From small-town Americana to the one of the nation’s newest national parks, the Capitol Circle is an epic journey you won’t want to miss
West Virginia’s Capitol Circle. (Photo: West Virginia Tourism)
Published June 22, 2026 05:07PM
As I was walking that ribbon of highway, I saw above me that endless skyway; I saw below me that golden valley; and I really thought: This land was made for you and me.
The song is maybe a little bit earnest, definitely a lot nostalgic, but rings totally true when driving the Capitol Circle in West Virginia. There are few places in the United States that capture the spirit of Woody Guthrie’s lyrics like the Mountain State, and one of the best ways to get the full picture of this beautiful place is on an epic drive-hike-eat-raft-style road trip. Connecting the state’s top adventures on a road trip lets you explore it all, from the lush, rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains to the plunging canyons of the New River Gorge.
I was lucky enough to sample it all on a recent trip. Here’s how to put the highlights together on the Capitol Circle route.
Stop One: Charleston
Start in the state’s capital city of Charleston. Here, you’ll find a vibrant urban center full of great food, shopping, and river access. Check out the golden dome of the State Capitol, take in the views of the rolling green hills from the riverwalk, or explore Capitol Market: an indoor/outdoor market home to flowers, food stalls, and local vendors selling everything from West Virginia honey to gourmet cuts of meat.
Stop Two: Waterfalls
West Virginia is overflowing (pun intended) with waterfalls—there’s even a mobile passport where you can collect waterfalls throughout the state. As you travel southeast from Charleston on Interstate 64, you can stop at Cathedral Falls, Kanawha Falls, and the Roadside Little Waterfall.
Stop Three: New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve was designated in 2020, making it one of the country’s newest national parks. And in my humble opinion, it’s also one of the best kept secrets in the outdoors. The New River Gorge is a hidden gem not just for its beauty but for all the opportunities for adventure that it has to offer. It’s home to plenty of picturesque hikes like the Endless Wall Trail and the Kaymoor Trail and boasts some of the best whitewater rafting in the country. Outfitters like ACE Adventure Resort can take you out on the New River to enjoy everything from Class IV rapids to family-friendly floats.
Stop Four: Fayetteville
Small town charm meets unparalleled outdoor access in Fayetteville. Less than three miles away from the Canyon Rim Visitor Center, Fayetteville is the gateway to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Before heading out for hiking or rafting, fuel up with a coffee beneath the stained glass at Cathedral Cafe, or grab a bite at the Secret Sandwich Society where they have some of the best chicken wings I’ve ever had and a great selection of local West Virginia beers.
Stop Five: Hatfield-McCoy Trails
As you start to head north back towards Charleston, make a pitstop in Logan and go trail riding on the iconic Hatfield-McCoy Trails. Named for the infamous family feud that took place in the region more than 150 years ago, this interconnected trail system is now home to more than 1,000 miles of ATVing heaven. You can bring your own machine or rent one from one of the many registered outfitters in the area including BAC Country Rentals. Always remember to ride with a permit and practice proper trail etiquette and safety.
