A Trip to Remember: Top Five Popular Attractions between Charleston and Elkins
Are you a history buff or a nature lover? Do you like visiting fascinating places with unique stories to tell? If your answer is yes, then the journey from Charleston to Elkins in West Virginia might just be what you need. This trip offers you a chance to discover some of the state's finest attractions and breathtaking sights. So fasten your seatbelt and get ready to embark on an incredible adventure!
Sutton, WV: A Cozy Stopover
Sutton is a small town located at the halfway point between Charleston and Elkins. It's a charming and cozy stopover for travelers who wish to take a break and stretch their legs. Sutton offers tourists a broad range of services and amenities, including gas stations, restaurants, and accommodations. It's also home to some noteworthy museums that provide insight into the state's history and heritage. The Sutton Dam is a popular destination for fishing and hiking, offering visitors panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Top Five Places to See
Hawks Nest State Park: Located near Ansted, Hawks Nest State Park is one of West Virginia's most scenic and awe-inspiring destinations. The park features a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, whitewater rafting, and bird watching. But what makes Hawks Nest State Park truly special is its unparalleled beauty. The park boasts stunning views of the New River Gorge and provides visitors with an unforgettable experience of nature's grandeur.
Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine: Are you fascinated by the history of coal mining? Then you'll definitely want to stop by the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine. The museum offers visitors a chance to experience what it was like to work in a coal mine in the early 1900s. You'll take an underground tour of the mine, listen to stories from former miners, and see how the industry has evolved over the years. It's a fascinating and educational experience that's not to be missed.
Greenbrier Resort: The Greenbrier Resort is a luxurious and grand hotel located in White Sulphur Springs. The resort has a rich history, having hosted numerous presidents and celebrities since it first opened in 1778. The property features a casino, a golf course, spa services, and several restaurants. The hotel is also home to secret underground bunkers that were built to house members of the US Congress in case of a national emergency during the Cold War era. The Greenbrier Resort is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in grand architecture, history, and luxury.
Cass Scenic Railroad State Park: The Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is a paradise for train enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park features a historic steam-driven locomotive that takes visitors on a journey through the picturesque Appalachian Mountains. Along the way, you'll see lush forests, pristine rivers, and stunning vistas. The park also offers hiking trails, fishing spots, and guided tours of the historic logging town of Cass.
Cranberry Glades Botanical Area: The Cranberry Glades Botanical Area is a nature lover's paradise. It is located in the Monongahela National Forest and offers visitors a chance to witness a unique ecosystem of bogs and wetlands. The area features several hiking trails that take you through stunning landscapes filled with rhododendrons, mountain laurels, and other flora and fauna typical of the Appalachian region. It's a great place to relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature.
The Best Route for This Trip
The best way to enjoy this trip is to take Interstate 79 North from Charleston and exit at Route 19 South, heading towards Beckley. From Beckley, take Route 60 East to White Sulphur Springs, and then continue on Route 92 North to Cass Scenic Railroad State Park. Finally, take Route 39 East towards Marlinton, where you'll find the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area. From Marlinton, it's a short drive to Elkins. This route takes you through some of West Virginia's most picturesque landscapes, and lets you experience the beauty and history of the state firsthand. So pack your bags and hit the road – this is a trip you won't forget!