If you’re searching for West Virginia’s most photogenic places, we’ve done the work for you. Happy photographing.
Appropriately named, Beauty Mountain is just that. Nestled along the New River Gorge, this popular vantage point provides panoramas of the winding valley and its snaking river. This is the perfect place for a group photo, selfie, or gorgeous scenic photograph.
Bob Ross would approve of the happy trees and sweeping scenery that Dolly Sods Wilderness Area has to offer. You are sure to find a thrilling photo on the many miles of trails at Dolly Sods. We recommend Rocky Ridge Trail for an easy hike or Blackbird Knob for those looking for something a bit more strenuous.
Head for the hills at Coopers Rock State Forest. This overlook can be described as, simply put, breathtaking. Try to get there at sunset to catch sun-kissed photographs. The Golden Hour looks a little more golden
from up here.
There’s beauty all around at the observation deck at Spruce Knob, which towers at 4,862 feet above sea level. You will see grand and eye-catching perspectives.
Grab exclusive views of West Virginia’s backcountry by taking the train at Cass Scenic Railroad to Bald Knob. Then, from the observation deck, look out onto the rolling green or fiery hills, depending on the time of year.
Dome is where the heart is. If mountain views aren’t what you’re after, point your camera at the West Virginia State Capitol in Charleston. The architecture alone is stunning, but if that doesn’t do it for you, the neatly groomed grounds sure will. You’ll find dogwoods, cherry blossoms, tulips,
and pansies—not to mention an abundance of friendly squirrels. The dome is currently undergoing repairs but is expected to be finished by late 2020.
Capture history with your lens by snapping photographs around Harpers Ferry’s old town or at the Jefferson Rock overlook, where you can see the convergence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers. There’s no way you’ll leave with an empty camera roll.
Hike Seneca Rocks and get peak views from atop the rocks, or get some great shots before heading up. Either way, you are certain to get stunning views and snag some splendid photos along the way. As you hike, be on the lookout for animals that are camera-ready, too.
You may think you’re not in West Virginia anymore at Cranberry Glades, but don’t be fooled. Along the boardwalk you will see aged bogs and wetlands of the area. While there, examine the plants—it’s here you’ll find some of West Virginia’s few carnivorous plants. It makes for a not-sobored walk.
We’re not going to water it down for you, Sandstone Falls is a natural and impressive beauty located just outside Hinton. Spanning 1,500 feet, these wide, majestic falls are an alluring sight. It’s no wonder the parking lot is usually filled with cars bearing out-of-state plates.
This story was originally published in the September 2019 issue of Wonderful West Virginia. To subscribe, visit wonderfulwv.com.
written by Savannah Carr