I live in the great state of West Virginia, and I can say I am proud. This state’s endless mountains and scenic beauty are to be envious of any other state. As summer is fast approaching, I begin to think of the adventures to be had over this freeing break from classes. With this thought in mind, I have come up with a summer bucket list of exciting adventures waiting to be had here in West Virginia. Here are my top six things to do this summer:
1. Cass Scenic Railroad
Located in Cass, W.Va., this diorama depicts the town of Cass when it was a vibrant logging town. Complete with a museum, restaurant and train expeditions, this is the place to be this summer. There are eight different trains for a wide availability and reasonable prices for all. The history and beauty in these high-rated tours are undeniable. It’s fun for the family, for a date night or a cool hang out with friends.
To see more about this adventure, check out their website.
2. Adventures on the Gorge
This campground is located in Lansing and is jam packed with outdoor excitement. The grounds consist of tent, RV and cabin settings. Spend a weekend here and leave satisfied; this place is definitely money well spent. Spas, ATV rides, horseback rides, mountain back trails, zip-lining, ropes courses, white water rafting and other water adventures (kayaking, paddle-boarding, fishing), caving, paintball fields and rock climbing — you’ll never be bored. This place literally has it all, every outdoor adventure possible. Take a moment from your summer and check it out with your loved ones.
For more information, check it out their website.
3. Nelson Rocks
Deep in the mountains of Nelson Gap, there’s a place called Nelson Rock to service all who love being high up in the sky. This place has all things up in high elevations including ziplining canopy tours and rock climbing. Specializing in rock climbing, they have all different kinds including sports climbing, top rope climbing and the Nation’s Premiere Via Ferrata (peg assisted rock climbing). The different types of climbing allow opportunity for a climber at any level. Want to make a weekend out of it? They have cabins, tent areas and other lodging available. These climbs are well worth your dollar as they are quality climbs with guides devoted to you getting the most of your experience. For example, the Via Ferrata is a 3.5 to 5-hour climb, gaining to 1085 feet in elevation with a 150 feet high and 200 feet long swinging bridge.
Want to know more? Check out their website.
4. Camden Park
Looking for a day of laughter and fun? Look no further than this retro amusement park located in Huntington. This park originally opened in 1902, so you won’t find any thrill rides here. This place is like a giant, year-round fair. There is good food, rides, games, mini golf and paddle boats. If you’re looking for a place to take some kiddos or even just a place to be a kid again, this is your place.
For pricing and more information click here.
5. Harper’s Ferry
Do you enjoy history? Want a thrill? Visit Harper’s Ferry. This National Park is rich in Civil War history. With museum and time period buildings, this place will take you back in time. There are guided tours and shops, as well as hikes with views that your eyes will thank you for. If you’re looking for a thrill, there are ghost and vampire tours as it is said that both lurk through the town. If that thrill doesn’t tickle your fancy, then check out the ziplining tours at the park.
To see more on the park, check out their website.
6. Lost World Caverns
This summer take a trip down under, below Earth’s surface to the Lost World Caverns located just outside Lewisburg. These caverns were discovered in 1942. Taking roughly 45 minutes to walk through, they offer guided or self-guided tours. There is an on-site museum featuring West Virginia’s largest collection of dinosaur and fossil replicas. The biggest attraction can be found within the cave, however, in the Wild Cave Tour. This four-hour tour takes you into parts of the cave you won’t see just by walking through it. Go on the tour and you’ll leave muddy, crawling and climbing through passageways like The Birth Canal and The Squeeze Box.
Check their website for more information.
