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David Sibray

David Sibray is the founder, publisher and editor-in-chief of West Virginia Explorer, a news and travel magazine devoted to the state’s history, tourism, outdoor recreation and economic development. For more information, he may be reached at 304-575-7390 or at editor@wvexplorer.com
West Virginia Coal
Communities

Fallen Heroes emergency response drill underway in West Virginia

by David Sibray

JULIAN, W.Va. — The Fallen Heroes Mine Emergency Response Drill is underway in the southern coalfields of West Virginia, bringing together mining experts, safety professionals, and mine rescue teams. The growing event, now in its third year, is dedicated to enhancing safety preparedness and response strategies while commemorating the individuals who have committed their lives … Read more

Vacationers Lodge In A Cabin At Snowshoe Mountain in West Virginia
Recreation

Snowshoe Mountain to open skiing, snowboarding by Thanksgiving

by David Sibray

SNOWSHOE, W.Va. — In advance of a strong El Niño, officials at Snowshoe Mountain have announced plans to open skiing and snowboarding on the day before Thanksgiving, weather permitting, featuring a new chairlift and an action-packed 2023-2024 events calendar. Snowshoe president Patti Duncan says crews are installing a new chair lift in advance of the … Read more

Chelsea Ruby And Governor Celebrate Tourism Boom
Communities

W.Va. officials announce record $7 billion annual tourism impact

by David Sibray

DAVIS, W.Va. — Officials are celebrating a record $7 billion annual tourism impact in West Virginia in 2022 — a 17 percent increase in visitor spending compared to pre-pandemic levels, far higher than the national overall 1 percent post-pandemic tourism recovery. Gov. Jim Justice joined more than 300 tourism-industry members to announce “West Virginia’s best … Read more

Elk In West Virginia
Attractions

Elk management tours return to Chief Logan State Park in West Virginia

by David Sibray

LOGAN, W.Va. — Tickets for guided tours of southern West Virginia’s elk management area are available and expected to sell out quickly, according to state officials. The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and West Virginia State Parks announce the much-anticipated return of Elk Management Tours, which allow nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers to witness … Read more

New River Gorge Bridge From New River in West Virginia
Recreation

Resort introduces half-day driving tours of New River Gorge

by David Sibray

FAYETTEVILLE, W.Va. — An outdoor-adventure resort based in the New River Gorge region in West Virginia has added guided driving tours to its line-up of travel adventures. Adjacent to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Adventures on the Gorge has developed a half-day scenic driving tour showcasing the park’s cultural and natural history, according … Read more