There Are 3 Must-See Roadside Attractions All Within The Small Town Of Ansted, West Virginia
By Carolyn Harmon|Published June 28, 2022
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Carolyn Harmon
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Under Brown Mountain Lights the Beast of Blandenboro wanders this magical land where lighthouses shine on kingdoms only accessible by ferries. A Lost Colony of legends and pirates revealed in historical sites and majestic mountains with views that make us weep. The home of handmade sculptures and scrumptious cuisine. North Carolina leaves this long-time writer and artist breathless with endless surprises, including the unlikely warmth a winter walk on the beach can bring.
Since 1891 when it was incorporated, and probably long before that, Ansted, West Virginia was known as the “stopping-over” place for stagecoaches, as it was in the middle of Charleston and Lewisburg, two of the larger cities. Today, U.S. Route 60, aka Midland Trail, runs right through Ansted still a major stopping-over place because of some of its must-see roadside attractions. Riding through West Virginia is an adventure in itself, with its rolling hills, rivers, lakes, and natural beauty. But make sure you stop to enjoy these three worthwhile treks off the main road. You won’t be sorry.
1. The "world-famous" Mystery Hole will likely change you forever. And it is proclaimed as one of the "best-kept secrets" in the country. One reason might be that photos are forbidden inside the hole.
Mystery Hole, 16724 Midland Trail, Ansted, WV 25812, USA
History has it, this mysterious and exciting attraction was open for public view in mid-1973. And by the randomly-chosen decorations and artifacts, it is easy to see this place has been here for decades.
Inside you will lose your sense of balance, as the laws of gravity don't apply. If you make it out, don't forget to purchase a souvenir in the tiny gift shop.
2. For a more classically-historical experience, visit the grand Victorian Page-Vawter House. The lovely mansion was built in 1889-90 for the family of William Nelson Page, by Gauley Mountain Coal Co. carpenters, of which Page was president. The house sits in the center of town.
Page Vawter House, 20 Page St, Ansted, WV 25812, USA
As Page was an important man, no expense was spared inside or out. The interior’s 15 rooms are adorned with oak paneling with wainscoting. And if you’re a detailist, the door and window facings of solid walnut will impress you, as will the oak floors.
In 2007, the mansion was purchased by Jim and Debbie Campbell, who painstakingly restored it to its original condition following the Gauley Mountain blueprints.
3. Would you like a good stretch of the legs? Explore the sprawling 270-acre recreational area known as Hawks Nest State Park. Spend the day whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking, or sitting on a bench taking photos.
Hawks Nest State Park, 49 Hawks Nest Rd, Ansted, WV 25812, USA
This breathtaking wonderland is unforgettable, with winding country roads and a clifftop overlook along U.S. Route 60, offering the best scenic view in the state of the glorious New River, some 750 feet below.
In addition to the stunning views — can you believe there is a waterfall? Mill Creek Falls is located about midway along the Hawk's Nest Rail Trail, which leads from Ansted to the Hawks Nest State Park Marina.
And while you're at the marina and if you want to get off of your feet, jump in this boat for a fun scenic tour and exhilarating ride on the New River with unforgettable views of the New River Gorge, and the classic New River Gorge Bridge. Thousands of people visit this bridge in the fall to jump on Bridge Day.
A favorite way to end a day at this wondrous site is to peacefully look back from where you came, reflect on the gifts of the land, and inhale one last breath of fresh mountain air, as you watch another day sink into the peak of the majestic Gauley Mountain.
As you pack your bags for a lovely trip to Ansted to see these roadside attractions, remember to include a camera and a journal, as you will want to capture everything you see. And if you’re so inclined to see more of West Virginia, the Mountain State offers hundreds of reasons to visit.
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