Did you know that science and history have both shown that sunlight and fresh air can neutralize most germs and some viruses? That’s right! So pull back your curtains, open your windows, and head outside to enjoy the healing power of some good, old-fashioned fresh air and sunshine–West Virginia has plenty of both to go around!
Not sure where to go? We’ve got you covered. Here are 13 general suggestions with specific options for each, totaling over 100 awesome outdoor destinations around West Virginia.
- A Waterfall
Nicolas Raymond/Flickr You can never go wrong with a waterfall hike! Check this list of 7 waterfalls for inspiration.
- A Boardwalk
Forest Wander/Wikimedia West Virginia’s boardwalks lead through stunning countryside and past beautiful mountain views. Here are 9 boardwalks to investigate, and every single one is worth a trip!
- An Overlook
Mike/Flickr There is no shortage of stunning vistas in our state, and many of them are quite accessible. Here are 14 overlooks to consider.
- A Ghost Town
Sirloin OfBeef/Flickr With West Virginia’s rich mining heritage, you can bet we have our share of abandoned mining towns! Visit one of these 7 ghost towns to take a step back in time.
- A Historic District
Acroterion/Wikipedia For another type of step back in time, consider taking a walking tour of a historic district! There’s so much history in our area; if you’re interested in learning more, these 7 historic districts are a great way to start.
- A State Park
a m lewis/Flickr OF COURSE a state park is a good choice for some outdoor rejuvenation! Here are 20 state parks that are full of fun outdoor activities.
- A State Forest
Mike Norton/Flickr In addition to state parks, we have state forests! Check out these 6 state forests for a refreshing nature experience.
- A Ruin
Brian Masney/Wikipedia Because of our rich history as a state, we have plenty of hikes that lead to ruins. Have you hiked to any of these 5 ruins before?
- A River
xEmmyBearx/Flickr Let’s not forget rivers! There’s nothing quite like strolling along a river, listening to the rush of the water or perching on the rocks along the bank, watching the reflection of the sky and the opposite bank. Here are a few or 15 rivers to get you started!
- A Fishing Hole
Brian M Powell/Wikipedia Along those same lines, what’s a better way to catch some fresh air and sunshine than by doing a little fishing? Here are 12 fishing holes to try. Remember, kids fish free but adults need a license.
- A Playground
City of Huntington, WV/Facebook Of course, what outdoor list would be complete without a few city parks? Grab the kids and head out to play at your local playground or one of these 7 playgrounds around the state.
- A Garden
WVU Core Arboretum/Facebook This is the perfect time of year to catch some of the season’s first blooms! Try one of these 6 gardens for a relaxing, refreshing outing.
What do you think, will you be heading outside this week to soak up some sun? I know I will! Where will you go?
Nicolas Raymond/Flickr
You can never go wrong with a waterfall hike! Check this list of 7 waterfalls for inspiration.
Forest Wander/Wikimedia
West Virginia’s boardwalks lead through stunning countryside and past beautiful mountain views. Here are 9 boardwalks to investigate, and every single one is worth a trip!
Mike/Flickr
There is no shortage of stunning vistas in our state, and many of them are quite accessible. Here are 14 overlooks to consider.
Sirloin OfBeef/Flickr
With West Virginia’s rich mining heritage, you can bet we have our share of abandoned mining towns! Visit one of these 7 ghost towns to take a step back in time.
Acroterion/Wikipedia
For another type of step back in time, consider taking a walking tour of a historic district! There’s so much history in our area; if you’re interested in learning more, these 7 historic districts are a great way to start.
a m lewis/Flickr
OF COURSE a state park is a good choice for some outdoor rejuvenation! Here are 20 state parks that are full of fun outdoor activities.
Mike Norton/Flickr
In addition to state parks, we have state forests! Check out these 6 state forests for a refreshing nature experience.
Brian Masney/Wikipedia
Because of our rich history as a state, we have plenty of hikes that lead to ruins. Have you hiked to any of these 5 ruins before?
xEmmyBearx/Flickr
Let’s not forget rivers! There’s nothing quite like strolling along a river, listening to the rush of the water or perching on the rocks along the bank, watching the reflection of the sky and the opposite bank. Here are a few or 15 rivers to get you started!
Brian M Powell/Wikipedia
Along those same lines, what’s a better way to catch some fresh air and sunshine than by doing a little fishing? Here are 12 fishing holes to try. Remember, kids fish free but adults need a license.
City of Huntington, WV/Facebook
Of course, what outdoor list would be complete without a few city parks? Grab the kids and head out to play at your local playground or one of these 7 playgrounds around the state.
WVU Core Arboretum/Facebook
This is the perfect time of year to catch some of the season’s first blooms! Try one of these 6 gardens for a relaxing, refreshing outing.
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