Marlinton Travel Guide

Discover Marlinton, West Virginia through this comprehensive travel guide featuring the town's cultural attractions, natural treasures, food and drink scene, and more.


Introduction to Marlinton

Nestled in the Potomac Highlands of West Virginia, Marlinton is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of nature and culture. This small town will surprise you with its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and friendly people. Marlinton is an excellent destination for those who love the outdoors, as well as for those who want to learn more about West Virginia’s culture and traditions. Keep reading to discover all the things you can do and see in Marlinton.

List of Places to Visit in Marlinton

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Take a walk through history by visiting Marlinton’s museums and historical places. Start your trip at the Pocahontas County Historical Museum, which exhibits the area’s rich history through artifacts, photos, and documents dating back to the 1700s. You can also visit the Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, a 1900s-era logging town where you can take a ride on a steam locomotive and explore a reconstructed company town, complete with a company store, doctor’s office, and more.

Natural Attractions of Marlinton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Marlinton’s natural beauty is a sight to behold. The town is surrounded by the Monongahela National Forest, where you can hike, bike, swim, fish, and camp. The Greenbrier River Trail is a must-visit attraction, stretching over 78 miles through the mountains and valleys of West Virginia. The Cranberry Glades Botanical Area is also worth visiting, with its unique plant life and stunning views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Marlinton

Marlinton is a popular destination for hikers and bikers of all levels. The Greenbrier River Trail, as mentioned earlier, offers a scenic route for bikers and hikers alike. The Allegheny Trail is another option that takes you through the forest with stunning views of nature. Seneca State Forest offers various hiking trails ranging from easy to difficult, with a variety of stunning sights to explore.

Best Things to Do in Marlinton: Activities and Tours

Besides outdoor activities, you can also take part in a variety of unique experiences in Marlinton. Learn about local farming and taste delicious, farm-to-table food with a Farm 2 Fork Tour. Take a guided tour of the Cass Scenic Railroad to learn about the region’s logging heritage. Join in the annual Marlinton Maple Festival in March to celebrate West Virginia’s maple syrup production.

Week-Long Itinerary for Marlinton

Plan a week-long trip to Marlinton to truly experience all the town has to offer. Here’s a sample itinerary:

Day 1 - Learn about the area’s history with a visit to the Pocahontas County Historical Museum Day 2 - Take a scenic drive through the mountains and explore the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area Day 3 - Go biking on the Greenbrier River Trail and visit the Cass Scenic Railroad State Park Day 4 - Hike the Seneca State Forest trails and watch the sunset over Marlinton Lake. Day 5 - Take a one-of-a-kind Farm 2 Fork Tour and enjoy farm-to-table dining Day 6 - Explore nearby Durbin and take a scenic train ride through the mountains of West Virginia Day 7 - Relax and enjoy the beauty of the region, and try the various local products and souvenirs.

Food and Drink Scene of Marlinton

West Virginia’s cuisine is rich with traditional flavors and staple ingredients. In Marlinton, you can taste some of the best dishes the state has to offer.

Must-Try Dishes

Some must-try local dishes include pepperoni rolls, a savory pastry with pepperoni or sausage inside, and the famous West Virginia hot dog, topped with chili, mustard, and onions.

Local Beverages

Don’t leave Marlinton without trying its local craft beers. Visit the Greenbrier Valley Brewing Company, where they use local ingredients to produce unique beer flavors.

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

Marlinton offers various accommodation options, from cozy bed and breakfasts to primitive campgrounds. Some popular choices are Marlinton Motor Inn, Jerico Bed & Breakfast, and Watoga State Park. Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations or a simpler stay, Marlinton has something for you.

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

Get your hands on local products and souvenirs during your trip to Marlinton. You can purchase traditional hand-made crafts, like quilts and woodwork, at the Pocahontas County Artisans Co-op. If you want to bring home a taste of Marlinton, head to Allegheny Mountain Spring Water and purchase a bottle of naturally carbonated mineral water from a local spring.

Local Culture and Customs of Marlinton

West Virginia’s culture is a mix of traditions from Native Americans, early settlers, and African Americans. What sets Marlinton apart is the deep appreciation its people have for their history and local customs. Locals love to share stories and show their visitors the region’s unique features and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Marlinton

The best time to visit Marlinton is from late spring to early fall when the weather is mild, and you can take advantage of all the outdoor activities the town has to offer. June through August offer the most comfortable temperatures, with average highs in the 70s and lows in the 60s. September and October are also great months to visit, with fantastic leaf peeping opportunities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Marlinton

Do:

  • Respect nature; it’s the heart and soul of Marlinton.
  • Tip generously. Service industry workers rely on tips for their livelihood.
  • Join in the local celebrations and events to appreciate the unique culture of the region.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disturb wildlife in any way.
  • Disrespect sacred and historical places. Some local sites have deep cultural significance and should always be respected.
  • Smoke indoors but only at designated smoking areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Marlinton

Marlinton is generally a safe town, but as with any place you visit, be aware of your surroundings and keep your possessions secure. Be careful and cautious while driving on winding mountain roads, especially at night.

Health in Marlinton

West Virginia’s wilderness can be challenging to navigate. Do your research before embarking on outdoor activities to ensure you are well prepared.

Getting to Marlinton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Marlinton

The nearest international airports to Marlinton are the Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport in Virginia and the Charleston Yeager Airport in West Virginia.

Bus Stations Near Marlinton

There are limited bus services from surrounding cities to Marlinton. You can check schedules and book tickets through Greyhound Bus services.

Other Options

Renting a car is the most popular option for visiting Marlinton, as there are only limited transportation options in the area. If you’re coming from afar, Amtrak’s Cardinal Line passes through the region for your convenience.

How to Get Around in Marlinton

The easiest way to get around Marlinton is by car. Public transportation is limited, so it’s best to rent a car to explore the town and its surrounding areas. There are also bike rentals available in town for those looking for an eco-friendly option.

Where to Go Next from Marlinton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Marlinton’s central location makes it an excellent starting point to explore West Virginia. Nearby attractions include Snowshoe Mountain Resort, the New River Gorge, and the Seneca Rocks. You can continue your trip by exploring the heritage towns of Lewisburg or White Sulphur Springs, or visit the state capital of Charleston.

Conclusion

Marlinton may be small, but it’s packed with adventures and surprises. Whether you’re a nature lover or a history buff, you’ll find plenty to admire here. Plan a trip and discover the hidden gem of West Virginia.