When it comes to natural beauty few states can rival West Virginia.
Nestled in the heart of Appalachia the state is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the country.
From the rugged mountains of the Allegheny Plateau to the cascading waters of the New River Gorge there are plenty of breathtaking sights to see in West Virginia.
Here are 10 of the most stunning sights to see in the Mountain State:
1.
Blackwater Falls
Located in the Allegheny Mountains Blackwater Falls State Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in West Virginia.
The centerpiece of the park is Blackwater Falls a 62-foot cascade that tumbles over a sandstone cliff into a pool of emerald green water.
The falls get their name from the dark tint of the water which is caused by tannins leached from fallen hemlock and hardwood leaves.
2.
New River Gorge
The New River Gorge is one of the most scenic and popular recreation areas in West Virginia.
The gorge is home to the New River one of the oldest rivers in the world.
The river has cut a deep and scenic gorge through the Appalachian Mountains and the area is now a mecca for whitewater rafting rock climbing and hiking.
3.
Seneca Rocks
Seneca Rocks is a world-famous rock climbing destination located in the Seneca Creek Gorge.
The cliffs of Seneca Rocks rise nearly 900 feet above the gorge floor and they offer some of the most challenging and scenic rock climbing in the eastern United States.
4.
Dolly Sods Wilderness
Dolly Sods Wilderness is a high-elevation plateau located in the Allegheny Mountains.
The area is known for its stunning scenery which includes wildflower-covered meadows rocky outcrops and spruce-fir forests.
The wilderness is also home to a variety of wildlife including black bear white-tailed deer and ruffed grouse.
5.
Cranberry Glades
Cranberry Glades is a unique bog located in the Cranberry Wilderness.
The area is home to a variety of rare plants including carnivorous plants such as pitcher plants and sundews.
Cranberry Glades is also a great place to see wildlife including white-tailed deer red fox and ruffed grouse.
6.
Snowshoe Mountain
Snowshoe Mountain is the largest ski resort in the southeastern United States.
The resort is located in the Allegheny Mountains and it offers a variety of winter activities including downhill skiing snowboarding and cross-country skiing.
7.
Canaan Valley
Canaan Valley is a high-elevation valley located in the Allegheny Mountains.
The valley is home to a variety of plant and animal life including white-tailed deer red fox and ruffed grouse.
Canaan Valley is also a popular destination for winter activities such as downhill skiing cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
8.
Monongahela National Forest
Monongahela National Forest is a large forest located in the Allegheny Mountains.
The forest is home to a variety of plant and animal life including white-tailed deer black bear and ruffed grouse.
Monongahela National Forest is also a popular destination for recreation including camping hiking fishing and hunting.
9.
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is located at the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers.
The park is home to a variety of historical sites including the remains of the historic town of Harpers Ferry.
The park is also a popular destination for hiking camping and rafting.
10.
West Virginia State Capitol
The West Virginia State Capitol is located in the city of Charleston.
The Capitol is the seat of state government and it is home to the West Virginia Legislature and the West Virginia Supreme Court.
The Capitol is also a popular tourist destination and it is open for tours year-round.