Eastern Panhandle history
Base in Harpers Ferry or Shepherdstown. Two rivers, Civil War history, river rafting and antiques within a short drive.
Guide →
Weekend Getaways
West Virginia Weekend Getaways: Best Two-Day Trips
Two days is enough for a gorge hike, a waterfall boardwalk, a mountain town dinner and a scenic drive home. Here are the itineraries that work best.
West Virginia is ideal for a weekend because its regions are distinct and compact. Pick one area, drive in Friday night, spend Saturday exploring and head home Sunday with one last stop. Resist the urge to see everything — the mountain roads are slow, and the best moments happen when you linger.
Each itinerary below pairs a base town with nearby attractions, a place to eat and an optional hike. Adjust by season and your appetite for adventure.
Classic two-day itineraries
Southern WV · Base: Fayetteville
New River Gorge adventure weekend
Saturday: bridge overlook, Long Point or Endless Wall hike, then an afternoon rafting or a Bridge Walk. Sunday: Grandview and Sandstone Falls, with a stop in Beckley for the coal mine. Fayetteville and Beckley offer the best lodging and food.
New River Gorge guide →
Potomac Highlands · Base: Davis or Thomas
Waterfalls & high country weekend
Saturday: Blackwater Falls boardwalk, a Canaan Valley hike and dinner in Thomas. Sunday: drive the Highland Scenic Highway to Dolly Sods or head to Seneca Rocks and Spruce Knob. Cabins and inns in Davis fill early in fall.
Blackwater Falls guide →
Greenbrier Valley · Base: Lewisburg
Towns, trails & the Greenbrier
Saturday: browse Lewisburg, tour the Greenbrier resort's bunker and walk the Greenbrier River Trail at Marlinton. Sunday: Organ Cave or Lost World Caverns, then home. A relaxed, culture-heavy weekend.
Lewisburg guide →More two-day trip ideas
Morgantown & Coopers Rock
A college-town food weekend paired with the Coopers Rock overlook and Cheat Lake trails.
Guide →Charleston city break
The State Museum, Capitol, Clay Center and a strong restaurant scene, with easy Kanawha Valley hikes nearby.
Guide →Pocahontas County outdoors
Watoga, Cranberry Glades, the Greenbrier River Trail and Cass Scenic Railroad in one quiet mountain weekend.
Guide →Summersville Lake & Gauley
Paddle the Caribbean-blue lake in summer and catch the Gauley River release days in fall.
Guide →Wheeling & the northern panhandle
Victorian architecture, Oglebay Park and Ohio River views make for an underrated weekend.
Guide →Where to stay
- 01State park cabins. Pipestem, Blackwater Falls, Watoga and Twin Falls offer kitchens, fireplaces and trail access — book weeks ahead.
- 02Mountain town inns. Boutique hotels and B&Bs in Thomas, Davis, Lewisburg and Fayetteville put restaurants within walking distance.
- 03Resort lodges. Snowshoe and Pipestem are great for families, with pools, activities and ski or golf in season.
- 04Campgrounds. From developed state park loops to dispersed forest sites, camping keeps a weekend affordable.
Weekend trips FAQ
What is the best weekend trip in West Virginia?
The New River Gorge based out of Fayetteville is the most popular — it combines an iconic hike, rafting, great food and a scenic bridge. The Potomac Highlands is the best alternative.
How far apart are the regions?
Allow two to four hours of mountain driving between major regions. Plan to spend your weekend in one area rather than crossing the state twice.
How early should I book cabins?
For fall foliage weekends and holiday periods, book two to six months ahead. Spring and summer cabins are easier, but popular parks still sell out.
Is a car necessary?
Yes. West Virginia has very limited public transit between towns and trailheads, so a reliable car is essential for any weekend itinerary.
About
Discover WV Today is an independent travel and outdoor guide dedicated to helping visitors discover the best places, outdoor adventures, small towns, state parks, historic sites and hidden gems throughout West Virginia. Learn more about us →