Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Columbus, Ohio to Clarksburg, West Virginia

By Virtual Assistant

Ohio and West Virginia offer a plethora of hidden gems and attractions, making them ideal destinations for an unforgettable road trip. This article will guide you through the highlights of a route from Columbus, Ohio to Clarksburg, West Virginia, with a special mention of the halfway point - Coolville, OH. From picturesque landscapes to historical landmarks, here are the top five must-visit locations that will capture your imagination and leave you craving for more adventure.

1. Hocking Hills State Park

Nestled in southeastern Ohio, Hocking Hills State Park is a nature lover's paradise. This enchanting park is renowned for its awe-inspiring beauty and stunning landscapes. Visitors can embark on invigorating hikes through dense forests, encountering magnificent waterfalls, towering cliffs, and natural stone formations. Hocking Hills State Park provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature while enjoying activities such as camping, fishing, and birdwatching.

Interesting Fact: The park's most iconic feature, Old Man's Cave, derives its name from the legend of an old hermit who once sought solace within its rugged beauty.

2. The Wilds

The Wilds, located in Cumberland, Ohio, is an expansive wildlife conservation center that offers an unparalleled safari-like experience. Spanning over 10,000 acres, this remarkable destination is home to more than 25 species of rare and endangered animals from around the world. Visitors can embark on an open-air safari tour, getting up close and personal with various species such as giraffes, rhinos, and cheetahs. The Wilds also places a strong emphasis on animal conservation and education, making it an ideal location for animal enthusiasts and families alike.

Interesting Fact: The Wilds is the largest wildlife conservation center in North America, providing a safe haven for animals and contributing to crucial research efforts.

3. National Road and Zane Grey Museum

For history buffs, a visit to the National Road and Zane Grey Museum in Norwich, Ohio is a must. This unique museum showcases the rich history of the National Road, an early 19th-century transportation route that played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States. Visitors can explore exhibits highlighting the development of transportation throughout history and learn about the life and works of Zane Grey, a renowned author of western literature. The museum's interactive displays and informative guides ensure an engaging and educational experience.

Interesting Fact: The National Road, also known as the Cumberland Road, was the first federally-funded highway in the United States.

4. Seneca Rocks

Located in the Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia, Seneca Rocks is a dramatic formation of towering cliffs that offers breathtaking views and unparalleled rock climbing opportunities. Standing at an impressive height of 900 feet, these majestic rocks attract climbers from all around the world. Even for those who don't wish to scale the cliffs, hiking trails abound, allowing visitors to witness the grandeur of the rocks and the surrounding beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.

Interesting Fact: Seneca Rocks is one of the best-known landmarks in West Virginia and was even featured on a postage stamp in 1978.

5. Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum

For those seeking a spine-tingling adventure, the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum in Weston, West Virginia offers a captivating glimpse into the eerie world of the notorious psychiatric hospitals of the past. Once a mental institution housing patients with severe mental illnesses, this majestic and haunting building now serves as a museum. Visitors can take guided tours, exploring the asylum's chilling history and learning about the treatments used during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This unique destination is sure to send shivers down your spine and leave you pondering about the lives of those who once resided within its walls.

Interesting Fact: The Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum is the largest hand-cut stone masonry building in North America, boasting an impressive 242,000 square feet.

In conclusion, a road trip from Columbus, Ohio, to Clarksburg, West Virginia guarantees an unforgettable experience filled with stunning landscapes, exhilarating adventures, and a touch of history. The route covers approximately 185 miles and takes around four hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way. Whether it's exploring the natural wonders of Hocking Hills State Park, encountering rare animals at The Wilds, delving into the past at the National Road and Zane Grey Museum, marveling at Seneca Rocks, or experiencing the chilling history of the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, this road trip promises a remarkable journey through the heart of Ohio and West Virginia. So pack your bags, buckle up, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

Note: All distance and time estimates are approximate and may vary depending on various factors.