Road Tripping West Virginia’s Cranberry Corridor

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 U.S., country roads that take you not just to and from places, but through them.

The Cranberry Corridor is one of those scenic byways 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 One: Summersville Lake

A paradise for rock climbers and watersports enthusiasts alike, Summersville Lake is 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 Guides located in nearby Fayetteville has all the gear and the know-how to help you tackle all of the area’s lakeside routes.

Stop Two: Lewisburg

Lewisburg has such a quintessential small-town vibe that it makes you feel like you’re on a movie set. From picturesque storefronts and historic buildings to award-winning eateries and beer gardens, the town perfectly blends history into modern day life. It also has excellent outdoor access: The 78-mile long Greenbrier River Trail starts right outside of town and there’s a variety of state parks and outdoor recreation areas nearby.

Stop Three: Beartown State Park

When you step onto the boardwalk in Beartown 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, like something out of Avatar. I’ve visited dozens of state parks around the country and this one has to be one of the most unique ones I’ve ever seen and well worth a stop along your road trip. Plus, the boardwalk is wheelchair accessible and family-friendly.

Stop Four: Cranberry Glades Botanical Area

Embrace your inner bird nerd. The Cranberry Glades Botanical Area is a 750-acre nature preserve teeming with life. Bird watchers and biologists come from far and wide to walk the boardwalk and get glimpses of the rare and unique plant and animal species that thrive in these bogs.

Road Trip Tip: Make sure to drive along the Highland Scenic Highway after visiting the Glades for sweeping views and scenic overlooks of the Cranberry Wilderness.