IF you're looking for a destination with picturesque views that isn't overrun with tourists, don't discount the least visited state in America. It boasts lively towns, waterfall trails, and a newly designated national park that make it the perfect spot for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and mountain climbing to small-town charm, West Virginia has a little something for everyone.
COUNTRY ROADS, TAKE ME HOME The Mountain State ranked the lowest as the state least visited, according to the World Population Review . New York topped the list with its abundance of entertainment, culture, and sports viewing options. But West Virginia's unique features make it a top pick for residents and visitors.
READ MORE TRAVEL There is a reason John Denver called the small state "almost heaven" in his 1971 hit Take Me Home, Country Roads. TO THE PARK I BELONG Tourism may start to pick up with the re-designation of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve as the nation's 63rd national park in 2020. Located along Route 19 and I-64, the park was previously known as New River Gorge National River.
It contains 70,000 acres of public land that avid hikers and outdoor fans can enjoy. Most read in Travel "Hiking trails here take you to spectacular overlooks and through remnants of old coal mining towns," according to the West Virginia tourism website. "The iconic steel arch bridge was once the longest in the world and welcomes travelers to this cherished region.
" It added that visitors should keep their eyes out for bald eagles and peregrine falcons that can be found on the park grounds. WEST VIRGINIA WATERFALLS Don't go chasing waterfalls — unless they're in West Virginia. The tourism site shared that the New River is known as the second oldest river in the world and "cuts through extensive geological formations.
" The ridges and dips create great opportunities for whitewater rafting . If you’re into river activities, Thrillist experts recommended the Gauley River because it is "one of the five best whitewater rivers in the world and home to a 14-foot raft-able waterfall." MOUNTAIN MAMA HIDDEN GEMS The 25-mile North Fork Mountain Trail was labeled “epic” by the International Mountain Bicycling Association and a must-see for adventurous bikers.
Within West Virginia, several towns are known for their heritage, culture, shops, and dining . Home to West Virginia University , Morgantown offers visitors college -town vibes. WVU was founded as a public institution in 1867, four years after West Virginia became a state.
It offers 18 Division I varsity sports , including baseball, men's and women's basketball, and football. It was first settled in 1772 by Zackquill Morgan and the Virginia Assembly chartered the territory in 1785, according to the tourism site . Aside from watching a football game at Mountaineer Field, visit some local eateries, including casual Blue Moose Café for coffee and bites, or grab a few beers at local favorite Iron Horse Tavern .
Harpers Ferry is located just one hour outside the Washington metropolitan area , which is made up of the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia, or "DMV" for short. Take a trip to “The Point,” where you can see Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia. It is also where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet.
You can float with friends, paddle on a board, or gently raft your way down the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers. Both have been voted the best rivers to float on during the summer by USA Today . Read More on The US Sun Ranson is situated right in the middle of the state and is full of life in the Eastern Panhandle.
It has a casino, motorsports park, and cute shops that make it a perfect choice for a staycation or an easy weekend getaway..
