The Best Places to See When Driving from Belpre, Ohio to Beckley, West Virginia

If you're planning a road trip from Belpre, Ohio to Beckley, West Virginia, you're in for a treat. The drive is scenic, and there are plenty of charming small towns and stunning natural wonders to explore along the way. To make the most of your journey, we've put together a list of the top places to see.

Grab your camera, fill up your gas tank, and get ready to hit the road!

Natural Wonders

1. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

One of the top destinations in West Virginia is New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. With over 70,000 acres of protected land, the park boasts some of the best hiking, fishing, and white-water rafting in the state. Be sure to snap a photo of the stunning New River Gorge Bridge, located 876 feet above the river.

2. Hocking Hills State Park

Located just an hour from Belpre in Logan, Ohio, Hocking Hills State Park is a must-see destination. The park is home to stunning waterfalls, caves, and rock formations, including the famous Old Man's Cave. With plenty of hiking trails and picnic areas, it's a perfect spot for a day trip.

3. Cranberry Glades Botanical Area

Located in the Monongahela National Forest, the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area is a unique ecosystem home to plants and animals more commonly found in Canada. The boardwalk trail through the wetland area offers visitors a chance to see rare orchids and pitcher plants.

Historical Sites

4. Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park

Located just across the Ohio River in Parkersburg, West Virginia, Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park is a step back in time. The island was once home to a grand mansion that was destroyed in a fire, but several outbuildings and gardens have been restored to their former glory. Visitors can take a paddlewheel boat ride to the island and tour the grounds.

5. Tamarack: The Best of West Virginia

Tamarack, located just off the highway in Beckley, is a one-stop-shop for all things West Virginia. The sprawling complex houses a gift shop, art gallery, and restaurant showcasing local foods. Visitors can also watch craftspeople at work, creating hand-blown glass, pottery, and more.

Small Town Charm

6. Athens, Ohio

Located just 30 minutes from Belpre, Athens is a charming college town with lots to offer. The downtown area is packed with boutiques and restaurants, and Ohio University's campus is worth exploring. Don't miss the chance to visit the Kennedy Museum of Art or take a hike on the nearby Strouds Run State Park trails.

7. Lewisburg, West Virginia

Lewisburg is a quaint town just a short drive from Beckley. It's home to a variety of art galleries, antique shops, and restaurants. The town is also steeped in Civil War history and boasts several preserved buildings and battlefields.

Conclusion

Whether you're a lover of nature, architecture, or small-town charm, there's something for everyone on the drive from Belpre, Ohio to Beckley, West Virginia. With so many interesting places to stop along the way, it's worth taking your time to see them all. Happy travels!