The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Baltimore, MD to Morgantown, WV

Are you in search of a fun and exciting adventure this summer? Look no further than a road trip from Baltimore, Maryland to Morgantown, West Virginia! This route is packed with scenic views, historical landmarks, and plenty of opportunities to try something new. Halfway through the trip, make sure to stop by the quaint town of Little Orleans, MD, an ideal place for a picnic and a stretch of your legs. Here are the top five things to do on this road trip:

Explore the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Nestled along the Potomac River, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and history buffs alike. This 184-mile-long canal was once used to transport coal and other goods from Washington D.C. to Cumberland, MD. Visitors can take a scenic bike ride or walk along the towpath, explore the historic locks, and learn about the canal's impact on the region's development.

Fun Fact: The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park was nicknamed the "Grand Old Ditch" and was in operation from 1831 to 1924.

Experience the Thrill of Whitewater Rafting on the Youghiogheny River

Adrenaline junkies will want to add whitewater rafting on the Youghiogheny River to their itinerary. With Class III and IV rapids, this river offers an exciting challenge for experienced rafters. For those less experienced, there are calmer sections perfect for beginners. The Youghiogheny River flows through the heart of Ohiopyle State Park and boasts beautiful scenery along the way.

Fun Fact: The Youghiogheny River is known by locals as the "Yough" and was once used for logging and transportation.

Discover the Rich History of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Located at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is a hub of Civil War history and National Park Service heritage. Visitors can explore the historic buildings and museums, hike to stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and learn about the region's African American and Industrial Revolution heritage.

Fun Fact: Harpers Ferry was a vital transportation hub during the Civil War and changed hands between Union and Confederate forces eight times.

Visit the Monongahela National Forest

Nature lovers will want to make a stop at the Monongahela National Forest, which covers over 919,000 acres of breathtaking scenery. This vast wilderness offers a wide array of recreational activities, including camping, hiking, fishing, mountain biking, and scenic driving. The forest is home to diverse wildlife, from bald eagles and black bears to West Virginia's state fish, the brook trout.

Fun Fact: The Monongahela National Forest contains the highest peak in West Virginia, Spruce Knob, which stands at 4,863 feet tall.

Explore the Rich Coal Mining History at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine

Take a deep dive into West Virginia's coal mining history at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine. Visitors will have the opportunity to go on an underground tour of an authentic coal mine and learn about the mining workers' daily life. Above ground, visitors can explore the Coal Camp, which houses historic cottages, a church, and a schoolhouse.

Fun Fact: The current mine at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine was built in 1905 and was only recently retired in the 1980s.

After a full week of exploring these wonderful destinations, it's time to head back to your starting point in Baltimore. The round trip is approximately 435 miles and takes about 7-8 hours to drive. This road trip is a great way to experience the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of Maryland and West Virginia while making unforgettable memories. So, what are you waiting for? Pack up the car and hit the road!