Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Charleston, West Virginia and Valdosta, Georgia
Charleston, West Virginia and Valdosta, Georgia are two charming cities that have both historical and modern vibes. A road trip from Charleston to Valdosta, or vice versa, can provide ample opportunities to explore the scenic beauty of the Appalachians, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the southern lowlands. Along the way, the Ridgeway, SC, which is the halfway point of the journey, offers an excellent break for rest, refuel, and shopping at a charming small-town.
Top Five Things to Do
Visit the Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park
The Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park is located in Parkersburg, West Virginia, and is an excellent place to learn about the history of the Blennerhassett family, who once lived on the island, and also to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Ohio River. Visitors can take a tour of Blennerhassett Mansion, ride a horse-drawn wagon, bike or hike, and enjoy a picnic or a paddleboat ride.
Interesting fact: The mansion on Blennerhassett Island, built by Harman Blennerhassett in 1804, was destroyed by fire in 1811, and the current mansion is a replica built in the 1980s.
Walk on the Hatfield and McCoy Trail System
The Hatfield and McCoy Trail System is a vast network of off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails that spans more than 700 miles through nine counties of West Virginia. The trails offer a unique way to explore the mountains and forests while enjoying the thrill of riding an ATV, dirt bike, or side-by-side. However, non-motorized visitors can also walk, hike, or mountain bike on many sections of the trails.
Interesting fact: The Hatfield and McCoy feud, which inspired the trail system's name, was a violent conflict that lasted from the 1860s to the 1890s and involved two rival families living in the Appalachians.
Visit the Billy Graham Library
The Billy Graham Library is located in Charlotte, North Carolina, and is a tribute to the life and ministry of the renowned evangelist Billy Graham. The library features exhibits, multimedia displays, and memorabilia that highlight Graham's legacy and teachings. Visitors can also wander through the beautiful garden and enjoy a meal at the library's restaurant.
Interesting fact: Billy Graham was born and grew up in Charlotte, and he started his ministry in 1947 with a series of tent revival meetings in Los Angeles.
Explore the Okefenokee Swamp
The Okefenokee Swamp is a vast wilderness area located in southern Georgia, near the town of Waycross. The swamp covers more than 700 square miles and is home to an abundance of wildlife, including alligators, black bears, and endangered species such as the red-cockaded woodpecker and the indigo snake. Visitors can take a guided boat tour, rent a canoe or kayak, or hike on the trails.
Interesting fact: The Okefenokee Swamp is the largest blackwater swamp in North America, and its waters are highly acidic and dark due to the presence of tannins from the decaying plant material.
Stroll through the historic district of Savannah
Savannah, Georgia, is a beautiful city with a rich history and charming architecture. The historic district of Savannah comprises 22 squares, each with its unique beauty and character. Visitors can stroll through the streets and admire the Georgian, Greek Revival, and Gothic architectural styles, stop by the Mercer Williams House Museum, or take a ghost tour at night.
Interesting fact: Savannah is one of the oldest cities in the United States, founded in 1733 by General James Oglethorpe as a British colony.
Conclusion
The road trip from Charleston, West Virginia, to Valdosta, Georgia, or the other way around, can take around 10 hours of driving time, but it provides an excellent opportunity to explore beautiful places and learn about diverse cultures along the way. From the Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park in West Virginia to the historic district of Savannah in Georgia, the trip offers a mix of outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences. Most importantly, the Ridgeway, SC, which is the halfway point of the journey, can offer a charming break for shopping and sightseeing. So, pack your bags, buckle up, and hit the road for a memorable journey!