West Virginia doesn’t always get the credit it deserves. Tucked away in Appalachia, it’s got some of the most gorgeous mountain scenery you’ll find on the East Coast.
It’s practical, unpolished in the best way, and full of wide-open spaces that make it easy to disconnect without needing a full expedition’s worth of planning.
If you’re into hiking, views, or simply escaping your daily routine for a couple of days, it’s an ideal place to hit reset.
What makes the Mountain State especially appealing for weekend travelers is its variety.
You can stay at a historic resort, book a cabin tucked against a ridge, settle into a laid-back small town, or camp near some of the most photographed spots in the region. No matter your travel style, there’s a place here that fits.
Here are five of the best places to stay in West Virginia if you want nature close by, a manageable drive, and a trip that feels refreshing without being complicated.
1. Canaan Valley Resort State Park
Canaan Valley sits higher than any other mountain valley east of the Rockies, more than 6,000 acres of pure outdoor playground in Tucker County.
Winter turns the entire valley into a skier’s dream, with consistently fantastic powder conditions thanks to its elevation and climate.
But the experience here extends far beyond the snow.
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- Bald Knob Trail, a challenging but deeply rewarding trek offering some of the most impressive vistas in the region
- Wildlife viewing, especially at dawn when deer and smaller mountain critters are most active
- Lodge accommodations that let you wake up to sweeping valley panoramas without ever stepping outside
The fall foliage deserves its own praise, bursting with golds, reds, and oranges that blanket the valley in color. Honestly, though, every season brings something beautiful to the landscape.
Note: Be sure to try some Virginia food specialties, as here is the only place you can get them!
2. Blackwater Falls State Park
Blackwater Falls is one of those places that feels almost unreal the first time you see it.
The iconic 57-foot waterfall, its water naturally tinted a deep amber by tannins from fallen hemlock and red spruce needles, looks dramatic enough in photos, but standing beside it is an entirely different experience.
The roar, the mist, the sheer drop into the narrow canyon below, it all hits you at once.
Framed by the rugged Allegheny Mountains, the area draws photographers, hikers, families, and anyone who appreciates raw Appalachian scenery.
Even just walking the boardwalk to the falls gives you a sense of how powerful and enduring this landscape is.
The surrounding forest adds to the charm, shifting through bold greens in summer, fiery reds and golds in fall, and quiet snow-covered stillness in winter.
The trail system throughout the park has a distinctive balance: maintained enough to feel accessible, but wild enough to keep its character.
@harrisonenyeart Day 50 | My Run in Blackwater Falls State Park, West Virginia June 7, 2025 #run #westvirginia #statepark #blackwaterfalls #running #fitness ♬ original sound – JPC Song_Rewind🎧🎤 – Paul 🥀 Kayla
- Mountain biking routes that take you through dense woodland, across rocky stretches, and alongside cliffs that open into breathtaking overlooks
- Hiking paths that offer constant scenic moments, everything from canyon views to mossy forest floors to sudden glimpses of the river far below
- Winter cross-country skiing, which transforms the park into a pristine, quiet wilderness with trails that feel almost otherworldly under fresh snow
No matter when you visit, the landscape is always shifting, clouds rolling through the canyon, light changing on the water, leaves moving in the wind.
It’s the kind of place where even a short walk can turn into an hour because you keep stopping to take in one more view, one more bend in the river, one more moment that feels too beautiful to rush past.
3. The Greenbrier
Maybe you want nature but aren’t quite ready to fully rough it. The Greenbrier understands that balance perfectly.
This iconic resort has been welcoming guests since 1778, and after more than two centuries of fine-tuning, it’s mastered the art of combining luxury with mountain adventure.
The property itself feels like a world of its own, with historic buildings, lush grounds, and a backdrop of rolling Allegheny ridges that make even a simple walk feel special.
What really sets the experience apart is the sheer variety of things you can do.
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- Falconry sessions that let you interact with trained birds of prey in a hands-on, educational way
- Horseback rides along scenic trails that weave through peaceful mountain terrain
- Guided hikes led by experts who know every plant, trail, and hidden viewpoint
- Golf courses designed by Jack Nicklaus, offering world-class play surrounded by mountain views
Between the outdoor adventures and the refined atmosphere, The Greenbrier manages to deliver the best of both worlds: nature when you want it, comfort when you need it.
After a day exploring the Allegheny Mountains, you might want to unwind at their spa or try your luck at the casino.
If you’re feeling adventurous later, you could even check out a site like Americas Cardroom for some online poker action.
4. Seneca Rocks
Rock climbers already know this one well.
Seneca Rocks rises sharply from the North Fork River, creating a dramatic landmark that’s impossible not to stare at.
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- Multi-pitch climbing routes that challenge even experienced climbers
- A summit trail for non-climbers that still delivers jaw-dropping views
- Night skies so clear that camping nearby feels like stepping into a planetarium
The visitor center also offers helpful insight into how the rocks formed and the history of climbing in the area. It’s raw West Virginia beauty at its purest.
5. Berkeley Springs
George Washington visited these mineral springs for relaxation, and the tradition certainly lives on.
Today, Berkeley Springs stands as one of the most soothing small towns in the Appalachians, combining centuries of history with an artsy, wellness-driven atmosphere.
The pace here is unhurried, the people are friendly, and the landscape encourages you to slow down, whether you planned to or not.
This little town has perfected the art of relaxation. The warm mineral baths feel amazing after a day of hiking. The community has this artsy, laid-back vibe with local shops worth browsing.
@natbco Welcome to the 35th annual Berkeley Springs International Water Tasting, said to be the world’s longest running competition of its kind. I traveled to Berkeley Springs, West Virginia to see the competition myself, and came back with many fun facts about water. For example, when you evaluate still water, the liquid should be served at room temperature; the colder the beverage, the harder it is to taste any flaws (see also: cheap vodka). Sparkling water, however, could be evaluated cold. Watermaster Arthur Von Wiesenberger said that’s because sparkling water is typically served chilled, plus it helps to keep its carbonation. For my full recap of the story, go to WashingtonPost.com/travel. cc: @We are a newspaper. ♬ original sound – Natalie Compton
- Warm mineral baths that have been cherished for generations, easing muscles and quieting the mind
- An arts district filled with local shops, galleries, handcrafted goods, and a surprisingly lively creative community
- Cacapon Resort State Park, just a short drive away, offering lakeside relaxation, mountain overlooks, fishing spots, and miles of hiking trails
Berkeley Springs is the kind of place where time seems to stretch out, making even a weekend feel restorative.
It’s relaxation woven into nature, wrapped in small-town charm, and delivered with the kind of character you only find in West Virginia’s mountain towns.
Cacapon Resort State Park is right nearby: more hiking trails, fishing spots, and mountain overlooks. It’s history meets nature therapy.
Closing Thoughts
West Virginia’s got this perfect mix of adventure and tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Whether you’re scaling Seneca Rocks or soaking in Berkeley Springs’ mineral baths, each spot offers something different.
Back light, bring your camera, and prepare to be surprised. West Virginia might just become your new favorite escape.
