West Virginia is the perfect state for anyone who loves being outdoors. There's a good reason why it's known as the "wild and wonderful" state. It would be impossible to put all the amazing natural wonders in West Virginia into one short list, but here are some highlights that you'll want to add to your outdoor bucket list.
1. Canaan Valley State Park
This is an amazing place to go horseback riding with a scenic wide-open landscape to enjoy.
Take a tour of Canaan Valley State Park in this video from LivingOurDreamNow:
2. Beartown State Park
The fantastic rock formations at Beartown State Park will inspire your imagination as you hike the many trails around Droop Mountain.
3. Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory
The Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory is an amazing location for watching the migration of hawks, eagles, falcons, and ospreys. It's located in Monroe County near Gap Mills and Union.
4. Sandstone Falls
The stunning waterfalls at Sandstone Falls bridge the gap between two islands.
5. Summersville Lake
This is a great place for swimming, sunbathing, boating, and scuba diving. You can even take free
sailing lessons on Summersville Lake.
6. The New River Gorge
West Virginia's Grand Canyon is perfect for hiking, whitewater rafting, and just enjoying the view. You can learn more about the New River Gorge in our featured article.
Take a peek at some of the incredible sights you'll discover at the New River Gorge in this video from More Than Just Parks:
7. Ohio River Islands
Take a boat to this group of small islands on the Ohio River and take in the wildlife from the beaches.
8. The Highland Scenic Highway
Take a drive along the beautiful Highland Scenic Highway with no destination in mind.
9. Bear Rocks Preserve
This beautiful spot in the Bear Rocks Preserve overlooking Dolly Sods is a photographer's paradise with fascinating rock formations and beautiful scenic overlooks.
10. Seneca Caverns
With beautiful walkways and incredible formations, this cave will make you feel like you're in another world. It's just one of the many amazing caves in West Virginia.
11. Seneca Rocks
This is the only true peak in West Virginia and one of the many reasons why we are called the Mountain State.
12. The Cranberry Glades
Take a walk through this beautiful bog and enjoy the sights of the odd plants that grow there.
Check out the unique 750-acre Cranberry Glades in this video from Dave The Hillside Gardener:
These are only a few of the many natural attractions in WV. What's on your West Virginia outdoor bucket list?
If you need even more locations to add to your list, take a look at these stunning places that will remind you that West Virginia is Almost Heaven.
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