Route 50 is an impressive road in the United States. It stretches from coast to coast, with one end on the shores of Maryland, and the other in San Francisco, California. The road goes through many rural areas, and in places has been called "The Loneliest Road in America." This seems fitting in West Virginia, as well, where the road narrows and winds around incredible mountain roads through dense forests.
From the west, Route 50 enters West Virginia in Parkersburg, where it crosses the Ohio River.
The most western section of the road is rural but relatively flat and easy to navigate. It runs parallel to the North Bend Rail Trail, a renovated railroad trail great for hiking and biking.
Read more about the North Bend Rail Trail.
You'll get a brief glimpse of civilization as Route 50 passes through Main Street in Bridgeport.
Soon after Bridgeport, the road gets a lot harder to navigate. You'll be forced to slow down as the road narrows and sometimes even doubles back on itself, winding through the forest on the mountains.
You can take a welcome break from the intense curves at Cool Springs Park, which has been refreshing weary travelers for generations.
Find out what makes Cool Springs Park such a fun place to stop here.
Route 50 then travels through Cathedral State Park, home to the oldest and tallest trees in West Virginia.
Read more about Cathedral State Park here.
The road briefly passes into the corner of Maryland before entering West Virginia once again.
You'll see some stunning views along the road here.
There's a scenic overlook in Skyline to stop and take it all in.
Before you hit Virginia, you'll pass through Hampshire County.
This area is home to some of West Virginia's oldest history, with plenty of places to explore. You'll be glad to see a town again, and Romney is one of the oldest towns in the state!
Route 50 is getting some excitement this Spring... it will be part of a coast-to-coast yard sale! Here's where you can find out more.
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