Small communities in West Virginia, which are sometimes overlooked by most tourists, provide a distinctive fusion of Appalachian charm, rich history, and scenic beauty. The following 11 charming Mountain State communities are highly recommended for a visit:
1. Ferry, Harpers
Place: The Eastern Panhandle
Features: Harpers Ferry, a historic town at the meeting point of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, is well-known for its Civil War past, beautiful hiking routes, and charming neighbourhoods.
Hike: The Appalachian Trail Conservancy and Harpers Ferry National Historical Park are must-sees.
2. Lewisburg
Where: Greenbrier County
Features: Lewisburg is a cultural treasure, well-known for its thriving arts scene, historic buildings, and easy access to outdoor activities.
Hike: The Lost World Caverns and Carnegie Hall are must-sees.
3. The city of Fayetteville
Where: Southern West Virginia
Features: Fayetteville, the entry point to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, is a sanctuary for nature lovers.
Hike: Adventures on the Gorge for rafting and the New River Gorge Bridge are must-sees.
4. Shepherdstown
Where: The Eastern Panhandle
Features: Shepherdstown is the oldest town in West Virginia and is brimming with historical charm, quaint cafes, and distinctive stores.
Hike: Shepherd University’s campus and the Bavarian Inn are must-sees.
5. Thomas
Where: Tucker County
Characteristics: This creative mountain town is well-known for its galleries, outdoor activities, and live music venues.
Hike: The Purple Fiddle and Blackwater Falls State Park are must-sees.
6. The Berkeley Springs
Where: Morgan County
Features: A mediaeval spa town well-known for its healing retreats and natural mineral springs.
Hike: Berkeley Springs Castle and Berkeley Springs State Park are must-sees.
7. Marlinton
Location: County of Pocahontas
Features: Marlinton, which is surrounded by the Monongahela National Forest, is a great place for history buffs and wildlife lovers.
Hike: The Pearl S. Buck Birthplace and the Greenbrier River Trail are must-sees.
8. The White Sulphur Springs
Where: Greenbrier County
Features: Rich in history, elegance, and scenic beauty, this town is home to the renowned Greenbrier Resort.
Hike: The Greenbrier Resort and the adjacent Greenbrier State Forest are must-sees.
9. Davis
Where: Tucker County
Features: Hikers, skiers, and adventurers will love Davis, a charming town with a rustic outdoor feel.
Hike: Dolly Sods Wilderness and Canaan Valley Resort State Park are must-sees.
10. The Bramwell
Where: Mercer County
Features: Bramwell’s rich history and Gilded Age mansions earned it the nickname “Millionaire Town” during the mining boom.
Hike: The Bramwell Historic District and the Coal Heritage Trail are must-sees.
11. Hinton
Where: Summers County
Features: Hinton, which is tucked away along the New River, has a historic downtown, breathtaking views, and river activities.
Hike: The Hinton Railway Museum and Sandstone Falls are must-sees.
These communities offer a blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures that entice visitors to uncover the state’s best-kept secrets, capturing the essence of West Virginia’s Appalachian spirit.
