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West Virginia travel


Ottakee
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We might be going through WV in our way to NC/SC as we own property in New Martinsville area. We would need to stop there but have no other plans.

 

Is there anything else worth stopping for? National or state parks? Easy hikes, waterfalls, etc are things we enjoy. Also small local museums, history of the common folk, etc.

 

Anything I should take a look at?

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As previously mentioned, Harper's Ferry is in WV and would make a nice history stop, but it might not really be on your way to the Carolinas.

 

We also like watching Greyhound racing quite a bit.  WV has two tracks, one in Wheeling (also quite possibly not on your way) and Charleston.  There is no requirement to gamble to watch if gambling isn't your thing.

 

There are a few smaller caverns (not as good as VA's IMO).  I don't recall any memorable hikes to direct you toward.  I remember some, but nothing that really made us go "ooh or aah" compared to neighboring vistas.  WV has mountains and typical mountain views, but it's right next to Shenandoah (in VA) and Smoky Mountain (in TN/NC) and those tend to be "built" better for the oohs and aahs.  Still, there are bound to be some stretch break opportunities along the way if you know which route you are taking.

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WV has a ton of outdoor things depending on where you are.  Blackwater falls is beautiful and has lots of deer.  Whitewater rafting on the Cheat or New Rivers is a ton of fun, the Cranberry Glades, Prickett's Fort, Seneca Rocks, Cass Scenic Railroad.  There is tons of hiking.  Don't forget to try a pepperoni roll while there.  

 

I haven't been to most of these places in years, some of my family is from there and we did live there when I was a kid.

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Monongahela National Forest! One of the most beautiful drives I have been on. Especially the stunning Seneca Rocks area and the bog boardwalk at Cranberry Glades Natural Area and the Highland Scenic Highway. We went in early April and the woods were carpeted with trillium. Along the scenic highway is a stop where some very rare iron formations create honeycombed boulders. There is a lovely river along one of the forest roads as well.

 

https://www.fs.usda.gov/mnf

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monongahela_National_Forest

 

 

Edited by Kalmia
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I have a small local suggestion. I don't know if it would be close to your route at all, but the Whipple Store in Scarbro was very interesting. We did a tour (historical, I think they offer ghost tours, too), and it was fascinating. We had read a bit prior, as we are friends with an author who's written a few books about that area, but it would have been interesting any way.

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I have a small local suggestion. I don't know if it would be close to your route at all, but the Whipple Store in Scarbro was very interesting. We did a tour (historical, I think they offer ghost tours, too), and it was fascinating. We had read a bit prior, as we are friends with an author who's written a few books about that area, but it would have been interesting any way.

I am intrigued! I've lived in WV for most of my life, but have never heard of this. Can you share the author's name?

 

We love to visit the New River Bridge. There is lots to do in that area, but we really enjoy the sightseeing and the hiking.

 

For food, stop at a local Tudor's Biscuit for a yummy breakfast biscuit. The Secret Sandwich Society is a favorite for lunch/dinner.

 

Here is a website for info to get you started.

 

https://newrivergorgecvb.com/eat/

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I am thinking that we would likely be taking I 77....If we end up doing this trip.

 

We rather avoid crowds, like the local haunts, free parks/museums/concerts, etc, and eat simple home cooking type foods.

That is correct.  If you're driving through WVa to get to NC/SC (I'm in NC) then you travel 77 (which ends in Columbia, SC btw).

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I am intrigued! I've lived in WV for most of my life, but have never heard of this. Can you share the author's name?

 

We love to visit the New River Bridge. There is lots to do in that area, but we really enjoy the sightseeing and the hiking.

 

For food, stop at a local Tudor's Biscuit for a yummy breakfast biscuit. The Secret Sandwich Society is a favorite for lunch/dinner.

 

Here is a website for info to get you started.

 

https://newrivergorgecvb.com/eat/

I'll send you a PM. :)

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  • 4 weeks later...

You might like Stonewall State Park. There is camping, a lodge with hotel style rooms, and cottages. It's really nice! They have a fire pit and s'mores at the lodge at night. Kayaks, bikes, stand up paddle boards, canoes, paddle boats ($10 for the day, one fee for use of all), a short boat cruise, and several miles of hiking trails averaging around 3-4 miles each. Plus there is an indoor and outdoor pool, golf, and spa.

 

We just visited for the first time and I already am looking forward to coming back.

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If you will be anywhere near Moundsville, go to the old state prison. It first open in the 1860s and closed in the 1980s-1990s. Incredible architecture and extremely interesting tour. I was surprised at how well everyone in our family enjoyed it.

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