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Recreation

See our Recreation Travel Guide

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.

ACE Adventure Gear
Recreation

Resort opens store in growing adventure mecca on New River Gorge

by David Sibray

One of West Virginia’s largest adventure resorts is investing again in the burgeoning outdoor-adventure community at Fayetteville on the New River Gorge. ACE Adventure Resort, which hosts more than 50,000 guests annually near Oak Hill, has opened a 5,500-square-foot gear store at the entrance to Fayetteville’s historic downtown — an investment that’s already enjoying returns, … Read more

Court Street, Fayetteville West Virginia (WV)
Recreation

Two Fayetteville, W.Va., bike shops recognized nationally for outreach

by David Sibray

The League of American Bicyclists has selected two bike shops in Fayetteville to receive its Bicycle-Friendly Business designation, according to a spokesperson from a regional active-living initiative for the New River region of southern West Virginia. New River Bikes and Marathon Bicycle Company were awarded silver-level designations for their efforts to accommodate and encourage bicycle riding … Read more

North Bend Trail near Cornwallis, WV, Ritchie County, Heartland Region
Recreation

North Bend cliffs host climbing adventures beginning in April

by David Sibray

North Bend State Park is introducing adventurers to rock climbing and rappelling on cliffs overlooking the North Fork of the Hughes River as part of the park’s outdoor-adventure initiative. The $175 two-day adventure for two includes overnight camping and climbing and camping equipment and is available April through September, according to park naturalist Ken Zebo. The climbing-and-rappelling … Read more

Unnamed in West Virginia
Recreation

DNR to host Archery-in-the-Schools tournament March 25

by Will Reedy

The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources will host the 12th annual West Virginia Archery-in-the-Schools state tournament at the Charleston Civic Center Saturday, March 25, according to Art Shomo, Program Coordinator. The event will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., followed by an awards ceremony at 4:30 p.m. Students from the following schools have … Read more

The monument along Charleston's Carriage Trail states that two women convicted as Civil War spies were executed and buried nearby. Historians continue to debate the evidence behind the long-accepted account.
Recreation

Walking the Carriage Trail in Charleston, W.Va.

by David Sibray

Few of the trails I’ve walked compare to the Sunrise Carriage Trail, once the winding approach to Sunrise, the stately residence of William Alexander MacCorkle, ninth governor of West Virginia. Now a municipal thoroughfare, the trail ascends 180 feet over a .65-mile route from MacCorkle Avenue (US-60). Have an hour to spend immersed in exercise … Read more

Free Fishing Days in West Virginia
Recreation

Free fishing weekend (June 7-8) to boost travel

by Will Reedy

This weekend (June 7-8) is free fishing weekend in West Virginia — that time of year when anglers can fish without a license and everyone seems hooked on the sport. Rangers are expecting increased activity on waterways, and ponds on private properties will enjoy a boost as well. The old-time bamboo poles that staff at … Read more