Set amidst the majestic Appalachian Mountains, long stretches of beautiful rolling hills, and plenty of lush greenery, West Virginia is definitely one of the most idyllic settings in the country. Not only that, but evidence of West Virginia’s incredible past is prominent almost everywhere you go. One of the best ways to experience all of the beauty that our gorgeous state has to offer is by taking advantage of one of our many West Virginia scenic byways. These byways lead you through some of the most stunning and history-rich parts of the state. There’s really nothing more relaxing than cruising down one of the best scenic byways in West Virginia and taking in all of the incredible views. So, gas up your vehicle and set off on one of these scenic roads in West Virginia for a truly unforgettable adventure.

1. Midland Trail
Midland Trail, Ansted, WV, USA
Bobbie Gallotos/Flickr
The Midland Trail will take you across some of the most rugged West Virginia terrain. Following US Route 60, the trail stretches from border to border, beginning at Kenova and going all the way to White Sulphur Springs. The road stretches and curves for approximately 180 miles and is full of scenic vistas and interesting things to do. One of the highlights of this trail is the sight of the epic New River Gorge Bridge, a 3,000-foot-long steel arch span.
2. Little Kanawha Byway
Little Kanawha River, West Virginia, USA
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
Following the winding Little Kanawha River, this byway takes you through expansive farmlands and charming farm towns. This 77-mile road will take about 2 to 3 hours to complete, starting at Mineral Wells and ending in Central West Virginia. Be sure to stop at the Burnsville Lake Wildlife Management Area, which is one of the most majestic wildlife areas in the country.
3. Northwestern Turnpike
Northwestern Turnpike, Romney, WV, USA
Jimmy Emerson DVM/Flickr
The Northwestern Turnpike is one of the most historic roads in West Virginia. It follows Route 50 from Capon Bridge to Parkersburg and had a major role in West Virginia's history as one of the main roads to cross the Appalachians. A popular stop on this byway is the peaceful and gorgeous Grafton National Cemetery.

Check out a portion of the Northwestern Turnpike drive:

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4. Staunton-Parkersburg Turnpike
Staunton Parkersburg Turnpike, West Virginia, USA
Google Maps
This 73-mile byway starts in Buckhannon and ends in Bartow, and it passes by countless history markers from the Civil War era. You'll pass by Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park, where you can get a real glimpse of life on a colonial plantation. Or you can simply explore the vast and gorgeous grounds.

Learn the history of the oldest road in West Virginia:

5. Highland Scenic Byway
Highland Scenic Highway, Highland Scenic Hwy, West Virginia, USA
Chuck Taft/Google
The Highland Scenic Byway is truly one of the most gorgeous drives in the entire state. This 43-mile highway will lead you straight through the incredible Monongahela National Forest. The byway begins in Richwood and ends seven miles north of Marlinton, gaining an elevation up to 4,500 feet above sea level. You won't be able to resist stopping at one of the many scenic overlooks, which offers up heart-stopping views of the Allegheny Mountains.

Check out the beautiful sights along this scenic byway:

6. Coal Heritage Trail
Coal Heritage Trail Interpretive Center, 100 Simmons Ave, Bramwell, WV 24715, USA
kartografia/Flickr
Coal mining plays a prominent role in West Virginia's history, and this scenic byway takes you through the remnants of this past. Starting in Bluefield and taking you all the way to Ansted, 99 miles away, you'll be able to experience both the amazing recreational and natural attractions that the Coal Heritage Trail has to offer, including old coal mines and long abandoned railroad structures. You'll even get to see firsthand the remains of historic coal camps including old houses, stores, and company offices. Another highlight of this byway is the beautifully tranquil New River Gorge National Park.
7. Lower Greenbrier River Byway
Greenbrier River, West Virginia, USA
jpmueller99/Flickr
If you're looking for a relatively short drive that still packs in a ton of charm, then look to the Lower Greenbrier River Byway. This 27-mile-long drive follows the incredibly serene Lower Greenbrier River with a backdrop of beautiful countryside. The quaint town of Alderson is a popular stop on this highway which contains several historical markers such as the restored Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad Depot.

What do you think of these scenic roads in West Virginia? What’s your favorite scenic drive to take in West Virginia? If you thought these drives looked peaceful, then hop in the car for a road trip to check out this drive down West Virginia’s loneliest road!

 

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More to Explore

Road Trip Attractions in West Virginia

William Suphan | August 17, 2023

What are the most impressive natural wonders in West Virginia?

The most impressive natural wonders in West Virginia include:

  • Seneca Rocks. These rocks are not only absolutely beautiful but are very popular with local rock climbers.
  • The New River Gorge. This is one of the oldest rivers on the planet with amazing views and great whitewater rafting.
  • Seneca Caverns. Native Americans were living in these majestic caverns starting around the 1400s and the caves are stunning.
  • Sandstone Falls. This place is quite popular with locals and the natural beauty here is hard to forget.

Learn more about the most impressive natural wonders in West Virginia. 

What are the most incredible sightseeing tours in West Virginia?

The most incredible sightseeing tours in West Virginia include:

  • The Wild Cave Tour. Located in Lewisburg, this 45-minute tour will take you deep into the Lost World Caverns.
  • Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine. Veteran miners will take you through this coal mine and show you what it was like to work as a coal miner.
  • Greenbrier Bunker Tour. This massive bunker was built to house Congress if a nuclear war took place. It is no longer intended for this purpose but it’s worth the tour.
  • Gren Bank Observatory. This is the world’s largest fully-steerable telescope on Earth and is taller than the Statue of Liberty.

Learn more about the most incredible sightseeing tours in West Virginia. 

What are the most incredible natural attractions in West Virginia?

The most incredible natural attractions in West Virginia include:

  • Dolly Sods. This wilderness area in the Monongahela National Forest has gorgeous white rocks and colorful bogs that are otherworldly.
  • Ice Mountain. Tons of ice can be found here even in the middle of summer due to how the rocks draw in and cool the air.
  • The Trough. This gorge has the Potomac River flowing through it and there is a train you can ride to take in the amazing views.
  • Spruce Knob. This mountain is not only the highest point in the state but in the entire Allegheny Mountain chain.

Find out more about the most incredible natural attractions in West Virginia. 

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