In the late 1990s, the internet was still finding its footing. Online news and travel guides were more of a dream than reality. And magazine publisher David Sibray was again hiking a West Virginia trail when he envisioned something new.
He conceived of a place on the developing World Wide Web where West Virginia residents and travelers could explore the state's natural wonders, rich history, and hidden adventures. That vision he called "West Virginia Explorer."
Since its inception, more than 25 years ago, the explorer has pushed the envelope and enjoyed a far-reaching impact on tourism, journalism, and outdoor adventure in the state. Today, it’s more than just a website. It’s a cornerstone of West Virginia’s travel identity.
The Birth of an Idea (1999–2000)
In 1999, David Sibray was already well-established as a magazine publisher, having been employed by Thomson Newspapers, now Thomson Reuters, as the publisher of West Virginia Golfer, Beyond 50 Magazine, and the West Virginia Retirement Times. But despite his deep roots in print media, he saw something extraordinary in the growing digital frontier. At a time when most tourism information was limited to brochures, travel agencies, and print magazines, Sibray imagined an online journalistic hub dedicated entirely to West Virginia.
That vision came to life with the creation of WVExplorer.com, which officially launched in 2000. Unlike other travel resources of the time, it wasn’t just a static listing of destinations. It was a living, breathing publication designed to share stories, historical insights, outdoor adventures, and insider knowledge directly from people who loved the state and knew it best.
In those early years, the website was a pioneering enterprise. It gave readers an accessible way to discover things to do in West Virginia, from hiking trails and camping spots to historic towns and roadside curiosities. The idea was simple yet groundbreaking: allow Web "surfers" to explore West Virginia virtually through authentic storytelling and local expertise, available anytime, anywhere online.
From State Gem to Leading Guide (2001–2006)
The response to West Virginia Explorer was swift and enthusiastic. Travelers from neighboring states, as well as lifelong West Virginians, flocked to the site to learn more. Its growing popularity earned it recognition as one of the first comprehensive online travel guides for West Virginia, setting a standard that many would later follow.
By 2006, West Virginia Explorer had expanded significantly, serving as the flagship website for more than 30 regional travel guides promoting destinations across West Virginia and the surrounding Appalachian region. This network allowed readers to dive deep into specific areas of interest—whether they wanted to explore mountain towns, embark on scenic drives, or discover lesser-known cultural landmarks.
It was during this time that West Virginia Explorer began gaining traction as an influential force in outdoor recreation tourism. As the state grew in popularity for whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and hiking, the site became a trusted source for planning West Virginia outdoor adventures, offering tips and guides unmatched by generic national travel platforms.
Recognition and Growth (2007–2014)
The success of West Virginia Explorer wasn’t just anecdotal: it was measurable. By 2008, the site had become a leading venue for promoting West Virginia’s outdoor recreation industry. Its reach and authority were recognized by tourism businesses across the state, including major players such as The Greenbrier as well as ACE Adventure Resort and Adventures on the Gorge, two of the largest outdoor recreation providers in the state.
This period cemented the publication's reputation as more than just a website. It was a trusted partner in the state's tourism economy—a platform that boosted small businesses, promoted conservation and heritage, and helped travelers uncover the Mountain State’s hidden gems.
A New Era of Mobile and Social Media (2011–2013)
As the digital world evolved, so did West Virginia Explorer. The rise of smartphones and social media transformed how people searched for travel information. Recognizing this shift, Sibray proposed a complete redesign of the site in 2011, with two major goals:
Mobile-Friendly Architecture: Readers were increasingly using mobile devices to plan trips and navigate destinations. West Virginia Explorer needed to be fully optimized for on-the-go travelers.
Social Media Integration: To keep pace with modern audiences, the platform needed to be shareable, interactive, and connected with the growing online community.
The new version of West Virginia Explorer launched in 2013, delivering a sleek, mobile-ready experience that made it easier than ever to explore West Virginia’s mountains, rivers, historic sites, and small towns.
This update also marked a shift in editorial strategy—from a small, centralized team of writers to a growing network of contributors, correspondents, editors, and photographers. More than 20 creators began shaping the publication, adding depth, diversity, and local authenticity to its content.
In 2014, Beth Gill, marketing director for ACE Adventure Resort, cited West Virginia Explorer as one of the top three online platforms where the resort invested marketing resources, noting the site’s unmatched ability to connect adventure-seeking travelers with authentic West Virginia experiences.
West Virginia Explorer Today: A Legacy of Discovery
More than 25 years after its founding, West Virginia Explorer remains one of the most recognized and authoritative online guides to West Virginia travel, history, and outdoor adventure. Its pages are filled with stories that celebrate:
- The Natural Beauty of the Mountain State: Guides to hiking trails, national parks, rivers, and scenic drives.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Features on historic towns, battlefields, folklore, and forgotten landmarks.
- Outdoor Recreation and Adventure: Resources for rafting, camping, climbing, fishing, and more.
- Hidden Gems and Local Secrets: Destinations off the beaten path that showcase the authentic spirit of West Virginia.
The platform has not only endured but thrived in a crowded digital landscape by staying true to its mission: connecting people with West Virginia through high-quality, authentic storytelling.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Exploration
As technology continues to advance, West Virginia Explorer is poised to evolve once again. Plans include expanding multimedia content, developing interactive maps, and integrating AI-driven travel planning tools—all while preserving the journalistic integrity that has made the publication a household name among West Virginia travelers.
Sibray envisions West Virginia Explorer not just as a guide, but as an ever-expanding digital community where writers, photographers, adventurers, and history buffs can share their love for the Mountain State. The site’s future will remain rooted in its founding values: exploration, authenticity, and a deep appreciation for West Virginia’s natural and cultural treasures.
West Virginia Explorer celebrates 25 years
On January 1, 2025, West Virginia Explorer celebrated its 25th year of publication.
West Virginia Explorer is a wholly owned publication of West Virginia Explorer LLC.Â
