Here's a little known fact: hidden away in the West Virginia woods is a scene that's straight out of a castle! The scene we're referencing is not actually a real castle (those do exist in the Mountain State, but they're few and far between). But it's so close to what you might find on the estate of a historic old European fortress that it almost could be.
Welcome to Hawks Nest State Park in Ansted, West Virginia.
And if you make it past the lodge and the aerial tram and the multiple restaurants and the jetboat and the history museum and the nature center to the hidden path that leads down to the Hawks Nest Overlook, it will only add to the magic.
Whatever it is, you'll definitely feel like royalty as you stand on the edge of this cliff, separated only by a strong stone wall from the miles and miles of rugged mountain ranges stretching out before your eyes!
If these pictures have piqued your interest, get some birds eye view drone footage of this overlook on the West Virginia State Parks website here. Or head here to get more information about vacationing to this area.
West Virginia is home to some of the most beautiful spots in the country, and it could take some time to explore them all! Here are a few of our favorites, in no particular order. If you're on the lookout for the most scenic places in West Virginia, look no further - you've found a shortlist of the best. How many of these amazing places in West Virginia have you already been to? Which ones are going to be added to your to-do list? Let me know!
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Babcock State Park, Fayette County
This 4,127-acre park is home to a charming grist mill, which grinds grain. Before exploring the park, you can purchase the grain and other souvenirs in the gift shop. This amazing little respite from the real world is one of the best places to blend nature and parks. We love it! Anyone craving good old WV scenery will find their itch to be scratched here.
West Virginia's largest lake covers more than 26,000 acres and is a popular spot for boating, swimming, fishing, and even scuba diving. The water is gorgeous, too!
Lost World Caverns, Lewisburg
Lost World Caverns has some of the most impressive cave formations in West Virginia. It's also home to many bats, making it an interesting spot for biologists to study. When it comes to West Virginia scenery, this one's almost unbeatable in its fabulosity.
Bissonnette Gardens at Oglebay Resort, Wheeling
These award-winning gardens span 16 acres of the resort. They are filled with flowers from April until October and tended by master gardeners.
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Dolly Sods Wilderness, Monongahela National Forest
This rocky wilderness in the Allegheny Mountains has a stunning variety of plants that are usually seen much further north. Wildlife enthusiasts might also catch a glimpse of foxes, bobcats, and bears.
Seneca Rocks, Pendleton County
Seneca Rocks has the only true peak on the East Coast, making it a popular spot for rock climbers. If you're less adventurous, there are also hiking trails around the lower parts of the rocks. New River Gorge is one of West Virginia's most stunning landmarks and has plenty of spots to explore. For a trip you'll never forget, go hiking, rafting, or sightseeing in this beautiful area.
Palace of Gold, Moundsville
The Palace of Gold is a New Vrindaban temple that CNN rated one of eight religious wonders to see in the US. Visitors can tour the building, which is decorated with marble, semi-precious stones, carved teakwood, stained glass, cut crystal, and gold leaf.
Spruce Knob, Pendleton County
Spruce Knob has the highest elevation in West Virginia and incredible views of the valleys below. High winds at the summit create "flagged trees", trees that are missing their branches on the windiest side.
Beartown State Park, Greenbrier and Pocahontas Counties
Beartown State Park was named for the many crevices and caves in the rocks, which people imagined would make great homes for bears. Visitors can hike through the rock formations on a wooden walkway.
Blackwater Falls State Park, Tucker County
This scenic state park is one of the most photographed spots in West Virginia, thanks to the stunning waterfalls throughout the park. You can get a good view of the main falls with just a short walk from the parking lot, or venture deeper into the park to see even more waterfalls up close.
Have you been to any of these beautiful places in West Virginia? We'd love to hear about your experiences! Are you planning to visit and just don't know where to hang your hat? Check out the amazing options from our friends at VRBO; you never know what adventure lies in store, starting with your stay!
If you'd like to see some of our state's best wonders all in one incredible journey, try this epic road trip in West Virginia through the Monongahela National Forest. Planning to road trip it and don't know what to pack? Check out our handy ultimate road trip packing list!
At one time, trains played a major role in our daily lives; and to this day we can enjoy the best train rides in West Virginia. Today we have the opportunity to board a train and ride across some of the Mountain State's most beautiful scenery. Some of the historic steam engine trains are now used as scenic passenger trains. With the decline of the railroads, most lines no longer exist. But those that did survive are magical, offering not only an excellent source of transportation but a unique look at our state's natural beauty. Let's explore these West Virginia train rides that are sure to make your season spectacular.
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1. The Durbin and Greenbrier Valley Railroad, Cass Scenic Railroad
A trip on the Cass Scenic Railroad is packed full of rich history, unforgettable scenic views, and a close-up encounter with the sights and sounds of an old-time original steam engine. Find out more on the Cass Train web page.
2. The Durbin and Greenbrier Valley Railroad, Tygart Flyer
A ride on the new Tygart Flyer explores remote regions of the wild and wonderful mountains making it one of the best West Virginia train rides.
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The 4-hour, 46-mile round-trip delight departs from the Elkins, West Virginia depot and travels along the crystal Shavers Fork of the Cheat River to a layover at the pastoral High Falls of Cheat.
Part of the joy on this excursion through the South Branch Valley of West Virginia is the sight of the iconic American bald eagles. Reserve a spot today on the Bald Eagles web page.
4. Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad, North Pole Express
Welcome in the magic of the holiday season with the annual Potomac Scenic Railroad's North Pole Express that goes to the North Pole and picks up Santa to save Christmas.
This 75-minute interactive ride offers milk and Mrs. Claus’ famous cookies, Christmas caroling, storytelling, and each child receives a gift from Santa.
No matter the time a year, as soon as it is announced, we recommend saving a seat on the North Pole Express web page. It's one of the best train rides in West Virginia.
