West Virginia's Cranberry Corridor.(Photo: West Virginia Tourism)
If you subscribe to the road-trip theory of travel—that an independent, self-paced drive is the best way to explore a place—then you’ll love to discover that it doesn’t get any better than in West Virginia. The Mountain State has some of the most well-maintained and well-preserved byways in the United States—country roads that take you not just to and from places, butthroughthem.
TheCranberry Corridoris a scenic byway that really captures the spirit of what makes West Virginia so special, and after driving this route, I’ve come to understand why they call it “Almost Heaven.”
Stop 1: Summersville Lake
A paradise for rock climbers and watersports enthusiasts alike,Summersville Lakeis the perfect starting point for your journey along the Cranberry Corridor. Just a stone’s throw from New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, the reservoir is home to scenic hiking, sparkling blue water—it’s even considered the “Little Bahamas of the East,” boasting the cleanest and clearest freshwater east of the Mississippi—and challenging rock climbing. New to climbing?New River Mountain Guideslocated in nearby Fayetteville, has all the gear and know-how to help you tackle the area’s lakeside routes.
Stop 2: Lewisburg
Lewisburghas such a quintessential small-town vibe that you’ll feel like you’re on a movie set. From picturesque storefronts and historic buildings to award-winningeateriesandbeer gardens, the town perfectly blends history into modern-day life. It also has excellent outdoor access: The 78-mileGreenbrier River Trailstarts right outside of town, and there’s a variety of state parks and outdoor recreation areas nearby.
Stop 3: Beartown State Park
When you step onto the boardwalk inBeartown State Park, it’s like being transported to another planet. You’ll feel almost suspended in midair among the moss-covered rock formations that pepper the park. It’s like something out ofAvatar. I’ve visited dozens of state parks around the country, and this is one of the most unique I’ve ever seen. It’s well worth a stop along your road trip. Plus, the boardwalk is wheelchair accessible and family-friendly.
Stop 4: Cranberry Glades Botanical Area
Embrace your inner bird nerd. TheCranberry Glades Botanical Areais a 750-acre nature preserve teeming with life. Birdwatchers and biologists come from far and wide to walk the boardwalk and glimpse the rare and unique plant and animal species that thrive in these bogs.
Road Trip Tip:Make sure to drive along theHighland Scenic Highwayafter visiting the Glades for sweeping views and scenic overlooks of the Cranberry Wilderness.
For a complete guide to West Virginia adventures,click here.