While we love making memories with loved ones, sometimes getting out and enjoying one’s own company is in order. Going out and exploring on a solo trip allows you to push your limits and discover new things about yourself. The wilds of Southern West Virginia are perfect for introspection, relaxation, and excitement.
Rest up at a quiet camping spot under the stars
When was the last time you intentionally looked up at the stars? Our region has plenty of camping sites where you can pitch a tent or trailer, get a fire going, and look up. As a solo traveler, you’ll get to hear the crackling fire, the calls of nightjars and owls, and wind rustling through leaves—all while seeing thousands of planets and stars.
Eat lunch at a scenic spot
Eating at a restaurant is nice, but sometimes, grabbing a meal to-go and bringing it to an overlook where you parked or hiked to hits just right. If you’re in the Fayetteville area, we recommend grabbing sandwiches from The Take Out, Cathedral Cafe, Wood Iron Eatery, or Secret Sandwich Society. Bring your delicious grub to a vista like a spot on Fayette Station Road, the tip of Long Point Trail, or one of the many offshoots along Endless Wall Trail. Those closer to Grandview, Uptown Dish has you covered. The perfect stop for a take-out lunch by Sandstone Falls is The Market on Courthouse Square. Another special scenic view is Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory. While the observation tower is no longer open, the trails and views are. Get a sandwich from The Cheese n’ More Store before heading up the mountain. While you eat your Appalachian-made cuisine, you can take in the views around you.
Tackle some rapids on a whitewater rafting trip
Going on a solo trip doesn’t mean being all alone! It’s also a great opportunity to try something new or make friends while challenging yourself—like going whitewater rafting! There are a variety of great rafting outfitters in Southern West Virginia, and none require rafting experience for beginner trips. By the end of the experience of working together to ride some rapids on the New River, you’ll have surely made at least one new friend and a tale to take back home.
Zipline through the forest or take a nighttime canopy tour
Going on a solo trip gives you space to spread your wings, and you can take that literally by booking a zipline tour and zooming through the trees. Stretch out or hold on as you fly through the canopy. For a unique experience, take on MoonTrek—a nighttime obstacle course done by the glow of LEDs and the moonlight.
Learn about coal history at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine
Taking a solo trip to a museum means you can take your time with the exhibits and ask the workers all the questions you want. At the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, you can take your time reading and absorbing mining history through the exhibits and the mining town. The museum has a team of knowledgeable staff and volunteers on hand to answer any questions you may have.
Get something unique from a local boutique
Otter & Oak, Hinton Outfitters, Younique Boutique, and shops in downtown Lewisburg feature hand-selected pieces and gifts featuring designs celebrating the area. Snag a new outfit, a memento of your trip, or a gift to bring home.
Go for a refreshing swim in a mountain lake or stream
Southern West Virginia is home to plenty of swimming holes to float in or swim to your heart’s content. At Summersville Lake, you can go to the designated beach or paddle out to a secluded area along the shore to get out and get in the water. Glade Creek Falls at the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is a favorite. These falls are along the Glade Creek Trail, near the Glade Creek Campground. Going for a dip is always refreshing after going for a hike or to cool off on a hot summer day.
No matter where your journey takes you, there’s a lot to explore and take in as a solo traveler in Southern West Virginia. As a place surrounded by wilderness, it’s a great place to let go of stress while also taking time to enjoy life as your own person. Are you traveling alone this summer? Share it with us on our socials! Tag @visitwv or #visitwv.