Potomac Highlands Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Potomac Highlands with our comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, things to do, hiking and biking routes, where to stay, and local traditions.


Introduction to Potomac Highlands

Located in the South of West Virginia, Potomac Highlands is a mountainous region dotted with lush forests, stunning vistas, and rich cultural history. The terrain lends itself to outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, fishing, and skiing in winters. The region also boasts museums and historical sites that showcase the indigenous and colonial past of the area.

List of Places to Visit in Potomac Highlands

The following is a list of major places to visit in Potomac Highlands:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cass Scenic Railroad: An historic 1900s logging railroad that now operates as a tourist attraction. Visitors can take a scenic train ride through the mountains.
  • Elkins Depot Welcome Center: A restored train station offering visitors information on the area’s history and attractions.
  • Monongahela National Forest: A vast area encompassing miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding amid beautiful mountain views.
  • Allegheny Highlands Trail: A 25-mile multi-use trail following an old railroad route that takes visitors across stunning mountain landscapes.

Natural Attractions of Potomac Highlands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Spruce Knob: The highest peak in West Virginia, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
  • Smoke Hole Canyon: A strikingly beautiful canyon with a river running through it, the site offers outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and camping.
  • Blackwater Falls State Park: A stunning park known for its beautiful waterfall and breathtaking views.
  • Seneca Rocks: A popular climbing destination, offering visitors great hiking trails as well as rock climbing opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Potomac Highlands

Potomac Highlands has several hiking and biking routes to suit a range of preferences and skill levels:

  • Stuart Recreation Area Trail: A 2.5-mile trail that leads to a waterfall and cave.
  • Seneca Creek Backcountry: A 14-mile hiking trail that passes several waterfalls and beautiful scenery.
  • Greenbrier River Trail: A 78-mile multi-use trail that follows the Greenbrier River through the scenic countryside.
  • Spruce Knob-Seneca Creek Backcountry: A 20-mile trail that takes visitors through some of the best scenery in the region.

Best Things to Do in Potomac Highlands: Activities and Tours

Visitors to Potomac Highlands can engage in a range of activities and tours:

  • Elk River Touring Center: Offers visitors outdoor activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and fishing as well as cabins for the night.
  • Seneca Rocks Discovery Center: Visitors can learn about the region’s history and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Highland County Maple Festival: Held annually in March, the festival celebrates the region’s maple sugar and syrup heritage with live music and food stalls.
  • Cranberry Mountain Nature Center: A center that offers naturalist-led hikes and educational programs focused on the region’s flora and fauna.

Week-Long Itinerary for Potomac Highlands

Day 1: Arrive in Elkins, check into your hotel, explore the town’s historic district.

Day 2: Visit the Cass Scenic Railroad or take a hike in the Monongahela National Forest.

Day 3: Experience the beautiful Blackwater Falls State Park and hiking on the Allegheny Highlands Trail.

Day 4: Head to the top of Spruce Knob for stunning views of the surrounding mountain range.

Day 5: Explore Seneca Rocks, scale rock cliffs or take the hiking trail.

Day 6: Enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking or canoe down the Elk River Touring Center.

Day 7: Take a nature walk and learn about the local flora and fauna at Cranberry Mountain Nature Center.

Food and Drink Scene of Potomac Highlands

The local cuisine in Potomac Highlands has a distinctly mountainous flair.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pepperoni Rolls: A baked roll filled with pepperoni slices.
  • Ramps: A wild leek found locally, often used in stews or soups.
  • Biscuits and Gravy: A traditional American breakfast dish often served with scrambled eggs and fried potatoes.
  • Shepherd’s Pie: A comforting British classic, made with beef or lamb, potatoes, and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Apple Cider: A refreshing seasonal drink, enjoyed during the autumn months.
  • Mountain State Brewing Company: A brewery that produces handcrafted beer made with locally grown hops and ingredients.

Where to Stay in Potomac Highlands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Potomac Highlands has a range of accommodation options suitable for all budgets:

  • Elkins Inn and Suites: A budget-friendly hotel with amenities such as hot tub and fitness center.
  • The Inn at Grist Mill Square: A luxurious inn with an on-site restaurant offering locally sourced ingredients.
  • Smoke Hole Resort: A rustic resort that offers cabins and outdoor activities in the scenic Smoke Hole Canyon.

What to Buy in Potomac Highlands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Potomac Highlands offers many locally-sourced souvenirs and crafts that are unique to the region:

  • Spruce Knob Jam: A preserve made with wild berries and apples harvested from the Spruce Knob region.
  • Hand-Woven Textiles: Products such as blankets, shawls, and scarves are crafted using traditional weaving techniques.
  • Maple Syrup: A local delicacy, produced from the sap of maple trees.

Local Culture and Customs of Potomac Highlands

The region has a rich and colorful heritage, steeped in stories and traditions. The locals are proud of their history and enjoy sharing it with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Potomac Highlands

The best time to visit Potomac Highlands is between May and October when the weather is most favorable and the scenery is at its most spectacular.

Do’s and Don’ts of Potomac Highlands

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Explore the outdoors and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
  • Take a guided tour of the local historic sites and museums.

Don’t:

  • Pick or remove wildflowers or other natural resources.
  • Leave litter or damage forest trails.
  • Trespass on private property.

Safety and Health

Safety in Potomac Highlands

The region is generally safe, but visitors should be mindful of the following:

  • Carry a first aid kit and appropriate outdoor gear while hiking or exploring nature reserves.
  • Wear a life jacket while boating.
  • Be cautious while camping to avoid wild animal encounters.

Health in Potomac Highlands

Visitors should take precautions to ensure their health and well-being when in Potomac Highlands. It is recommended to:

  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
  • Apply sunscreen to avoid sunburn.
  • Wear insect repellant to keep bugs away.

Getting to Potomac Highlands: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Potomac Highlands

  • Yeager Airport in Charleston is 3 hours drive from the region.
  • Pittsburgh International Airport is 2.5 hours drive from the region.

Bus Stations Near Potomac Highlands

  • Greyhound Bus lines have a station in Elkins offers transports visitors from major cities like New York, Pittsburgh.

Other Options

  • Visitors can also drive to Potomac Highlands and explore the region at their leisure.

How to Get Around in Potomac Highlands

Visitors can get around Potomac Highlands by car, bike, or on foot.

Where to Go Next from Potomac Highlands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Canaan Valley: A scenic valley located 1 hour drive from the region, offering winter sports and outdoor activities year-round.
  • Great Allegheny Passage Trail: A 150-mile trail stretching from Cumberland, Maryland to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
  • Davis and Thomas: Vibrant towns located in the heart of West Virginia’s mountains, offering galleries, music venues, and fine dining opportunities.

Conclusion

Potomac Highlands is a mountainous region that offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the wild outdoors while also experiencing its rich cultural history. With its breathtaking scenery, outdoor activities, and fascinating history, Potomac Highlands is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting West Virginia.



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