Discover the best top things to do in , United States including Beartown State Park, Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, Watoga State Park, Gaudineer Scenic Area, Shavers Lake & Lift Rides, Village at Snowshoe, Snowshoe Mountain Resort, Durbin Greenbrier Valley Railroad.
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5.0 based on 110 reviews
Beartown State Park is a natural area of 107 acres located on the eastern summit of Droop Mountain, seven miles southwest of Hillsboro, West Virginia. The name Beartown was chosen because local residents claimed that the many cave-like openings in the rocks made ideal winter dens for the black bears of the area. Also, the many deep, narrow crevasses were formed in a somewhat regular criss-cross pattern and appear from above like the streets of a small town. Beartown is noted for its unusual rock formations, which are comprised of Droop, or Pottsville, Sandstone formed during the Pennsylvanian age. Massive boulders, overhanging cliffs, and deep crevasses stir the imagination of most visitors. Pocketing the face of the cliffs are hundreds of eroded pits, ranging from the size of marbles to others large enough to hold two grown men. Ice and snow commonly remain in the deeper crevasses until mid to late summer. Vegetation clings tenaciously to life, sending roots into mere cracks in the rocks.The land was purchased in 1970 with funds from the Nature Conservancy and a donation from Mrs. Edwin G. Polan, in memory of her son, Ronald Keith Neal, who lost his life in the Vietnam War. Development of the park has been minimal in order to preserve the natural attractions of the area. However, basic facilities are provided, and a boardwalk permits easy access. Interpretive signs along the boardwalk guide visitors and provide insights concerning the ecology of the area. The park is open daily from April to October. During the closed winter season foot travel to the boardwalk area is welcome, with parking available at the closed entrance gate. Group tours may be arranged by contacting the Superintendent at nearby Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park. No fee is charged to visit Beartown.
I had no idea what to expect from this park when I put it on my list of things to visit in WV, and was amazed! The sandstone rock formations are some of the most unusual and unique geological structures I have ever seen. To protect the flora and the stones, the path is via raised wooden walkway. There are loads of stairs and at one point I felt like I was in an Escher painting. It's not a long hike, and the stairs are rarely more than 6 in a row, so unless you just cannot navigate stairs at all you shouldn't have any problems. Highly recommend this hidden gem!
4.5 based on 74 reviews
The Cranberry Glades botanical area is one of the largest and most botanically significant bogs in the Appalachian Mountains. The Glades resemble an arctic tundra misplaced in these southern mountains. Found here are many of the same rare plants, birds, mammals, and even reindeer moss which are commonly found in bogs of the far north. Enjoy a stroll on the boardwalk and learn about this amazing ecosystem.
This is one of our favorite places in all of West Virginia, immediately upon entering the trail head you will know you aren't in Kansas anymore. It is like stepping back in time to Jurassic Park and you will find yourself watching for dinosaurs around every turn. The giant ferns sprawl out endlessly along the train. If you look closely you may even spot the carnivorous Pitcher Plants. If you are lucky, a bear or two might be seen. To one side of the walk is pure jungle vegetation and a wild bog up to 20 feet deep and on the other side mountain and forest splendor with a carpet of cranberry plants and wildflowers growing everywhere. Fall is spectacular as is the spring blooming season. The interpretive signs tell the story of the bog well and the rangers, when present are very knowledgeable of the area. The boardwalk can be rough in spots when the beavers are active so wheelchairs may not have access. Be sure to check for warning signs on this before entering the boardwalk portion of the trail. There is no elevation to the hike, sturdy, non-slick shoes are recommended as the boardwalk can be wet or muddy in places. Pets are welcome on leases. Be careful with pets as they may be tempted to step off the boardwalk to get a drink only to find themselves up to their ears in bog. The walk is a short one but allow about an hour to complets. Another West Virginia Delight.
4.5 based on 81 reviews
Located in the mountains of Pocahontas County, Watoga State Park is West Virginia’s largest state park. With 10,100 acres of land, Watoga is filled with many recreational activities including hiking, swimming, fishing and boating. Watoga Lake is known for excellent fishing opportunities and is part of the Division of Natural Resources' stocking program. A multipurpose building, museum and observation tower are just a few of the unique attractions at Watoga State Park.
We wanted something different than our usual family camping spot and this ended up being perfect. We stayed at the river side campground for a long weekend and it was great.
4.5 based on 11 reviews
This is off the beaten path, several miles off the main road, and as pristine as it gets. There is a short hike from the parking to the overlook. At the overlook there is nothing but quiet and beauty no matter the season. I never come to WV without stopping off here. Highly recommend.
4.5 based on 29 reviews
My 16 years old son and I walked the trail around the lake. It’s scenic and I stopped several times to take in the beauty. It’s about 1.5 mile. I’d recommend to wear good hiking shoes.
4.0 based on 127 reviews
Located atop Cheat Mountain, this resort village features many resort amenities including hotels and a plaza filled with shops and restaurants.
Great east coast ski option during Covid when so many places don't have capacity or don't allow out of staters. Large enough resort with plenty of trails for all skill levels & good terrain park options. Village is well marked so easy to find everything. Mostly takeout options for dining so plan ahead and bring food. We stayed slopeside at Expedition Station and although the condo was small cannot beat how easy ski-in/ski-out was during the stay. Split rock pools had controlled capacity however what a fun place to take dip outside in the snow!
4.0 based on 745 reviews
Start with an 11,000 acre playground serving up the best of the mountains, however you like it. Your days here are like having dessert first. Our Village is situated atop the mountain and gives you access to spa-ing, shopping and even dancing. It all feels better at 4,848 feet.
On an impulse decision, I decided to pack up the car and make the 6-hour drive from Cincinnati to Snowshoe to fit in 2 last days of skiing before the season came to a close. I learned to ski in Colorado and was curious to see what skiing in the East was about. Overall, I was really impressed and will be returning next year. I started off the day on the front of the mountain, which was fine, but it got a little crowded and had long lift lines. The lines were better at Soaring Eagle and I was able to enjoy myself a bit more. The real fun started at Western Territory - I enjoy harder blue or black groomers and the Western Territory was perfect for me. At times I could have thought I was in Colorado and found the skiing to be far better than anything I would imagine within a half-day's drive of Ohio. The Western Territory was even better in the morning, with fresh groomed snow and virtually no lift lines. I didn't find the night skiing at Silver Creek to be very enjoyable with long lines and poor snow conditions by the end of the day. I didn't mind leaving earlier than intended though since I was staying in Marlinton and had a little bit of a drive. Didn't detract from the experience too much as I had a great time in the Western Territory but just sharing for those thinking about night skiing or Silver Creek. I will definitely be back - for the many people like me who are within a 6h drive (OH, PA, VA, DC, NC) - this is a great option to get some quality skiing in and truly feel like you are at a ski destination (the village is substantial). It doesn't 100% replace going out west - but is a lot easier to pull off for a quick weekend trip and worth the time.
4.5 based on 134 reviews
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