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West Virginia road trips are one of my favorite things! Last fall, Lucas and I decided to get some VIPP (Very Important Parks Person) stamps on the way home from a WVU football game.
So in three days, we visited Milan Puskar Stadium, 6 WV State Parks, many must-see places, and multiple state and national forests! We felt super West Virginian that weekend.
Although the road trip part of our trip was actually two days, I’ve added a third day for you from a previous trip since you’ll already be in the area.
This road trip basically followed the Allegheny Highlands. Our goal was to spend a couple of hours at each park to get an idea of where we’d like to come back to in the future.
You can start this road trip from the north or south end of the WV Allegheny Highlands. This itinerary will start in Fairmont, WV and travel east then south to Lewisburg, WV.
Since we had already visited a few areas along the southern part of our route we skipped over them, but if you want more info (Cranberry Glades, Watoga State Park, etc.), check out WV Road Trip: Pocahontas County. You could even add these and make a week long trip!
Also, if you need ideas for the other side of WV along the Ohio River, check out WV Road Trip: Parkersburg to The World’s Largest Teapot.
Day 1:
Prickett’s Fort State Park
After staying the night in Fairmont, WV after the WVU football game in Morgantown, we started our mini road trip with Fairmont’s most famous restaurant – Muriale’s Italian Kitchen. It’s famous for a reason and we really enjoyed it.
With full bellies, we explored around town, then headed to Prickett’s Fort State Park. This a small park with a reconstruction of the original fort. There is a charge to get into the actual fort, but it is worth it when the reenactors are at work.
A 3-mile rail trail, short nature hike, and Prickett Creek are accessible from the park. For us though, the best part was the local crafters and artisans set up inside the Visitor Center.
The Prickett’s Fort Memorial Foundation hosts many unique events and workshops throughout the year.
Valley Falls State Park
Next, we traveled south to Valley Falls State Park. This day-use park is loved by outdoorsy people for its fishing, picnicking, and hiking trails.
We took our time taking in the beauty of the falls on the Tygart Valley River. I suggest sitting and taking in the sounds of the rushing waters.
Tygart Lake State Park
Next up was a trip to Tygart Lake State Park. This park offers many activities and lodging options, making it one of the more well-known parks in WV.
Lucas had been canoeing on Tygart Lark before with WVU’s Adventure WV. Unfortunately, we visited at the end of season and the lake was down.
We did enjoy exploring the campground and getting at snack and the lodge (which has beautiful views).
Cathedral State Park
From Tygart, we traveled east on US-50 to Cathedral State Park. This is when we really started getting into the Allegheny Highlands.
We came upon a nice surprise by the name of Cool Springs Park. A store with anything you could need was juxtaposed next to a park area of old trains and farm equipment. What a cool experience!
Around mid-afternoon, we made it to the ancient hemlock forest in Cathedral State Park. Hiking is the main attraction at this park with multiple trails through the forest.
We spent about 45 minutes walking a combination of Cathedral and Giant Hemlock Trail.
Blackwater Falls State Park
Traveling south through the wonderful towns of Thomas and Davis (be sure to check out Tucker County’s website), we made our way to Blackwater Falls State Park.
I knew of Blackwater Falls because of the famous motocross race and obviously the falls. What I didn’t know is that it would become one of my favorite WV State Parks.
Since it was almost evening, we visited the falls first. With multiple platforms and plenty of steps, there are multiple accessibility options. And although not black, the waters are tinted, providing a unique experience.
On this side of the river, you have some rockin’ cabins (seriously, like palace cabins), beautiful campground and Pendleton Point Overlook.
On the other side of the river, you have the nice lodge (with a wonderful dining experience and beautiful views), cabins, cross-country skiing trails, Elakala Falls, and Lindy Point Overlook, one of WV’s most photographed views.
We enjoyed the park very much and ended up staying a night at the lodge.
Day 2:
Canaan Valley Resort & Conference Center (State Park)
Centered in one of the most outdoorsy areas in WV, Cannan Valley is a hot spot for travelers. Located in the valley is one of WV’s top parks – Canaan Valley Resort & Conference Center.
Although known for its winter activities, Canaan Valley has so much more to offer. From the Scenic Chair Lift to Summer Tubing, there are plenty of unique experiences.
We checked out the campground (yes!) and explored the lodge. Since it was between seasons, we definitely plan on going back.
This area has so much to offer, you can make Canaan or Blackwater your base for a few days and explore from there.
Dolly Sods Wilderness
Located in the Monongahela National Forest, Dolly Sods Wilderness is a hiker and WV lover’s dream. With a different landscape than the rest of WV, the bog and heath draws in visitors for a unique experience.
Although Lucas and I didn’t get to visit Dolly Sods on this trip, we’re planning on going back soon!
Smoke Hole Caverns, Seneca Rocks, Seneca Caverns
Located within 30 minutes of each other, Smoke Hole Caverns and Seneca Caverns are a must see on your highlands adventure.
And, located in between, is Seneca Rocks, probably the most known landmark in WV (it’s basically on every tourism material). Make sure to take time to hike up to the rocks.
Spruce Knob
Memorized by every WV 8th grade student for the WV Golden Horseshoe Test (kind of a big deal if you aren’t a WV reader and oh, my sister is totally a Lady of the Golden Horseshoe – SHOUT OUT!), Spruce Knob is the highest peak in WV.
Although it feels like a long drive to the top, it is totally worth it. The observation tower gives nice views but the Whispering Spruce Trail is even better. I suggest going during Leaf Peeper time in the fall.
At this point, we ended up driving home, but I’ve added one more day (based on a previous outing) for you since you’ll already be in the area.
Day 3:
Green Bank Observatory
So kind of a big deal and somehow unknown by many West Virginians, the Green Bank Observatory is home to the world’s largest fully steerable radio telescope.
With a really neat science center and an up-close bus ride to the telescope, this is a must see! Just be prepared to have no cell service since it’s a national radio quiet zone.
Cass Scenic Railroad State Park
South of Green Bank, turn right onto Route 66 to visit Cass Scenic Railroad State Park. Although a “small” park, Cass is a fun experience with the famous Last Run Restaurant, Company Store, and museum.
You may even plan your trip around a scenic train ride with the Durbin Greenbrier Valley Railroad.
Snowshoe Mountain Resort
Continue west on 66 to go to Snowshoe Mountain Resort. Another one of WV’s famous wintertime sports resorts, Snowshoe is a must see.
Snowshoe also offers many activities in the summertime. And even if you aren’t going to stay, drive up for the splendid mountain views.
Additional Options
Now if you want to make a longer trip and basically cover all of the Allegheny Highlands, check out WV Road Trip: Pocahontas County.
Total Cost
- $80 – Gasoline
- $150 – Food
- $50 – Attractions
- $150 – Accommodations
Since many of the attractions and parks were free, the costs mainly came from food and accommodations. We spent around $430 for our fall mini vacation.