These mountains may be old, but they are always full of new surprises to discover.
It is a simple fact: West Virginia is made up of extraordinary places to explore and extraordinary ways to do so. Anyone who has spent a few hours roaming our mountains knows this. From local events for the awe-inspired pupil to heart-pumping action for the thrill seeker and gentle journeys for the whole family, West Virginia knows how to get you to take a closer look and find a new perspective.
In no specific order, we share a few unique ways for you to experience West Virginia this summer. Maybe we’ll tag along for the ride …
CRANBERRY ADVENTURES
If you’ve spent much time exploring West Virginia’s wild places, then you’ve probably spent some time in the Monongahela National Forest, one of the state’s most sprawling and oft-visited outdoor destinations. You may have even wandered the 47,815-acre Cranberry Wilderness tucked within it. But you’ve probably never experienced it quite like this.
Cranberry Adventures, a tour service through the Cranberry backcountry, humbly markets itself as “the biggest asses on the river”—and it’s not talking about the staff. Venture out with the crew from atop a wagon, pulled by a hardworking team of mules who know the land better than you could ever hope to. Yes, you heard that right: mules. What better companions to enjoy a camping trip with?
The story starts with Rick Green, an angler looking for an easy—and more fun—way to get out to his favorite fishing spots in the backcountry. Mules seemed like the most interesting answer. Now, for nearly two decades, Cranberry Adventures has been taking intrepid travelers and families along for a one-of-a-kind outing with the help of four-legged team members like Jack, Clyde, Honey, and Buck.
You can book a trip spring through fall. The Full and Do It Yourself packages include four days in the backcountry for four to 12 people. You just have to decide if you want to bring all your own gear or get a little help from the Cranberry Adventures supply. Day trips make for great family picnics and celebrations in the heart of wilderness if you feel up for ditching your backyard plans.
Each travel package requires you to bring some gear from home, and there is a weight limit. Plan ahead and pack smart! cranberryadventures.com
THE GREAT BUNGEE COMPANY
One of the state’s newest adrenaline-pumping adventures has just opened for its inaugural season, and brave souls with guts of steel are flocking in. The Great Bungee Company brings three decades of experience to Harpers Ferry to offer stalwart visitors an experience rivaled only by the longstanding Bridge Day jumps. Participants take a 150-foot plunge from the newly built cantilevered bungee tower into the Old Standard Quarry, a former limestone quarry that provides a lovely picturesque view for you to scream at as you fall.
And surprisingly, the experience is pretty customizable—within reason. Before each session, jumpers are given a short safety briefing that covers general instructions, details on retrieval, and what your options are. They have a choice between an ankle or body harness, a forward dive or backwards fall off the platform, and whether or not they want the chance of being dipped in the water below. For those interested in commemorating the experience, a video of each jump is available for purchase—every scream, laugh, and hilarious expression thoroughly captured.
The Great Bungee Company is open seven days a week, weather permitting, through the end of November. greatbungee.com
WILD BLUE ADVENTURE COMPANY
West Virginia looks unreal from the hiking trail, overlook, or observation tower. But the really breathtaking views require a higher perspective—and a little bravery. Thankfully, Wild Blue Adventure Company is ready and willing to help you find them
See the state from a birds-eye view with a ride in Wild Blue’s vintage World War II Stearman biplane, painted a familiar blue and gold. Pilot Bill Chouinard shares over 20 years of flight experience with sky-minded West Virginians, and he’s joined by his family in giving passengers the ultimate aerial experience in the New River Gorge area.
Flights range from a 20-minute cruise over the New River Gorge and surrounding nature attractions to an hour-long expedition over New River Gorge, Summersville Lake, and Kanawha Falls. Feeling extra adventurous? Chouinard is happy to add in some aerobatics, if you’re up for it. Barrel rolls, S-turns—the pilot will oblige where reasonable, so ask before take off.
The fun doesn’t have to end when the flight does. Minutes from Fayetteville and the state’s only national park, the on-site Aviator’s Lounge lodging option keeps you close to the excitement. It offers two- or three-bedroom suites with a chef’s kitchen, a breakfast bar, and access to a heated saltwater pool and outdoor patio, all situated right on the hangar with a lovingly curated aviation theme. You can find more info on Wild Blue’s website or see snapshots from recent flights on its Facebook page. wildblueadventurecompany.com, @wildblueadventurecompany
JOURNEY ON THE RAILS
If you find yourself in Clay County, you have to make some time for Rail Explorers. Giving life to a rail line that snakes along the Elk River, Rail Explorers lets you hop into a pedal-powered rail bike and take off on a two-hour excursion you won’t find anywhere else in the state. These rail bikes—the two-seat Tandem Explorer and the Quad Explorer for groups of four—also come with a motor-assist, allowing riders to propel themselves along the track while still keeping things fun and accessible. Bikes are limited and fill up quickly, so reserve your spot today! railexplorers.net/locations/elk-river
SYNCHRONOUS FIREFLIES AT WATOGA STATE PARK
If you think back on the balmy summer nights from your childhood, fireflies—you may have called them “lightning bugs,” like us—probably have at least a supporting role. They’re a staple of the summer experience, and Watoga State Park can help you relive that magic with a little extra something flashing on top.
Different from the randomized pulsing light of the common fireflies spotted in backyards during warmer months, synchronous fireflies (Photinus carolinus) flash in complete unison in a distinctive mating display that makes you take notice. It’s a rare event, happening for only a couple of weeks each summer, and Watoga State Park is one of the few places in the state to witness it.
These dazzling insects go hand-in-hand with Watoga’s official designation as a Dark Skies Park through DarkSky International, one of just three such locations in the state. The lack of light pollution—both a natural and a carefully maintained phenomenon—creates the perfect atmosphere for a two-for-one special: clear views of glistening stars above you, and the hypnotic blinking of fireflies all around you.
A Bright Adventure
Bring your family for an overnight stay at Watoga in mid- to late June for the chance to see these creatures at their peak. wvstateparks.com/watoga-state-park
VIA FERRATA TOURS
While many outdoor recreationists prefer activities that keep them close to the ground or on the water, others prefer going up—with some ground still underneath their fingertips, of course. West Virginia has some of the best rock climbing in the East, drawing climbers from all over the world to experience the thrill. And where do they often go? Pendleton County.
The via ferrata at NROCKS is a one-mile permanent climbing system in the rock face made of steel rungs and cables. The concept was created in Italy to safely move troops during World War I—the name meaning “iron way” or “by way of iron”—but has become a popular method for climbing recreation around the world. Here in Circleville, experienced and qualified guides lead mountaineers along the double-fin rocks as they gain over 1,000 feet in elevation for an out-of-this-world climb and incredible views of the Potomac Highlands.
For climbers looking for something even more adventurous, sign up for a via ferrata Full Moon Tour. You’ll scale Nelson Rocks with the help of your guide and the luminescence of the full moon. In order to participate, however, climbers must have completed the via ferrata at NROCKS at least once prior to their expedition. Visit the NROCKS website for more detailed information and to book your tour. nrocks.com/via-ferrata
THE MOUNTAIN’S COASTER
Opened in 2025 and inspired by similar coasters found in Tennessee, the Brush Creek Holl’r Mountain Coaster is the first of its kind in the state.
Riders will travel up to 30 mph and reach heights of 700 feet, all powered by gravity. A manual braking system puts the riders in charge, so they can guide the experience. Fly along the mountainside, weave among trees, breeze through 360-degree turns, and catch glimpses of the rolling West Virginia hills. You can pick up individual tickets, family bundles, and unlimited day passes online, and memberships are also available for those who want to enjoy the fun all season long. brushcreekhollr.com
ALMOST HEAVEN STAR PARTY
While the Mountain State is full of stunning views in every direction, sometimes the best one requires you to look up. Hosted jointly by the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club and Experience Learning, the Almost Heaven Star Party in Circleville encourages you to take in nature’s beauty from an upward-angled perspective. August 10–16, hundreds of star-loving attendees will gather at the Spruce Knob Mountain Center on the Experience Learning campus for a week of astronomy-focused fun. It’s an immersive experience, the campground filled with tents, observation equipment, and eager participants.
During the day, when the sun is up and the stars are hiding, there is plenty to keep you busy until nightfall. Hiking, canoeing, and even caving are offered, and trips to Cass and Green Bank Observatory aren’t out of the question. Workshops and gear swaps are also on the schedule, along with talks and presentations from a selection of speakers.
But when the sky darkens, the real fun begins. After everyone returns from their various activities and has had their fill of dinner, the equipment comes out and all eyes turn toward the sky. From simple binoculars to high-tech telescopes—and even the naked eye—there are plenty of ways to take in the majesty of the night sky stretching out above us. Attendees are encouraged to talk with others as they enjoy the night, sharing tips, insights, and their own observations.
Visit ahsp.org to learn more and reserve your spot!
OLSON OBSERVATION TOWER
As one of the most forested states in the U.S., it only makes sense that West Virginia was covered in fire towers at one point in our history—roughly 100 at their peak. As times changed and technology developed, fire towers fell into disuse and eventually disrepair, leaving only a few still standing today.
The first fire tower to be built and established in West Virginia was erected on Backbone Mountain in Tucker County in 1922, according to the U.S. Forest Service. Eventually, it was replaced with a 100-foot tower and renamed Olson Tower in 1963 after Ernst B. Olson for his dedication to fire control and conservation in the national forest.
Years after retiring from service as an official fire watch tower alongside many other towers in the state, efforts to restore these constructions and convert them to tourism destinations went underway. Now, travelers can visit the tower and make their way up the 133 steps to the top—and from there, gaze down into the Blackwater Canyon or take in the sight of Otter Creek Wilderness from above.
The Olson Observation Tower is open from mid-April to December when road conditions are clear. It can be accessed by car via Forest Road 717 off U.S. Route 219. Outdoorsmen and -women who prefer two feet over four wheels can take one of several trails in the Monongahela National Forest straight to the steps. The most popular option tends to be the 3-mile Canyon Rim Trail. More information can be found on the U.S. Forest Service website. fs.usda.gov
GREENBRIER EXPRESS WILD WEST SPECIAL IN DURBIN
Get a taste of the Wild West right here in our own wild lands.
The Greenbrier Express is a steam-powered train that runs along the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad from May through October, following the river as it winds its way from Cass to Durbin. Thousands of riders travel from all across the region for a gentle, scenic ride through areas not easily accessible otherwise. But for a few days of the season, some unexpected visitors will join passengers along the way.
On July 31 through August 2, guests will take off on the Wild West Special, a 5.5-hour outing with a special twist. The journey begins in the usual fashion as the train leaves Cass, making its way to Durbin and giving passengers plenty of views along the river. Once it reaches its destination, however, things take a turn as the train stumbles upon a Wild West bank robbery that leads to an eventual takeover for the ramble back to Cass.
It’s an immersive experience that combines dedicated reenactors with a historical rail town backdrop for wild family fun. Included in your ticket price is a cold cut lunch, so don’t worry about packing a meal. All you have to do is show up, sit back, and take in the beauty of Pocahontas County—with a few bank robbers in the mix. mountainrailwv.com/wild-west-special
A TRAVEL TIP
The Wild West Special includes a gun fight reenactment using blank rounds fired near the train. Greenbrier Express operators urge guests to be aware of their surroundings and bring earplugs for anyone who may be sensitive to the noise.
WHEELING HERITAGE TRAILS
Golden Horseshoe participants and history buffs alike know why Wheeling is one of the more historical communities in the state. As a pivotal player at the center of West Virginia’s succession from Virginia in 1863, Wheeling is home to numerous landmarks and locations that add to the area’s heritage and charm. And you can see it all via one trail network.
The Wheeling Heritage Trails is a system of more than a dozen miles of paved pathways offering a glimpse into the city’s past and present and making it easy to get some light exercise while you take in the historical splendor. See the Wheeling Suspension Bridge, an 1840s construction that helped extend the National Road westward. It opened the city to new people and products and earned it the nickname “The Gateway to the West.” Explore Wheeling Heritage Port and its role in connecting Wheeling to the Ohio River. Stop into the Wheeling Artisan Center—it’s in a building that dates to the late 1800s and now holds a variety of retail shops, galleries, and event spaces. With each mile, you’ll traverse the city, learn the local lore, and see Wheeling in a brand new light.
You can learn more about the history of Wheeling and its revitalization when you visit Wheeling Heritage online at wheelingheritage.org or @wheelingheritage on Facebook.
STATE PARK TRAMS
Since 1971, the tram at Pipestem Resort State Park has been carrying visitors up and down the Bluestone Gorge for a scenic view you won’t find anywhere else in the park. As time passed, however, and the companies that supplied parts went out of business, the tram became harder and harder to maintain. When the last rider stepped out of the gondola at the end of the 2023 season, the beloved Pipestem aerial tram was officially closed.
Luckily, it didn’t stay closed for long. In September 2025, visitors to the park were once again welcomed into the loving embrace of the gorge and West Virginia’s wild charm. As the aerial tram’s gondolas make their gradual 3,000-foot descent, keep your eyes open and your head on a swivel. It only takes six minutes to make it to the bottom, and you’ll want to soak up every second of that unparalleled landscape.
The tram is fully ADA accessible, with freight cars for recreation equipment like bikes or kayaks, so everyone can be a part of the fun. And with weather safety advancements, such as improved wind stability up to 54 mph, there are even more opportunities than before to make the journey throughout the season.
One warning: When you see the views from the bottom, there’s a chance you won’t want to leave. Thankfully, Mountain Creek Lodge lets you extend your stay. Open May through October and accessible only by the tram, you can book one of 30 rooms and gaze in awe at the Bluestone River to your heart’s content. wvstateparks.com/pipestem-state-park
SEARCHING FOR ELK
For over a decade, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources’ Elk Restoration Project has been working to return elk to the Mountain State after overhunting and habitat loss led to the species’ extirpation from the state in the late 1800s. Now, with a large herd thriving at Tomblin Wildlife Management Area (WMA), the WVDNR offers visitors a chance to see the animals in action. The four-hour tour is a guided trek into the WMA for a closer look at the herd and the work being done to grow the population. A recently completed viewing platform is also available on-site for a different perspective. wvdnr.gov
READ MORE ARTICLES FROM WV LIVING’S SUMMER 2026 ISSUE
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