The 5 Best Outdoorsy Towns to Explore in West Virginia

The concept of an outdoorsy small town in West Virginia is a bit redundant—after all, you'd be hard-pressed to find a small spot in the Mountain State that wasn't positively surrounded by outdoor adventures. And yet, some places stand above the rest as shining examples of outdoorsy towns in West Virginia. Whether you're looking to kayak, zipline, hike, or simply admire the views, these towns deserve a spot on your itinerary.

1. Fayetteville

What started as a humble town called Vandalia in 1837 has since evolved into one of the most adventure-friendly destinations in West Virginia. It's an ideal home base for the New River Gorge, famous for its dramatic sandstone cliffs, whitewater rafting, and even rock climbing. Strolling through Fayetteville, you'll spot plenty of outdoor outfitters that can help you make the most of your time at the park. Looking for an adrenaline rush? Sign up for ziplining at New River Gorge, a gravity-defying adventure that will give you a newfound respect for heights! Afterward, grab a hearty burger or sandwich at the Secret Sandwich Society.

2. Harpers Ferry

Harpers Ferry is best known for its impressive history, particularly as the site of John Brown's raid just a few years before the Civil War. Some of the oldest buildings in town date back to the late 1700s, and the main stretch, High Street, has one of the most scenic layouts imaginable. Walking through town is an adventure in and of itself, but if you'd like to get a few more steps in, hike to Maryland Heights—a 4.5-mile out-and-back trail that leads to a beautiful overlook of the town. Harpers Ferry is truly one of the best hiking towns in West Virginia.

3. Davis

Located at 3,520 feet above sea level, Davis is West Virginia's highest incorporated town. In other words, it's a mountain lover's dream. It's located along the Blackwater River, just a few miles from the famous Blackwater Falls State Park. The town has a laid-back, welcoming feel, and whether you're stopping in for a beer from Stumptown Ales or a coffee from TipTop, you'll quickly feel like a local. One of the most popular outdoor experiences here is taking 200 stairs to the Blackwater Falls observation deck. It's a heart-pounding adventure, but it's worth every step.

4. Thomas

Just three miles away from Davis, Thomas is another outdoorsy town in West Virginia worth discovering. Nestled deep within the Monongahela Forest, the small town of Thomas has just as much character as it does stunning scenery. Thomas was founded in the late 1800s, and it was notoriously hard to get to. Even today, getting there means navigating some twisting mountain roads. But the good news is that once you're there, you'll want to settle in and stay a while. You'll be right near Dolly Sods Wilderness, with its network of stunning trails to enjoy. Or, if you'd like to be on the water, check out Blackwater Outdoor Adventures for kayaking trips and guided fishing excursions.

5. Summersville

Who doesn't love lake life? Summersville is famous for its namesake reservoir, with crystal clear water and dramatic sandstone cliffs. The lake is also at the heart of the town's recreational opportunities, inviting travelers to hike around it, paddle on it, or even scuba dive through its refreshing water. When you're ready to spend some time in town, pop into Maloney's Pub for a laid-back local watering hole with some delicious wings, onion rings, and beer.

Whether you're looking for a fun day trip or perhaps a weekend excursion filled with outdoor adventures, you'll be so glad you spent time exploring one of the best small towns in West Virginia for nature lovers. For even more travel inspiration, take a look at this list of the 13 best destinations in the U.S. for outdoor enthusiasts.