In 2023 , the lake ’ s designation as a state park expanded its offerings , introducing new camping areas , picnic spots and additional hiking , running and walking trails . Located on the north shore of the lake , Summersville Lake State Park is the ideal getaway for nature lovers year-round .
With all it has to offer , Summersville Lake showcases the best of West Virginia ’ s natural charm , serving as a perfect stop on a bucket list trip through the Mountain State .
Photo by Visit Greater Summersville .
Snowshoe Mountain Resort
A visit to West Virginia is not complete without a stop at Snowshoe Mountain Resort . This versatile destination offers countless activities and amenities that provide equal fun across the seasons for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers .
Photo by Snowshoe Mountain Resort .
Snowshoe is known for its worldclass skiing and snowboarding , sitting on 244 acres of terrain and more than 60 trails . These trails vary in difficulty , meaning folks of all skill levels are welcome to give them a shot . For freestyle options , Snowshoe offers terrain parks where skiers and snowboarders can move at their own pace .
Though very popular throughout the state and beyond , the resort ’ s winter options are far from all it has to offer . Snowshoe offers a plethora of activities in warmer months as well , including biking , hiking and offroading adventures . There are 40 miles of on-land trails , which makes the destination popular for mountain biking . The lakes and waterways also serve as an ideal spot for paddleboarding , kayaking and fishing .
Photo by Snowshoe Mountain Resort .
Once visitors are finished adventuring for the day , they can head to Snowshoe Mountain Village and browse the resort ’ s many dining , shopping and entertainment options , keeping the fun going even off the slopes . When they ’ re ready to settle down , guests can return to the resort ’ s cozy lodges to rest up for the day ahead .
With all it has to offer , Snowshoe Mountain Resort is the perfect destination to experience West Virginia ’ s natural beauty no matter the time of year .
Hatfield-McCoy Trail System
The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System , one of the largest off-road trail networks in the U . S ., is the perfect stop for ATV , UTV and dirt bike riders traveling through the area . The
system is named after one of the state ’ s iconic pieces of history — the Hatfield-McCoy feud , a violent and prolonged conflict between two families : the Hatfields of West Virginia and the McCoys of Kentucky .
Photo by Hatfield-McCoy Trail System .
The trails span over 1,000 miles through the remarkable Appalachian Mountains in Southern West Virginia and divide into multiple trailheads . Each offers its own unique experience , covering terrain such as winding forest paths , steep mountain ascents and scenic ridge lines , offering the perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty .
Each trail contains a different difficulty rating , with levels ranging from beginner to expert . The system includes trails such as the Braveheart Trail , rated easiest by 66 % of riders , and the Devil Anse Trail , rated more difficult by 53 % of riders . All trails and difficulty ratings can be found on The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System official website .
Photo by Hatfield-McCoy Trail System .
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