West Virginia Explorer West Virginia Explorer News
Browse

Bianca BosworthBianca Bosworth

Born in Charleston, Bianca Bosworth spent years traveling the world as a travel nurse and freelance writer. In 2009 she returned to West Virginia to pursue a career in writing and mountaineering. She now calls Putnam County near Charleston home. She can be reached at 304-575-7390 or bosworth@wvexplorer.com.
The Middle Fork River at Audra State Park is among the most popular natural swimming holes in West Virginia, attracting visitors throughout the summer. (Photo courtesy Sebastian Chambers)
Travel / Transportation

The 12 best swimming holes in West Virginia for ideal summer escapes

by Bianca Bosworth

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Whether you’re chasing cool, crystal-clear waters or hidden natural pools tucked into lush forest valleys, these publicly accessible swimming holes in West Virginia offer the perfect summer escape. Keep in mind that there are hundreds across the Mountain State, many of which are sourced from clear mountain streams. Explore the best natural … Read more

Communities nationwide have used historic tax credits to transform aging downtowns into centers of housing, commerce, tourism, and community life.
Economic Development

West Virginia-backed Senate bill could spur new investment in historic downtowns across America

by Bianca Bosworth

LEWISBURG, W.Va. — Historic buildings, from New England mill towns to Appalachian downtowns, could become easier to restore under bipartisan legislation that would expand one of the nation’s most successful redevelopment incentives. U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito has joined lawmakers from both parties in sponsoring the Historic Tax Credit Growth and Opportunity Act of 2025, … Read more

Historic Harpers Ferry is dressed in red, white and blue for Independence Day, drawing visitors to one of West Virginia's most iconic destinations during the Fourth of July holiday.
Festivals / Events

Patriotic destinations worth visiting in West Virginia on Fourth of July weekend

by Bianca Bosworth

HARPERS FERRY, W.Va. — As Independence Day approaches, travelers across West Virginia are planning weekend getaways that combine scenic landscapes with the state’s rich American history. From Civil War landmarks and statehood sites to historic forts and presidential retreats, the Mountain State offers numerous destinations where visitors can reflect on the nation’s past while enjoying … Read more

Blackwater Falls in Tucker County ranks among the tallest and most visited waterfalls in West Virginia, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.
Natural Wonders

West Virginia’s highest waterfalls ranked: The Mountain State’s tallest cascades

by Bianca Bosworth

DAVIS, W.Va. — West Virginia’s rugged mountains, steep gorges and high-elevation streams have created hundreds of waterfalls across the state. While some are known for their width or scenic beauty, others stand out for their height. From the iconic Blackwater Falls to the towering cascades hidden in the Monongahela National Forest, these are the highest … Read more

Rural Women Entrepreneurs: The findings may be particularly relevant to West Virginia, where many communities are rural, and small-business ownership is vital to local economies.
Economic Development

Rural women entrepreneurs fuel economic growth in America’s small towns, WVU study finds

by Bianca Bosworth

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Rural women entrepreneurs may make up a relatively small share of business owners across the United States, but new research from West Virginia University suggests their impact on local economies is far greater than many communities realize. The study, conducted by researchers at West Virginia University and the University of Maine, found that rural women … Read more