Why Southern West Virginia, Almost Heaven, is One of the Hottest Summer Destinations
West Virginia, affectionately known as Almost Heaven, captured national attention around the new year with the debut of the United States' newest national park and one of the most successful vaccine rollouts. This timing positioned it perfectly for post-pandemic travel cravings.
After months of restrictions, travelers sought open spaces for safe exploration and a nostalgic return to normalcy. West Virginia offers vast, ancient landscapes where country roads lead to timeless beauty, even for first-time visitors.
As summer arrives, bringing lush forests, vibrant wildflowers, and flowing waterfalls, the appeal intensifies—especially in Southern West Virginia. This region blends the rugged Allegheny Ridge wilderness, thrilling adventures on the Bluestone, Gauley, and New Rivers, and rich southern mountain heritage.
Discover top summer escapes in Southern West Virginia below: three standout spots or one epic itinerary for extended stays.
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Satisfy your sense of ancient wonder at the New River, one of the world's oldest rivers—potentially second oldest globally and North America's eldest. Carving through primordial landscapes, it anchors West Virginia's newest national park, designated in December 2020.
Spanning about 70,000 acres of Appalachian wilderness, the park draws rafters, hikers, mountain bikers, and climbers. The New River Gorge Bridge, completed in 1977, remains the world's longest single-span steel arch bridge and the U.S.'s third-highest. View it from afar for photos or join a guided Bridge Walk on the catwalk beneath for stunning vistas and historical insights over a mile-long span.
Base yourself at Adventures on the Gorge, a resort in the park's heart offering lodgings from campgrounds to cabins, plus ziplines, canopy tours, rentals, guides, and easy access to whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking, climbing, and more.
Dine al fresco at Smokey's, where river fog meets forested views—perfect for breakfast or BBQ dinner.
For panoramic sights, visit Grandview: From 1,400 feet, see seven miles of the New River, Quinnimont town, and seasonal Catawba rhododendron blooms (May-July). Enjoy trails, ranger programs, picnics, and Theatre West Virginia's outdoor summer performances.
Nearby in Raleigh County, explore Tamarack: a premier showcase for West Virginia artists, artisans, and producers. Jury-selected, authentic local crafts fill this gallery-market-cafe-venue hybrid.
Greenbrier Valley
Immerse in natural beauty at The Greenbrier Valley, famed for mineral springs that inspired The Greenbrier resort nearly 250 years ago. Today, its spa features healing spring treatments, attracting U.S. presidents and royalty.
Across 11,000 acres, discover the historic landmark, including its secret Cold War bunker. Nearby, Lewisburg buzzes with creativity in preserved 18th-20th century buildings housing galleries, eateries, and shops.
Highlights include Carnegie Hall (one of four Carnegie-funded U.S. music halls) and Greenbrier Valley Theatre, resuming productions in June—check here for updates. The Greenbrier River Trail offers scenic biking, hiking, and riding along a free-flowing river.
Summersville
Beyond rivers, Summersville Lake—West Virginia's largest with 2,800 acres and 60 shoreline miles—shines with crystal-clear waters dubbed the "Little Bahamas of the East." Ideal for swimming, boating, and diving with shops, gear, and sites featuring overhangs, drop-offs, and swim-throughs.
Tour the state's only working lighthouse for elevated views from its 122-step observation deck.
Cap visits at Kirkwood Winery & Isaiah Morgan Distillery, home to U.S.'s smallest licensed distillery specializing in whiskey and sweet wines.
Southern West Virginia delivers unique thrills: ancient rivers from iconic bridges, cultural gems, and pristine waters—the perfect summer haven in Almost Heaven.
