Top Five Places to Visit on a Trip Between Charleston, West Virginia and Blairsville, Pennsylvania
Are you planning a road trip between Charleston, West Virginia and Blairsville, Pennsylvania? If so, you're in for a treat! This scenic trip takes you through the mountains and valleys of both states and offers plenty of opportunities to explore charming towns, breathtaking parks, and historical sites. To help you make the most of your journey, we've compiled a list of the top five places to visit along the way.
Halfway Point: Bridgeport, WV
Before we dive into our top five picks, let's take a moment to highlight the halfway point of the trip: Bridgeport, West Virginia. This quaint town is situated along the picturesque Tygart Valley River and boasts a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. If you're a history buff, be sure to check out the "S" Bridge, which was built in 1852 and is one of the oldest standing bridges of its kind. For outdoor enthusiasts, the rivers and forests surrounding Bridgeport offer great opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping.
1. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, WV
Our first stop on this road trip is one of West Virginia's newest national parks: New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. This stunning park spans over 70,000 acres of land and features the New River Gorge, which is over 1,000 feet deep and 10 miles long. Visitors can hike, bike, or drive along the scenic canyon rim, or choose to take a thrilling whitewater rafting trip down the New River. The park also offers a range of camping and lodging options, so you can make the most of your visit.
2. Fallingwater, PA
As you cross into Pennsylvania, be sure to stop by one of the state's most iconic buildings: Fallingwater. Designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright and completed in 1939, this stunning home is built directly over a waterfall and seamlessly blends into the natural surroundings. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and grounds to learn about Wright's design philosophy and the history of Fallingwater.
3. Flight 93 National Memorial, PA
A somber yet important stop on this road trip is the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. This memorial honors the 40 passengers and crew members who lost their lives on United Airlines Flight 93 during the September 11th terrorist attacks. Visitors can walk through the memorial plaza, which features a wall of names and a symbolic Tower of Voices that emits musical sounds. The visitor center also offers exhibits and displays that tell the story of Flight 93 and its heroic passengers.
4. Ohiopyle State Park, PA
Nature lovers will appreciate our fourth stop on this road trip: Ohiopyle State Park. Located in southwestern Pennsylvania, this park features a range of outdoor activities that cater to all ages and interests. Visitors can hike over 80 miles of trails, go fishing or kayaking in the Youghiogheny River, or simply relax and enjoy the scenic views. In the winter, the park also transforms into a winter wonderland with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities.
5. Laurel Caverns Geological Park, PA
Our final stop on this road trip takes us to the depths of Laurel Caverns Geological Park. This limestone cave system spans over three miles and features a range of unique rock formations, underground lakes, and even an underground waterfall. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave and learn about the geology and history of the area. The park also offers other attractions such as gem mining, mini-golf, and a zip line course.
In Conclusion
Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for an adventure, these five stops offer a diverse array of experiences that will make your road trip between Charleston, West Virginia and Blairsville, Pennsylvania one to remember. From the stunning New River Gorge to the serene beauty of Ohiopyle State Park and the somber yet powerful Flight 93 National Memorial, there's something for everyone along this route. So what are you waiting for? Hit the road and start exploring!