Your Ultimate Guide To Spring Attractions And Activities In West Virginia
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Jasmine Vieau
Author
Welcome to your ultimate guide to spring attractions and activities in WV! As the snow melts away, the Mountain State springs to life with enchanting experiences for adventurers to explore. From vibrant flower blooms to scenic hikes and charming small towns, West Virginia offers something for everyone. Join me on a journey through the hills and valleys of this picturesque state as I uncover the top destinations and activities that capture the essence of springtime. Whether you’re a nature lover, outdoor adventurer, or history buff, let’s check out the best things to do in West Virginia in spring.
Flower Blooms In West Virginia
Experience West Virginia’s spring flower blooms at Core Arboretum and The Greenbrier. These scenic spots showcase a stunning array of native and cultivated flowers, offering a delightful retreat amidst the beauty of the season.
1. Core Arboretum
Core Arboretum, Monongahela Blvd, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA
West Virginia University’s Core Arboretum, situated in Morgantown, is a cherished destination, particularly during the spring months. Spanning 91 acres along the Monongahela River, it provides a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
This arboretum boasts a diverse collection of native Appalachian plants, drawing nature enthusiasts and botany aficionados alike. As spring unfolds, the landscape bursts into color with the blooming of wildflowers such as trilliums, Virginia bluebells, and bloodroot.
Visitors are invited to explore the arboretum's extensive network of trails, which meander through wooded areas, meadows, and along the riverbank. With its natural beauty and serene atmosphere, the Core Arboretum is a great place to connect with nature and a great option if you're looking for family things to do in West Virginia in spring.
Helpful Tip: Don't miss the Annual Spring Flower Festival and Spring Wildflower Walks in April.
2. The Greenbrier
The Greenbrier, 101 W Main St, White Sulphur Springs, WV 24986, USA
Are you looking for romantic things to do in West Virginia in spring? The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs is an exceptional destination to experience the beauty of spring flower blooms and indulge in romantic activities.
The resort's meticulously maintained gardens, including those designed by renowned decorator Dorothy Draper, showcase a stunning array of flowers in full bloom. Guests can wander through the gardens, admiring the vibrant tulips, daffodils, azaleas, and other spring blooms that adorn the landscape.
The Greenbrier offers romantic experiences amidst its picturesque surroundings, including intimate dinners at elegant restaurants and couples' spa treatments. Outdoor activities like horseback riding, carriage rides, and scenic walks allow couples to embrace the spring season together.
Overall, The Greenbrier offers a perfect blend of springtime floral splendor and romantic experiences, making it an ideal destination for couples seeking a memorable getaway in West Virginia during the spring months.
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Botanical Gardens In West Virginia
Discover West Virginia’s botanical wonders at West Virginia Botanic Garden and the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area. These sites showcase diverse landscapes, from cultivated gardens to unique bog ecosystems. Whether you’re interested in manicured blooms or native flora, both destinations offer engaging outdoor activities.
3. West Virginia Botanic Garden
West Virginia Botanic Garden, 1061 Tyrone Rd, Morgantown, WV 26508, USA
West Virginia Botanic Garden, located in Morgantown, is a beautiful spot to visit in spring. The Botanic Garden offers a variety of unique outdoor experiences, including woodland trails, wetlands, and gardens. Visitors can explore over four miles of trails that showcase the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.
However, it is the Garden's flower displays that are particularly breathtaking during the spring season. With daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, and more - the Garden is a true feast for the eyes. Visitors can also find unique displays of azaleas, rhododendrons, and other native wildflowers.
The Botanic Garden also offers educational programs and events for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a flower lover or simply seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, the West Virginia Botanic Garden is a must-visit spot for free things to do in West Virginia in spring.
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4. Cranberry Glades Botanical Area
Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, Hillsboro, WV 24946, USA
Cranberry Glades Botanical Area is a picturesque location in West Virginia, and it's a destination you shouldn't miss in the spring. This area is a part of the Monongahela National Forest, offering a unique and beautiful ecosystem that can't be found anywhere else. Cranberry Glades is known for its vast fields of cranberry bogs, home to several rare plant and animal species.
In the spring, the botanical area is a paradise for nature lovers, as the landscape comes alive with vibrant wildflowers, including the rare pink lady slipper orchid. The area is also home to several species of migratory birds that can be spotted during this time of year. Overall, Cranberry Glades Botanical Area's unique ecosystem, hiking trails, rare plant and animal species, and beautiful landscape make it a must-visit destination for any nature lover.
Parks To Visit In West Virginia This Spring
Experience the beauty of spring at Blackwater Falls, Watoga, and Canaan Valley Resort Parks in West Virginia. Enjoy stunning waterfalls, expansive wilderness, and scenic landscapes for outdoor adventures and peaceful relaxation.
5. Blackwater Falls State Park
Blackwater Falls State Park, 1584 Blackwater Lodge Rd, Davis, WV 26260, USA
Blackwater Falls State Park, situated in Davis, West Virginia, is a captivating destination, especially during the spring season. Renowned for its namesake waterfall, which tumbles over dark-colored sandstone, the park offers a dramatic and picturesque landscape. In spring, the park's forests burst with new life as vibrant greenery blankets the surroundings, creating a lush and inviting atmosphere.
One of the highlights of visiting Blackwater Falls State Park in spring is hiking along the Rhododendron Trail. This trail winds through the woods and alongside streams, providing stunning views of blooming rhododendrons and other native flora.
Additionally, Blackwater Falls State Park offers various outdoor adventures such as picnicking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also explore other nearby attractions, including the scenic Blackwater Canyon and the rugged beauty of the Canaan Valley.
6. Watoga State Park
Watoga State Park, 4800 Watoga Park Rd, Marlinton, WV 24954, USA
Watoga State Park, nestled near Hillsboro, stands as the state's largest state park, offering an array of attractions, particularly beautiful during spring. With its vast acreage, the park invites visitors to explore its extensive trail system, which meanders through lush forests and along serene streams.
Spring brings a burst of color to Watoga as wildflowers blanket the landscape, creating a picturesque scene for hikers. The park's Brooks Memorial Arboretum showcases native flora in full bloom - while its tranquil lakes provide opportunities for fishing and boating. With its diverse ecosystems and recreational activities, Watoga State Park is ideal for outdoor recreation and nature appreciation.
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7. Canaan Valley Resort State Park
Canaan Valley Resort State Park, 230 Main Lodge Rd, Davis, WV 26260, USA
Canaan Valley Resort State Park is a must-visit destination in the Allegheny Mountains, known for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor recreational activities. Spring is an especially beautiful time to visit the park, as visitors are treated to an eye-catching display of wildflowers. The park's trails are adorned with a variety of stunning flowers, such as trillium, bloodroot, and Virginia bluebells, among others. Whether you choose to take a leisurely stroll along the trails or join a guided tour, you'll be able to appreciate the beauty of these natural wonders.
Apart from the magnificent flowers, Canaan Valley Resort State Park also offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. In addition, the park features fantastic amenities such as cozy cabins, campgrounds, a golf course, and a ski resort during the winter months. Visitors can relax and take in the awe-inspiring mountain views while enjoying a picnic. Overall, Canaan Valley Resort State Park is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of spring flowers combined with limitless outdoor fun.
Spring Hikes In West Virginia
Explore captivating spring hikes in WV at Falls of Hills Creek, Bear Rocks, and Endless Wall trails. These trails boast breathtaking scenery and natural wonders.
8. Falls of Hills Creek Trail
Falls of Hills Creek, Hill Creek Falls Rd, Hillsboro, WV 24946, USA
The Falls of Hills Creek Trail is a scenic hiking trail located in the Cranberry Wilderness of Monongahela National Forest, near Hillsboro. This popular trail is renowned for its stunning series of waterfalls.
The trail is considered moderate in difficulty, with some steep sections and rocky terrain. Along the way, hikers are treated to three impressive waterfalls: the Lower Falls, the Middle Falls, and the Upper Falls. Each waterfall is unique in its own right, with cascading streams of water plunging into pools below, surrounded by lush vegetation and moss-covered rocks.
The Falls of Hills Creek Trail is a sight to see in the springtime when wildflowers bloom along the trail, adding vibrant colors to the already picturesque landscape. Visitors can expect to see a variety of native flora, including trilliums, violets, and ferns, creating a scenic backdrop for their hike.
The Falls of Hills Creek Trail offers a rewarding outdoor adventure for hikers of all skill levels, with its captivating waterfalls, lush forest scenery, and abundant spring wildflowers.
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9. Bear Rocks Trail
Bear Rocks Trail, 4944 Brushy Ridge Rd, Maysville, WV 26833, USA
Dolly Sods Wilderness, located within Monongahela National Forest, is a unique and rugged landscape characterized by its high-altitude plateau, rocky plains, and heath barrens.
One of the best trails for a springtime hike in Dolly Sods Wilderness is the Bear Rocks Trail. This scenic easy to moderate trail offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a favorite among hikers.
The trail winds through open meadows, rocky outcrops, and patches of stunted trees, providing opportunities to encounter spring wildflowers such as rhododendrons, mountain laurels, and azaleas. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the peaceful serenity of the wilderness and take in the breathtaking vistas from various overlooks along the trail.
10. Endless Wall Trail
Endless Wall Trail, Edmond, WV 25837, USA
The Endless Wall Trail in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is renowned for its epic views, unique rock formations, and lush foliage, making it an excellent trail to hike in the springtime.
Stretching approximately 2.4 miles along the rim of the gorge, the Endless Wall Trail offers hikers sweeping vistas of the New River Gorge and its rugged terrain. In the spring, the surrounding forest comes alive with vibrant greenery and colorful wildflowers, creating a picturesque backdrop for the hike.
One of the highlights of the trail is the iconic Diamond Point overlook, which provides panoramic views of the river below and the expansive gorge. Additionally, hikers can marvel at the towering sandstone cliffs and rock formations that line the trail, including the famous "Endless Wall," after which the trail is named.
Spring Picnic Spots In West Virginia
Discover picturesque picnic spots at Oglebay Park and Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, perfect for enjoying a springtime outdoor meal.
11. Oglebay Park
Oglebay Park Wheeling, WV, 465 Lodge Dr, Wheeling, WV 26003, USA
Oglebay Park, spanning 1700 acres in Wheeling, West Virginia, is a nature haven with magnificent gardens, expansive golf courses, and recreational activities. Among its highlights are meticulously maintained gardens, including a rose garden, sensory garden, and butterfly garden.
For a quintessential spring experience, indulge in a picnic amidst the park's picturesque landscapes. With numerous scenic spots scattered throughout, from lush gardens to tranquil lakeshores, there's no shortage of idyllic settings to set up a picnic.
Beyond picnicking, Oglebay Park offers a range of activities to enhance your visit, such as strolling through blooming gardens, golfing, or exploring hiking trails. Families can also enjoy the zoo, swimming pool, and miniature golf course. Oglebay Park promises a delightful springtime escape full of West Virginia spring activities!
12. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, 171 Shoreline Dr, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425, USA
Nestled at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers in West Virginia, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is an idyllic location for a spring picnic. The park's historic Lower Town area, renowned for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings, offers a plethora of enchanting picnic spots. You can choose to relax along the riverbanks or savor breathtaking panoramic views from a scenic overlook. Either way, you can spread out a blanket, unpack your picnic basket, and relish your meal while taking in the serene views of the rivers and surrounding mountains.
For those seeking a more adventurous outdoor dining experience, the park boasts several hiking trails that lead to secluded picnic areas and scenic overlooks. With each step, you'll encounter breathtaking vistas that will leave you in awe. If you don't feel like hiking, don't worry! There's a designated picnic area adjacent to the Visitor Center parking lot for a more relaxed picnic experience.
Are you looking for more things to do in WV? Well – West Virginia is a state that truly lives up to its nickname of “Almost Heaven.” From the adrenaline rush of whitewater rafting on the Gauley and New Rivers to the stunning beauty of Seneca Rocks and the New River Gorge Bridge, the state offers an unparalleled outdoor experience on the East Coast of America. The state’s cities, such as Charleston and Huntington, offer a glimpse into the state’s rich history and culture, while places like Lewisburg provide a small-town charm that is hard to resist. Visitors can explore fascinating caverns, take scenic train rides, go kayaking, and climb rocks.
Moreover, year-round campsites and state parks like Berkeley Springs State Park, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, and Babcock State Park offer a perfect blend of history and nature. The state’s coal mines and the West Virginia State Museum provide a glimpse into the state’s mining history. All in all, West Virginia is a gem of the Southern United States that offers an unforgettable experience for those who are willing to explore it!
What are your favorite spots to visit in WV? Let me know – I’d love to hear your thoughts! Are you looking for even more places to check out? These 17 Unique Day Trips In West Virginia Are A Must-Do!
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