furniture stores at Vail Furniture.

Besides shopping for well-crafted furniture and home decor items, visitors will also encounter vintage finds at Farmhouse Market Finds, which boasts a welcoming environment. Stepping outside, history lovers can find a beautiful gem at the Staats Mill Covered Bridge. Built in the late 19th century, it is one of the state's few surviving covered bridges.

From mountain vistas and waterfalls to neat cultural institutions and charming small towns, these excursions invite visitors to experience the unmatched diversity and hospitality across the Mountain State. With so many hidden gems scattered just beyond the cities, taking a full or half day to sample what West Virginia day trips have to offer is sure to foster a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty, heritage, and adventures in the United States awaiting around every bend in the road. Whether setting out from Charleston or Huntington, the true spirit of Appalachia comes to light through these memorable West Virginia getaways.