The Best Places to See When Driving from Belington, West Virginia to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

People who love road trips and history, this post is for you! Driving from Belington, West Virginia to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania means you're in for a history lesson, scenic views, and nature experiences. This trip would take you about 3 hours and 45 minutes. However, if you want to explore the places we recommend in this post, it's worth stretching the drive into two days.

In this blog post, we've highlighted the top places to see when driving from Belington, West Virginia to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Starting from West Virginia, we've crafted a list of beautiful and historical sites you don't want to miss.

West Virginia to Maryland

Blackwater Falls State Park

Start your journey in West Virginia by exploring nature at Blackwater Falls State Park. The park is known for its stunning waterfall and towering trees. You could stop for a picnic, enjoy swimming in the lake, go hiking, or even bird-watching. Blackwater Falls State Park is a perfect place to be with family or alone with nature.

Antietam National Battlefield

As you cross over into Maryland, make sure to make a stop at the Antietam National Battlefield. It's a place where history comes to life. Antietam was one of the deadliest battles in the American Civil War. Over one day, about 23,000 soldiers were killed, wounded, or missing after the Confederate and Union armies clashed in fields and forests. You could tour the battlefield, visit the museum, or attend ranger programs to learn more about the unforgettable battle.

C & O Canal National Historical Park

Driving along the Potomac River, you'll find the C & O Canal National Historical Park. It spans over 184.5 miles and is known for its rich history and scenic beauty. You could hike, bike, paddle, or even go on a boat tour the canal. Along the canal, you could expect to see historical buildings, secret tunnels, or learn about the life of the canal workers who worked to keep commerce and transportation moving throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Maryland to Gettysburg

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

From the C & O Canal National Historical Park, a short drive will take you to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. The park is at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. Harpers Ferry has a rich history and is known for John Brown's raid, a critical event that took place in the lead-up to the American Civil War. You could take a ranger-guided tour, walk along the Appalachian Trail, or enjoy hiking through the woods while taking in the stunning views of the river.

Gettysburg National Military Park

Gettysburg National Military Park is the perfect destination for Americans who are passionate about the Civil War and its history. This park is known around the world for the epic battle that took place here in July 1863. You could take a tour of the battlefield, visit the Gettysburg Museum, or see the restored cyclorama painting of the battlefield. Gettysburg is also a lively town, which means you could enjoy local restaurants, breweries, or go shopping while you explore the historic town.

Conclusion

This road trip from Belington, West Virginia, to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, takes you through some of the most breathtaking views and historic sites. From Blackwater Falls State Park to Gettysburg National Military Park, we've highlighted a selection of destinations you could explore and enjoy. Of course, there are many more places to see and explore on your journey. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and explore the rich history and natural beauty of this great country.