Road Trip from Beckley to Charleston: Must-Visit Places
If you’re looking to explore the beauty of West Virginia, a road trip from Beckley to Charleston is a perfect way to begin your journey. This route includes scenic views, iconic landmarks, and historical places that will surely make your trip worthwhile.
Did you know that West Virginia is home to more than 40 state parks and forests? That means there’s plenty of natural beauty waiting to be explored on your road trip from Beckley to Charleston.
Halfway along the Beckley to Charleston route is the town of Smithers, WV. This small town is home to less than a thousand residents and is relatively unknown to many tourists. However, it’s worth a stop to explore the town and take in its quaint charm.
The Beckley to Charleston route spans around 60 miles and takes approximately an hour to complete. But with so many places to explore along the way, you’ll want to give yourself plenty of time to make the most of your journey.
Here are the top five places you cannot miss on your road trip from Beckley to Charleston:
- Tamarack Tamarack is a must-visit for art lovers and anyone who enjoys shopping for handmade crafts. This large arts and crafts center is a shopping hub that showcases local artisans and their work. You can also enjoy a meal at the in-house restaurant that serves authentic West Virginia cuisine.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Don’t miss the unique, locally-made jewelry and pottery pieces available for purchase at Tamarack.
- New River Gorge National Park New River Gorge is a national park located in southern West Virginia and features the New River Gorge Bridge. The park covers more than 70,000 acres and offers breathtaking views of the New River, which flows through the Appalachian Mountains. You’ll also have plenty of opportunities for hiking and rock climbing.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Take a guided whitewater rafting tour down the New River for a thrilling adventure.
- Summersville Lake Summersville Lake is the largest lake in West Virginia and offers ample recreational opportunities such as fishing, swimming, and boating. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and scenic views, making it a serene spot for a picnic or an afternoon of relaxation.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Head to Battle Run Beach at the lake for a refreshing swim on a hot summer day.
- Kanawha State Forest Kanawha State Forest, located just a few miles from downtown Charleston, is a nature lover’s paradise. The park spans more than 9,000 acres and features hiking and mountain biking trails with stunning views of the forest. In the winter, you can even go sledding or cross-country skiing.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Drive through the scenic overlook at Coonskin Park within the Kanawha State Forest for a panoramic view of the Kanawha River.
- State Capitol Complex No trip to Charleston would be complete without a visit to the State Capitol Complex. The Capitol Building itself is an architectural masterpiece and houses the West Virginia State Senate and House of Delegates. You can take a guided tour of the building and learn about West Virginia’s rich history.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Take a stroll through the Capitol Market, located across the street from the Capitol Building, for local food and crafts.
Overall, a road trip from Beckley to Charleston is one of the best ways to experience the beauty and history of West Virginia. With so many places to explore, be sure to give yourself ample time to take in all that this scenic route has to offer.