Explore the journey — one trail, museum, meal, and memory at a time.
Blackwater Falls & Dolly Sods
I woke at the overlook above Elkins with fog filling the valleys and drove the rough mountain road down toward town. After restocking supplies, I followed the storm north to Blackwater Falls, where rain poured and the campground was closed. By afternoon, I was on the rocky road to Dolly Sods, climbing into wind, fog, and the high country of West Virginia.
Spruce Knob & Seneca Rocks
I woke to fog and rain in the Monongahela National Forest and set out for Spruce Knob, the highest point in West Virginia. After exploring the summit’s alpine forest, I continued to Seneca Rocks for a steep hike, sweeping mountain views, and unexpected conversations about shutdowns, miners, and the strength of small mountain towns.
Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine
I began the morning at Twin Falls Resort State Park, then toured the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine with a retired mine inspector. He spoke about the work, the dangers, and even the rats that warned miners of bad air. From Beckley to Helen and Itmann, the Coal Heritage Trail traces stories of coal, community, and endurance—ending with quiet reflection in an abandoned company store.
Twin Falls State Park & Mullens
A quiet morning in Beckley turned into a full day of mountain roads and waterfalls. After finding the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine closed for the season, I explored the hills near Mullens and ended the day at Twin Falls Resort State Park. The trails to Marsh Fork and Black Fork Falls were damp but peaceful, and by nightfall I was camped beneath a clear sky.
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
The day started at the open Canyon Rim Visitor Center in New River Gorge, followed Fayette Station Road under the bridge, stopped at Babcock’s grist mill, and paused at Hawks Nest to confront the tunnel disaster. I grabbed ice cream in Ansted, explored historic Fayetteville, and ended the day at South Side Junction Tap House.