Top Five Best Places to Visit on a Trip Between Charleroi, Pennsylvania and Fairmont, West Virginia

Looking for a great road trip destination that's short but sweet? Look no further than the stretch of road between Charleroi, PA and Fairmont, WV! With plenty of beautiful scenery and interesting attractions along the way, you'll want to take your time and soak it all in. Here are our top five picks for the best places to visit on this trip.

The Route and Halfway Point: Smithfield, PA

Before we dive into the individual attractions on this trip, let's take a moment to appreciate the scenic beauty of the drive itself. If you're starting in Charleroi, PA, you'll be travelling south along State Route 88 for approximately 62 miles before reaching your destination in Fairmont. Along the way, you'll pass through small towns, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys.

The halfway point of this journey is the town of Smithfield, PA. Located just off Route 88, Smithfield is a quiet little hamlet that's perfect for a quick pit stop. Grab a bite to eat at one of the local diners or cafes, stretch your legs with a short walk around town, and enjoy the historical architecture of this charming community.

Stop 1: Coopers Rock State Forest

Located just a few miles off Route 68, Coopers Rock State Forest is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park covers over 12,000 acres and features hiking trails, picnic areas, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

One of the most popular attractions in Coopers Rock is the overlook at Cheat River Gorge. From this vantage point, you can see for miles in every direction and take in the stunning natural beauty of the area. Whether you're an avid hiker or just looking for a peaceful place to enjoy a picnic lunch, Coopers Rock State Forest is the perfect spot to spend a few hours.

Stop 2: Morgantown, WV

If you're looking for a bit of urban excitement on your road trip, Morgantown is the place to be. Located just 15 miles east of Coopers Rock, this city of approximately 30,000 residents is home to West Virginia University, which lends the town a vibrant, youthful feel.

There's plenty to see and do in Morgantown, from visiting the WVU Art Museum to taking a stroll along the Caperton Trail. Fans of college sports won't want to miss a Mountaineers game at Milan Puskar Stadium, and foodies will find no shortage of delicious restaurants, breweries, and cafes to explore.

Stop 3: Tygart Lake State Park

About 40 miles east of Morgantown, Tygart Lake State Park is a hidden gem of the West Virginia state park system. The park features a 1,750-acre lake that's perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming, as well as nearly 20 miles of hiking trails through old-growth forests and past scenic overlooks.

One of the most unique attractions at Tygart Lake State Park is the Bickle Knob Observation Tower. This 3-level tower stands 50 feet above the ground and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Whether you're a nature lover, an adventurer, or just looking for a relaxing place to spend the day, Tygart Lake State Park won't disappoint.

Stop 4: Prickett's Fort State Park

Just a few miles southeast of Tygart Lake State Park lies another treasure of the West Virginia state parks system: Prickett's Fort State Park. This historic site is home to a reconstructed frontier fort that dates back to the late 18th century, as well as several other historical buildings and displays.

Visitors to Prickett's Fort can explore the fort itself, as well as a nearby museum that showcases the daily life of early settlers in the region. There are also numerous events and festivals held at the park throughout the year, including living history exhibits and demonstrations.

Conclusion

Whether you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life or simply explore the natural beauty of West Virginia, this road trip has it all. From the stunning vistas of Coopers Rock State Forest to the unique history of Prickett's Fort State Park, there's something for everyone along this route. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an adventure you'll never forget!