Welcome to Pocahontas County, West Virginia – a hidden gem in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. This travel guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the top attractions, food scene, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, and more in this beautiful region.
Top Attractions
Snowshoe Mountain Resort
Experience some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the region at Snowshoe Mountain Resort, which boasts 60 trails and 14 lifts across 257 acres of skiable terrain.
Cass Scenic Railroad State Park
Take a scenic train ride through the mountains and learn about the history of the logging industry in the area at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park.
Green Bank Observatory
Explore the mysteries of the universe at the Green Bank Observatory, home to the world’s largest fully steerable radio telescope.
Hidden Gems
Seneca Rocks
Take a hike to the top of Seneca Rocks for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Highland Scenic Highway
Take a scenic drive along the Highland Scenic Highway, which offers stunning views of the fall foliage and the area’s wildlife.
Beartown State Park
Explore the unique rock formations and hiking trails at Beartown State Park, which is home to over 100 acres of natural beauty.
Food Scene
The Fiddlehead Restaurant and Bar
Enjoy delicious farm-to-table cuisine at The Fiddlehead Restaurant and Bar, which sources its ingredients from local farmers and producers.
Route 66 Restaurant
Get a taste of classic American diner fare at Route 66 Restaurant, which serves up burgers, fries, and milkshakes.
Brewstel
Try some local craft beer and enjoy live music at Brewstel, a unique brewery and hostel in downtown Elkins.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Camping
Save money on accommodations by camping at one of the many campsites in the area, which offer stunning views and easy access to outdoor activities.
Free Attractions
Take advantage of the many free attractions in the area, such as hiking trails, scenic drives, and historical landmarks.
Local Markets
Save money on food by shopping at local farmers’ markets and grocery stores, which offer fresh and affordable produce.
Outdoor Adventures
Whitewater Rafting
Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Greenbrier River, which offers Class I-III rapids for all skill levels.
Hiking
Explore the area’s many hiking trails, which range from easy strolls to challenging climbs, and offer stunning views of the mountains and valleys.
Fishing
Cast your line in one of the area’s many rivers and streams, which are home to a variety of fish species, including trout and bass.
Historical Landmarks
Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park
Learn about the Civil War history of the area at Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park, which was the site of a major battle in 1863.
Pocahontas County Opera House
Enjoy a show at the historic Pocahontas County Opera House, which has been a cultural hub for the community since 1910.
Pocahontas County Historic Landmarks Commission
Take a walking tour of historic buildings and landmarks in downtown Marlinton, led by the knowledgeable volunteers of the Pocahontas County Historic Landmarks Commission.
Family-Friendly Activities
Mountain Rail Adventures
Ride the rails on a scenic train ride with Mountain Rail Adventures, which offers a variety of family-friendly excursions throughout the year.
Watoga State Park
Explore the great outdoors with the whole family at Watoga State Park, which offers hiking, swimming, fishing, and more.
The Green Bank Science Center
Learn about science and technology at the Green Bank Science Center, which offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for all ages.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Elk River Touring Center
Experience the beauty of the area’s backcountry with a guided tour from The Elk River Touring Center, which offers hiking, biking, and paddling adventures.
The Artisan Shop at Cass
Discover the work of local artisans and craftspeople at The Artisan Shop at Cass, which features a variety of handmade goods and souvenirs.
The Bath House
Relax and rejuvenate at The Bath House, a natural hot spring spa located in the heart of the mountains.
Natural Wonders
The Cranberry Glades Botanical Area
Explore the unique ecosystem of The Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, which is home to a variety of rare plant and animal species.
The Falls of Hills Creek
Take a hike to The Falls of Hills Creek, a series of three waterfalls that cascade down a rocky gorge.
The Greenbrier River Trail
Take a leisurely bike ride or hike along The Greenbrier River Trail, which offers 78 miles of scenic beauty and wildlife.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Purple Fiddle
Enjoy live music and local craft beer at The Purple Fiddle, a popular music venue in downtown Thomas.
The Dirtbean Cafe and Bike Shop
Grab a coffee and browse the bike shop at The Dirtbean Cafe and Bike Shop, which also offers live music and events on weekends.
The Isaac Jackson Hotel
Enjoy a drink and some live music at The Isaac Jackson Hotel, a historic hotel and tavern in downtown Elkins.
Local Markets
The Pocahontas County Farmers Market
Shop for fresh produce, local crafts, and more at The Pocahontas County Farmers Market, which is open on Saturdays from May through October.
The Elkins Farmers Market
Discover the best of the local food scene at The Elkins Farmers Market, which offers fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and more on Saturdays from May through October.
The Marlinton Farmers Market
Stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables at The Marlinton Farmers Market, which is open on Saturdays from June through October.
Beaches and Mountains
The Monongahela National Forest
Explore the mountains and valleys of The Monongahela National Forest, which offers hiking, biking, and camping opportunities throughout the year.
The Greenbrier River
Relax on the banks of The Greenbrier River, which offers swimming, fishing, and tubing opportunities in the summer months.
The Cranberry River
Experience the thrill of whitewater kayaking on The Cranberry River, which offers Class III-IV rapids for experienced paddlers.
Cultural Immersion
The Augusta Heritage Center
Experience the rich cultural heritage of the region with classes and workshops in traditional music, dance, and crafts at The Augusta Heritage Center.
The Mountain Dance Trail
Learn the traditional dances of the region with The Mountain Dance Trail, which offers classes and events throughout the year.
The Allegheny Mountain Radio
Listen to local music and news with The Allegheny Mountain Radio, a community radio station that broadcasts throughout the region.
Art and Music Scene
The Highland Arts Unlimited
Experience the vibrant art scene of the region with exhibits and events at The Highland Arts Unlimited, a non-profit arts organization in Monterey, Virginia.
The Mountain Music Trail
Discover the best of the local music scene with The Mountain Music Trail, which offers live music events and festivals throughout the year.
The Pocahontas County Opera House
Enjoy a show at the historic Pocahontas County Opera House, which hosts a variety of musical performances and events throughout the year.
Walking Tours
The Greenbrier River Trail Towns
Take a walking tour of the charming towns along The Greenbrier River Trail, which offer historic architecture, unique shops, and local restaurants.
The Downtown
Pin on Genealogy from www.pinterest.ca
