Richwood Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of Richwood, West Virginia with our comprehensive travel guide that includes a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, where to stay, and what to buy in Richwood.


Introduction to Richwood

Located in Mountains and Lakes Country, West Virginia, in the south of the United States, Richwood is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This peaceful town is surrounded by breathtaking scenery, including the Monongahela National Forest, and offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural experiences.

List of Places to Visit in Richwood

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Richwood Historical Society Museum: Explore the history of Richwood and the surrounding area through exhibits of artifacts, photographs, and documents.
  • Cranberry Glades Botanical Area: A unique ecosystem with a boardwalk through the bog area. Visitors can learn about the plants and animals that call the glades home.
  • Cherry River Navy Post Office: A historic post office that was established in 1914 and has been in operation ever since.

Natural Attractions of Richwood: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cranberry Wilderness: A designated wilderness area that provides opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing.
  • Falls of Hills Creek: A series of three waterfalls that can be viewed from a trail that winds through a wooded canyon.
  • Summit Lake: A peaceful lake that offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Richwood

Richwood is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering miles of scenic hiking and biking trails. Some of the most popular trails in the area include:

  • Cranberry Glades Boardwalk: A 0.4-mile boardwalk trail that winds through the bog area, offering views of unique plants and animals.
  • Summit Lake Trail: A 1.5-mile trail that circles the lake and offers scenic views of the surrounding forest.
  • Falls of Hills Creek Trail: A 1.7-mile trail that leads to the three scenic waterfalls.

Best Things to Do in Richwood: Activities and Tours

  • Cranberry Mountain Nature Center: Learn about the unique ecosystem of Cranberry Glades and the surrounding area through interactive exhibits and ranger-led programs.
  • Cherry River Festival: Held annually in July, this festival celebrates the town’s heritage with live music, crafts, and food.
  • Hunting and Fishing: Richwood is a popular destination for hunters and anglers, offering opportunities for deer, turkey, and trout.

Week-Long Itinerary for Richwood

Day 1: Explore the town of Richwood and visit the Richwood Historical Society Museum.

Day 2: Spend the day hiking in Cranberry Wilderness.

Day 3: Visit the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area and take a ranger-led program.

Day 4: Take a scenic drive along Highland Scenic Highway.

Day 5: Fish or kayak at Summit Lake.

Day 6: Visit Falls of Hills Creek and take the trail to the waterfalls.

Day 7: Attend the Cherry River Festival.

Food and Drink Scene of Richwood

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cherry Pie: Made with locally grown cherries, this pie is a must-try for visitors.
  • Sugar-cured Ham: Richwood is known for its sugar-cured ham, which is cured with a sweet glaze.

Local Beverages

  • Birch Beer: A refreshing soda made with birch bark extract.
  • Moonshine: Richwood is located in moonshine country, so visitors can sample locally made moonshine.

Where to Stay in Richwood: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Summit Lake Campground: A peaceful campground that offers RV and tent camping, as well as cabins.
  • Hampton Inn: A comfortable hotel located in the heart of Richwood.
  • Cherry Hill Bed and Breakfast: A charming bed and breakfast with a beautiful garden.

What to Buy in Richwood: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cherry Products: Richwood is known for its cherries, so be sure to bring home some cherry jam or cherry barbecue sauce.
  • Handmade Crafts: Local artisans create beautiful handmade crafts, including pottery and quilts.

Local Culture and Customs of Richwood

Richwood has a strong Appalachian culture, with a focus on community and family. Visitors will enjoy the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of the town.

Best Time to Visit Richwood

The best time to visit Richwood is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its most beautiful.

Do’s and Don’ts of Richwood

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment and wildlife.
  • Support local businesses and artisans.
  • Attend the Cherry River Festival.

Don’t:

  • Litter or pollute the environment.
  • Ignore safety precautions while hiking or camping.
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Richwood

Richwood is a safe town, but visitors should take precautions while hiking and camping in the woods.

Health in Richwood

The nearest hospital is in Summersville, about 20 miles away from Richwood.

Getting to Richwood: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Richwood

The nearest airport is the Yeager Airport in Charleston, about 80 miles away from Richwood.

Bus Stations Near Richwood

The nearest bus station is in Summersville, about 20 miles away from Richwood.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Richwood or take a taxi from nearby towns.

How to Get Around in Richwood

The best way to get around Richwood is by car. Visitors can also hike or bike to nearby attractions.

Where to Go Next from Richwood: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • New River Gorge National Park and Preserve: A scenic area with hiking, kayaking, and rock climbing opportunities.
  • Snowshoe Mountain Resort: A popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter and mountain biking in the summer.

Conclusion

Richwood is a hidden gem in the heart of West Virginia, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural experiences. Visitors will enjoy the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of the town and the stunning scenery of the surrounding area.

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