2021 Bucket List
2021 — a new year for thrilling adventures and unique experiences. And there’s no better place to achieve your new goals than in Southern West Virginia! We’ve created a bucket list of some of our favorite activities that we think you should try this year.
Raft the New River
Head to the New River Gorge, the newest National Park, for an unforgettable adventure down the New River. From mild, rolling waves on the Upper New to wild Class IV rapids on the Lower New, there is a trip for everyone! Every amazing tour includes scenic landscapes, unique history and unforgettable whitewater. Book a trip with one of our rafting outfitters to experience it for yourself!
Hike to an Epic View
Hiking is a great four-season activity here! Search for spring wildflowers on the Little Laurel Trail at Grandview. Find the best glimpse of Summersville Lake on the Long Point Trail. Take in autumn’s natural beauty on the Endless Wall Trail in Fayette County. Or walk through a winter wonderland on the Greenbrier River Trail. No matter which season you visit, you’ll be sure to find a scenic view of Southern West Virginia.
Explore our Local Shops
Remember your 2021 adventures with a one-of-a-kind keepsake from a specialty shop! Our area is marked by local outdoor outlets, unique boutiques, art galleries, antique stores and more! From handmade pottery to primitive collectibles, find the perfect souvenir to take home.
Cheers to the New Year
Take a sip of some of Southern West Virginia’s best locally crafted spirits. Spend a weekend exploring our award-winning vineyards, distilleries and craft breweries. From hard cider and mead to pale ale and stouts, there are plenty of options to enjoy.
Find all our Favorite Waterfalls
For a peaceful activity for your new year, take a driving tour of Southern West Virginia and discover some magnificent waterfalls around every curve. From the majestic Cathedral Falls off of Route 60 to Sandstone Falls that stretches 1,500 feet across the New River, our area’s waterfalls are perfect for your bucket list!
Take a Walk Under the Bridge
Ready to see the New River Gorge from 851 feet above the New River? Take a Bridge Walk tour and experience an aerial view of the breathtaking landscape surrounding the Gorge. The catwalk is over a mile long and 24 inches wide. The tours last about two to three hours in length and move at a leisurely pace — so there’s plenty of opportunities for photos!
Take to the Trails on an Off-Road Tour
Southern West Virginia has three great options to get off-road! First, check “riding the largest contiguous trail system in the United States” off your bucket list this year! Explore the Hatfield-McCoy Trails on an off-road excursion. Next, visit Burning Rock Outdoor Adventure Park. This park offers over 100 miles of trails on 8000 acres. Bring your own ATV or rent one on-site. This park also offers Jeep trails! Last, but not least, for a guided adventure check out New River ATV which will take you on trails in the New River Gorge region. These outfitters offer great options for beginners, families and experts!
Enjoy a Foodie Tour
Our towns may be small, but they are full of flavor! Spend a few days taste-testing all the exceptional cuisine available in Southern West Virginia. From fine dining in the mountains to charming local restaurants, there’s a lot for food fans to discover here! To get you started, browse our Raleigh County, Downtown Fayetteville and Italian Restaurants dining guides.
Plan a Camping Trip
Get off the grid this year and plan a remote camping trip. Reconnect with yourself and nature while you enjoy the great outdoors in the mountains of Southern West Virginia. Pitch your tent at a state park to enjoy modern amenities like electric hookups and hot showers or set up a rustic campsite close to all the adventure.
Climb to New Heights
Scale the cliffs and see our spectacular sights from above on a climbing trip! You don’t have to be an expert climber to enjoy this sport. Our local outfitters and experienced guides will help you every step of the way.
What Southern West Virginia activity are you adding to your 2021 bucket list?