A Beautiful Road Trip from Belington, West Virginia to Waynesboro, Virginia
Looking for a scenic drive in West Virginia? Or perhaps, a long road trip from the mountains to the Shenandoah Valley. Well, look no further! Driving from Belington, West Virginia to Waynesboro, Virginia has become a popular outing for people looking to unwind and appreciate nature's beauty. No matter the reason for your drive, the route offers plenty of inspiration to ensure you have a memorable trip.
From winding roads to lush landscapes, this 150-mile road trip promises to impress even the most seasoned travelers. In this blog post, we'll uncover some of the top places to see when driving from Belington, West Virginia to Waynesboro, Virginia. Here we go!
1. Elkins, West Virginia
Our first stop is Elkins, West Virginia. Located in the heart of the Monongahela National Forest, Elkins offers a chance to see the natural beauty of West Virginia up close. The small town features a scenic train ride from the Elkins Depot which has been operational since the early 20th century.
Other must-visit places in Elkins include the August Heritage Center, where you can learn about West Virginia's rich history and cultural significance. The Gandy Dancer Theatre & Conference Center is also a delightful spot for various cultural activities like musical theatre productions, concerts, and shows. Elkins makes for an excellent starting point of your road trip.
2. Seneca Rocks, West Virginia
After exploring Elkins, heading down U.S. Route 33 leads you to the next suggested stop, Seneca Rocks, West Virginia. If you're into rock climbing, you'll love this iconic peak, which offers a 900ft climb. Even if you're not into the extreme sport, Seneca Rocks' views are breathtaking.
The Seneca Rocks Discovery Center has plenty of exhibits and interpretive programs, which will take you through the history and geology of the area. It's also the perfect spot for picnic lunch while taking in the serene surroundings.
3. Shenandoah Valley National Park, Virginia
A few hours drive from Seneca Rocks, lies the magnificent Shenandoah Valley National Park. Spanning over 200,000 acres, Shenandoah has become a go-to spot for hiking, camping, and observing the natural beauty that will take your breath away. Its proximity to various cities in Virginia such as Charlottesville, Harrisonburg, and Richmond has made it an easily accessible destination for many.
Some must-do hikes in Shenandoah include the Old Rag Summit Trail, Bearfence Mountain Trail, and Mary's Rock Summit Trail. Don't forget to snap a picture at the iconic Skyline Drive to capture the park's beauty.
4. Bluestone National Scenic River, West Virginia
If you're an angler, this is the spot for you! The Bluestone National Scenic River offers a chance to fish for smallmouth bass, catfish, and walleye as you camp out and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
In addition to fishing, Bluestone also offers opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and even rock climbing. You can also take in the serene surroundings, hike at the nearby Pipestem Resort State Park, or stroll down the Greenbrier River Trail.
5. Monticello, Virginia
Our final stop is Monticello, the charming estate of America's third president, Thomas Jefferson. Monticello offers rare insights into Jefferson's character, lifestyle, choices, and personal principles. A guided tour of the historic Monticello house takes you through the infamous dome room, wine cellar, the bedroom where Jefferson died, and many other fascinating spots.
Enjoy the beautiful grounds, where you can uncover the natural environments that Thomas Jefferson so passionately preserved. The Visitor Center has an exhibit gallery with multimedia exhibits and artifacts to take you through the history of Monticello.
Conclusion
There you have it, our top five must-see locations to explore on the road trip from Belington, West Virginia, to Waynesboro, Virginia. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or a history buff, there's something along the way that caters to every preference. Enjoy the journey; take in the sights, sounds, and scents that come with this scenic drive, and make memories that will last a lifetime.