Introduction
Welcome to West Virginia, a state known for its rugged mountains, outdoor adventures, rich history, and warm hospitality. In this 7-day itinerary, we’ll guide you through the diverse landscapes and exciting experiences that make West Virginia truly wild and wonderful. Get ready for a journey filled with scenic beauty, thrilling activities, and unforgettable memories.
Day 1: Charleston – Capital City Exploration
Morning: Arrival in Charleston
- Arrival: Fly into Yeager Airport and check into your hotel in Charleston.
- Breakfast at Bluegrass Kitchen: Start your day with a delicious farm-to-table breakfast.
Afternoon: Capitol Complex and Culture
- Capitol Building: Take a guided tour of the West Virginia State Capitol.
- Culture Center: Explore the West Virginia Culture Center and Museum Complex.
Evening: Downtown Charleston
- Dinner at Bridge Road Bistro: Enjoy a fine dining experience overlooking the Kanawha River.
- Walk along the Riverfront: Take a leisurely stroll along Haddad Riverfront Park.
Day 2: New River Gorge National Park
Morning: Drive to New River Gorge
- Breakfast at Tudor’s Biscuit World: Grab a classic Southern biscuit for breakfast.
- Drive to New River Gorge: Head to one of West Virginia’s most iconic natural attractions.
Afternoon: Outdoor Adventures
- Hiking or Biking: Explore the scenic trails in New River Gorge National Park.
- Whitewater Rafting: Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the New River or Gauley River.
Evening: Sunset Overlook and Campfire Dinner
- Canyon Rim Visitor Center: Watch the sunset from one of the park’s stunning overlooks.
- Campfire Dinner: Enjoy a cookout under the stars at a nearby campground.
Day 3: Beckley and Coal Country History
Morning: Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine
- Breakfast at King Tut Drive-In: Start your day with a classic diner breakfast.
- Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine: Take a guided tour to learn about West Virginia’s coal mining history.
Afternoon: Tamarack and Outdoor Art
- Lunch at Tamarack: Explore West Virginia’s artisan crafts and cuisine at Tamarack.
- Outdoor Art: Visit nearby outdoor art installations like the Beckley Mural Project.
Evening: Dinner and Entertainment
- Dinner at The Char: Indulge in a steakhouse dinner in downtown Beckley.
- Live Music or Theater: Enjoy live music or a theatrical performance at a local venue.
Day 4: Canaan Valley and Dolly Sods Wilderness
Morning: Drive to Canaan Valley
- Breakfast at Hellbender Burritos: Grab a hearty burrito for breakfast.
- Drive to Canaan Valley: Journey to the stunning highlands of Canaan Valley.
Afternoon: Hiking and Nature Exploration
- Dolly Sods Wilderness: Hike through the unique landscapes of Dolly Sods.
- Blackwater Falls State Park: Visit the iconic Blackwater Falls and enjoy scenic overlooks.
Evening: Relaxation and Lodge Dinner
- Canan Valley Resort State Park: Unwind at the lodge or enjoy outdoor activities.
- Dinner at Hickory Dining Room: Experience fine dining with mountain views.
Day 5: Seneca Rocks and Spruce Knob
Morning: Seneca Rocks Adventure
- Breakfast at Front Porch Restaurant: Enjoy breakfast with a view.
- Seneca Rocks: Hike or climb at Seneca Rocks, a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Afternoon: Spruce Knob and Observatory
- Lunch at Yokum’s Restaurant: Savor local comfort food.
- Spruce Knob: Visit the highest point in West Virginia for panoramic views.
- Spruce Knob Observatory: Stargaze and learn about the night sky.
Evening: Dinner and Campfire
- Campfire Dinner: Enjoy a picnic-style dinner at Seneca State Forest.
- Evening Activities: Relax around the campfire and enjoy the peaceful setting.
Day 6: Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Morning: Drive to Harpers Ferry
- Breakfast at Battle Grounds Bakery & Coffee: Fuel up for your day of exploration.
- Drive to Harpers Ferry: Journey to this historic town at the confluence of rivers.
Afternoon: Historical Tours and River Activities
- Historical Park: Explore the Civil War history at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.
- River Activities: Enjoy kayaking, tubing, or canoeing on the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers.
Evening: Dinner and Sunset Views
- Dinner at The Anvil Restaurant: Dine in a historic setting in Harpers Ferry.
- Sunset at Jefferson Rock: Watch the sunset from Jefferson Rock for breathtaking views.
Day 7: Morgantown and WVU Campus
Morning: Morgantown Exploration
- Breakfast at The Grind WV: Start your day with coffee and breakfast.
- Morgantown: Explore downtown Morgantown, home to West Virginia University.
Afternoon: WVU Campus and Outdoor Recreation
- WVU Campus Tour: Visit the WVU campus and its landmarks.
- Coopers Rock State Forest: Hike or rock climb in the scenic Coopers Rock State Forest.
Evening: Farewell Dinner
- Dinner at Stefano’s: End your trip with Italian cuisine and great ambiance.
- Reflect and Depart: Reflect on your West Virginia adventure before heading home.
Conclusion
This 7-day itinerary showcases the diverse offerings of West Virginia, from its scenic landscapes and outdoor adventures to its rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you’re exploring vibrant cities like Charleston and Morgantown, hiking through majestic national parks like New River Gorge and Canaan Valley, or delving into the state’s rich coal mining history in Beckley, West Virginia offers a dynamic and immersive experience for travelers of all interests. As you conclude your adventure, take a moment to cherish the memories made and reflect on the wild and wonderful spirit of the Mountain State. Pack your bags, embark on this journey, and discover why West Virginia truly lives up to its motto of being wild and wonderful. Adventure awaits in every corner of the state, promising an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing to return for more.