The 4 Most Colorful Places You Can Find in West Virginia

There are so many reasons to travel to West Virginia—the stunning landscape, the fascinating history, and the tight-knit communities. But really, it all boils down to one quality: vibrancy. There's a richness to the Mountain State that's hard to describe, but there's proof of it everywhere you look. Below are just a few places you can visit if you want to experience the visual hues that make this state so magical. Just be sure to have your camera ready!

1. New River Gorge

Layered mountain ridges, vibrant foliage in the fall, and stunning sunsets year-round—these are just a few reasons why New River Gorge might just be the most colorful place in West Virginia. Whether you're admiring the view from Grandview Overlook or the Endless Wall, you'll be awestruck by the natural beauty. One of the best times to visit the gorge is in the early morning, when an ethereal fog rises from the river.

2. Wheeling

If you're someone who appreciates art, downtown Wheeling is a highly underrated destination. Amidst colorful brick streets and historic architecture, you'll find inspiring murals that speak to the town's history and culture. One of the best ways to take in all of this public art is the Wheeling Public Art Trail, featuring more than 70 works of art.

3. Dolly Sods

You could argue that any mountainous landscape in West Virginia is colorful, but there's something extraordinary about the Dolly Sods Wilderness. This high-elevation plateau has an ecosystem that's totally unique from the rest of the state, resulting in a distinct color palette. In late September and early October, look for the blueberry shrubs that turn bright red and crimson. Set against the evergreens and blue mountains, they create an unforgettable tapestry of color.

4. The West Side Wonder Mural, Charleston

A trip to West Virginia's capital city will be an enriching experience in every sense of the word. Colorful, bright murals decorate alleyways and building facades, letting you appreciate pops of color at almost every turn. One iconic mural in Charleston certainly qualifies as one of the most colorful places in West Virginia: the West Side Wonder Mural. Painted by Charley Jupiter Hamilton, it's an homage to West Virginia's famous residents and community members. It's the perfect place to snap a photo or reflect on the city's unique personality.

Tips for Visiting and Photographing Colorful Spots in West Virginia

Whether you plan on being out in nature or strolling a city sidewalk, a little preparation can go a long way when it comes to photographing colorful spots in West Virginia. One of the most important things to remember is that timing is everything. To capture the best lighting, you might consider going out in the early morning or golden hour, which is right before sunset. You'll also want to keep the time of year in mind, as the landscape can change dramatically according to the season. Lastly, while taking photographs might be your goal, there's really nothing that compares to the experience of being there, so be sure to take a few minutes to immerse yourself in your beautiful surroundings!

What Makes West Virginia So Colorful

It's hard to pinpoint what quality makes West Virginia so colorful, but it seems to stem from the landscape. West Virginia is covered in mountains, but there's plenty of water, too. A hidden waterfall, a beautiful lake, or even the iconic New River create a magnificent, ever-changing backdrop to your West Virginia adventure.

So, there you have it. Of course, these are just a handful of colorful spots in a state that has countless more. Which will you visit first? Share this article with a friend and let the adventures begin! Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip to West Virginia using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.