West Virginia offers a diverse array of outdoor recreation opportunities that make it a top destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. From world-class whitewater rafting on the New and Gauley Rivers to scenic hiking and rock climbing in the iconic New River Gorge National Park, the Mountain State delivers thrilling experiences year-round. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, camping, mountain biking, and winter sports in the beautiful Appalachian Mountains. With its lush forests, winding rivers, and rich heritage, West Virginia offers a perfect setting for families, solo travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore breathtaking natural landscapes. Be sure to visit our guide for information about indoor and outdoor recreation in West Virginia.
The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System in southern and southwestern West Virginia sold nearly 95,000 trail permits in 2021—the highest number of annual permits sold in a single year, which was also the system’s 21st consecutive year of growth in ridership. Permit sales enjoyed a 46-percent lift over 2020 sales, according to Gov. Jim Justice, and 68 … Read more
Trout stocking has commenced for the spring 2022 season in West Virginia, and 60 sections of stream have so far been stocked, according to the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources. Stockings will increase in February and continue through spring. Updates on stocking are posted online at wvdnr.gov/fish-stocking. While fishing for trout in West Virginia, all … Read more
West Virginia hunters harvested 2,756 black bears during the combined 2021 archery and firearms seasons, a 22 percent decrease compared to the 2020 harvest of 3,541 bears. The decreased black bear harvest can be attributed to abundant mast production, which was 61 percent above 2020 numbers and eight percent above the long-term average, according to … Read more
You might have heard that black bear populations are increasing in West Virginia. What should you do if you see one when you’re hiking in the woods? Do you need to be concerned? The bear population has been increasing here, it’s true, but I’ve hiked thousands of miles in the state and have never seen … Read more
The Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative continues to build momentum one year after the couple’s transformational $25 million gift to West Virginia University. The namesake office the Smiths created is starting to see momentum from a concept the Smiths have instilled in the team—”the flywheel effect,” in which continuous effort compounds until … Read more
A labyrinth of uncharted caverns extends for hundreds of feet beneath much of the scenic farmland in eastern West Virginia, and while some of the state’s show caves are well known to visitors, this secret world goes largely overlooked. The subterranean world beneath Monroe County came into focus earlier this winter when two dogs that … Read more
The 2022 West Virginia Fishing Regulations Summary is now available online through the state Division of Natural Resources. Printed copies will also be available at license agents and division district offices in early January. Anglers are encouraged to review the new regulations to familiarize themselves with changes and should contact division offices for clarification if … Read more
Established a year ago, West Virginia’s flatwater trail commission is moving forward to connect resources for the state’s 14 water trails, including 88 miles of waterway being developed for paddling, kayaking, and fishing. Commission president Bill Currey says the organization has been studying trail systems in other states and will now move forward at home, … Read more
No matter which class of rapids paddlers are determined to take on, West Virginia is the place to find them. Here among the Alleghenies and Blue Ridge mountains, beginners and experts alike are bound to find the perfect run. As can be expected, all of these clean-flowing mountain rivers boast different classes of rapids, some … Read more
Guided hikes have been scheduled for January 1, 2022, at eight state parks in West Virginia in concert with the national First Day Hikes program. The hikes vary in length and difficulty, though most range from one to three miles and are suitable for all ages. The First Day Hikes are free and designed to … Read more
