West Virginia鈥檚 famed country roads offer an open invitation. Weaving across rugged terrain and through spirited small towns to uncrowded gems and world-class outdoor adventures alike, the roads form a latticework of endless possibilities for road trip itineraries. Five customized can help connect activities that range from pristine biking to productive fishing, with prime camping options all along the way. While whitewater river sections rightfully earn their share of attention, diverse waterways and lakes across the state offer for every skill level. Start your trip-planning with route options that lean into West Virginia鈥檚 best serene paddling experiences.
Family Friendly
may share a shore with West Virginia鈥檚 as of 2023, but paddlers have flocked here for decades to cruise the lake鈥檚 clear waters and 60-plus miles of shoreline. Starting from Salmon Run boat launch, kayak or stand-up paddle a mile to Pirate鈥檚 Cove for its signature waterfall that pours into the lake. For added miles, paddle three miles from Salmon Run to Long Point, where the sandstone cliffline juts 60 feet above the water. Rock climbers know Summersville Lake (pictured above) as a premier deep-water soloing destination, though regulations prohibit jumping from cliffs into the water from higher than six feet.
Local Gem
is the mecca for watersports in Mountaineer Country; everyone from swimmers to jet skiers shares this 14-mile section of the dammed Cheat River. On a kayak or SUP, launch at Edgewater Marina and paddle a mile upstream to Quarry Run, where you鈥檒l find a waterfall near the confluence. Or sign up for a on Cheat Lake, complete with a private put-in.
Road-Trip Tip > , along with Cheat Lake, is the perfect start and end point to the听 road trip, with plenty of outdoor adventure options and just as many restaurants.
Next Level
The 10.5-mile section of the 鈥攁 designated National Scenic River鈥攆lows between the launch at the Old Mill camping area in . Paddle upstream for mellow Class I water along a secluded river stretch or downstream on Bluestone Lake, created by the dam. Plan time to pit-stop at the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lake and Splash Park, which includes a dozen large inflatables that notch up the fun of a lake day.
+ Refuel Detour: After your float on Summersville Lake, have an ice cream float at. Claim a free pup cup if you鈥檝e brought your dog on the adventure. July sees perfect lake temperatures and Fat Eddie鈥檚 hot dog鈥揺ating contest. Near Cheat Lake is the popular downtown Morgantown restaurant听. Enjoy a comfort-food sandwich and a craft West Virginia beer on the patio. Check the calendar regularly鈥攅vents like the monthly Wakaba Ramen 鈥渢akeover鈥 sell out in minutes.
Explore spirited small towns, undiscovered and uncrowded hidden gems, and world-class outdoor adventures in the Mountain State, where country roads lead you far away from everything鈥攁nd a little closer to heaven. 听