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HomeRoad TripsNorth AmericaUnited StatesEast USAWest VirginiaWest Virginia
West Virginia

West Virginia Road Trip

Charleston - Parkersburg - Elkins - Seneca Rocks - Arbovale - Lewisburg - Bluefield - Beckley

Expect on your itinerary

Security Security
Historical sites Historical sites
Landscape Landscape
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Urban life Urban life
Culture Culture
West Virginia Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages8 km1,029 h/stage1.7

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a West Virginia Road Trip in West Virginia?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 450EUR drive & more 138EUR sleep & more 792EUR eat & more 720EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,650EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 2,100EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 540EUR drive & more 188EUR sleep & more 1,188EUR eat & more 1,080EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,456EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 2,996EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 900EUR drive & more 250EUR sleep & more 1,980EUR eat & more 1,440EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 3,670EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,570EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,250EUR drive & more 275EUR sleep & more 550EUR eat & more 720EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,545EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,795EUR
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West Virginia Road Trip Itinerary

Experience the beauty of West Virginia on this 1029 km road trip, starting and ending in Charleston. Along the way, you will visit Parkersburg, Elkins, Seneca Rocks, Arbovale and Lewisburg. Parkersburg is a charming town with a vibrant downtown area, while Elkins offers many outdoor activities and a rich history. Seneca Rocks is a popular destination for rock climbers, with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Arbovale is a rural area with plenty of opportunities for fishing and other outdoor activities. Finally, Lewisburg is a quaint town with plenty of boutiques and restaurants. The best time of year to drive this route is during the summer months. The roads are generally in good condition, making it suitable for all drivers. However, this trip requires a high budget to be managed. So, plan ahead and enjoy the beauty of West Virginia on this 10-day road trip!
number of days 10 number of days
route length 1,029 km route length
budget high budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level low accident level

START Charleston

Distance 1,029 km Driving time 13.6 h Pace: fast 308.6 kWh Airports CRW
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Charleston, the capital of West Virginia, is a picturesque city nestled in the Appalachian Mountains and is the perfect starting point for the West Virginia Road Trip. The city is home to several historic sites and attractions, such as the state capitol building, the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences, and the West Virginia Culture Center featuring an impressive collection of artifacts. Other popular attractions include the City Market, the State Museum, and the West Virginia Botanic Garden. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Yeager Airport (CRW) located just 3 miles away from the city. Car rental services are available at the airport for those who wish to explore the area independently. Charleston is a great starting point to explore the many wonders of West Virginia. From its natural beauty to its unique culture and history, this area is sure to provide a memorable experience.

1 Charleston - Parkersburg

Distance 137 km Driving time 1.3 h Pace: fast 41.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Charleston to Parkersburg? This 85-mile drive along the scenic Appalachian Mountains will take you less than two hours. As you make your way through this stage, you will discover some of the most interesting historical sites in the area. Start your journey in Charleston, the capital of West Virginia, and explore its vibrant cultural scene. Visit the West Virginia State Capitol and learn about the state’s history and culture. Then, drive to the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences, where you can enjoy an array of exhibits and performances. Continue your road trip to Parkersburg, the second-largest city in West Virginia. Here, you can visit the Blennerhassett Museum of Regional History and learn about the city’s past. You can also explore the Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park and take in the beauty of the Ohio River. Along the way, you will have plenty of opportunities to take in the stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains. Don’t forget to stop and take some pictures of the breathtaking scenery! Make sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your road trip!

2 Parkersburg - Elkins

Distance 198 km Driving time 2.7 h Pace: fast 59.4 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Embark on a road-trip from Parkersburg to Elkins and take in the sights of West Virginia. This 123 mile journey will take you less than 3 hours and will be filled with historical sites and attractions. Start off in Parkersburg and visit the Blennerhassett Museum of Regional History. Learn about the history of the area and the story of Harman and Margaret Blennerhassett. Then, take a stroll through the Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park, where you can explore the island and its many attractions. Continue your journey to Elkins, where you can visit the Augusta Heritage Center. This center is dedicated to preserving the heritage of the Appalachian region. Take part in one of the many traditional workshops or take a tour of the historic buildings on the grounds. Make sure to take your time and enjoy the many sights and attractions along the way. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites, please refer to the itinerary of this stage.

3 Elkins - Seneca Rocks

Distance 98 km Driving time 1.6 h Pace: fast 29.3 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips
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Welcome road-trippers! This stage of your journey will take you through the beautiful landscapes of West Virginia, covering an approximate distance of 61mi and a driving time of fewer than 2 hours, starting in Elkins and ending in Seneca Rocks. In Elkins, you can visit the American Mountain Theater, a local musical venue with a variety of performances, as well as the historic Elkins Depot, a historic train station with a museum and a gift shop. As you drive towards Seneca Rocks, you will pass by the Blackwater Falls State Park, a beautiful natural area with a majestic waterfall, as well as the Canaan Valley Resort State Park, a popular destination for outdoor activities. When you arrive at Seneca Rocks, you can explore the Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area, a stunning mountain cliff with plenty of climbing and hiking opportunities. You can also visit the Seneca Caverns, a unique cave system with a variety of underground formations. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. We hope you enjoy your journey!

4 Seneca Rocks - Arbovale

Distance 70 km Driving time 1.0 h Pace: fast 20.9 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
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Take your road trip to the next level with a visit to Seneca Rocks, United States to Arbovale! This 43-mile, less than one-hour drive, takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the area. Start your journey in Seneca Rocks, where you can take in the majestic views of the 900-foot tall quartzite cliffs. Take a guided tour or explore on your own, and don’t forget to snap a few photos! Next, head to the Monongahela National Forest, where you can take a leisurely stroll through the dense forest and admire the beautiful scenery. Finally, end your journey in Arbovale. This small town is home to many outdoor activities, such as fishing, hiking, and camping. It’s also the perfect spot to relax and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy the journey!

5 Arbovale - Lewisburg

Distance 130 km Driving time 2.0 h Pace: fast 38.9 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Let the adventure begin! Start your road trip in Arbovale, United States and drive 81 miles to Lewisburg. On your way, you will have the opportunity to explore some of the most interesting places in the region. In Arbovale, you can visit the historic Arbovale Presbyterian Church, which was built in 1869. The church is a great example of the architectural style of the 19th century and is a great stop for history lovers. As you drive through the beautiful landscape, you can also visit the historic Edray Presbyterian Church in Edray. This church was built in 1834 and is a beautiful example of the region’s architecture. Finally, you will arrive in Lewisburg, where you can visit the Lewisburg Historic District. This district includes a number of historic buildings, including the Old Stone Church and the Old Stone House. The entire journey will take you less than two hours, so you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the countryside on your way. Keep an eye out for historical sites and other attractions along the way. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

6 Lewisburg - Bluefield

Distance 154 km Driving time 1.6 h Pace: fast 46.3 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Lewisburg to Bluefield? This 96 mile journey takes less than two hours and is one of the most interesting stages of this larger tour. Begin your journey in Lewisburg, home to the Greenbrier Valley Theatre, a beautiful historic theatre located in the heart of downtown. Then, take a stroll through the Carnegie Hall, a stunning National Historic Landmark, and the North House Museum, which houses a unique collection of artifacts. Continue your journey to Bluefield, which is home to the Bluefield State College and the Bluefield Union Mission. Also, visit the Bluestone National Scenic River, a beautiful and peaceful river that offers stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Finally, don't forget to check out the historic East River Mountain Tunnel, the oldest railroad tunnel in the United States. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

7 Bluefield - Beckley

Distance 143 km Driving time 2.4 h Pace: fast 43.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
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Welcome, road-trippers! This stage of your journey starts in Bluefield, United States and ends in Beckley, a distance of 89mi and a drive time of fewer than 3 hours. In Bluefield, you can visit the beautiful Bluestone River, or take a stroll along the Appalachian Trail. You can also enjoy some of the local cuisine at the restaurants and cafes in the city. As you make your way to Beckley, you can stop at the Grandview State Park for some stunning views of the surrounding countryside. You can also visit the Exhibition Coal Mine, a great way to learn about the history of the area. When you reach Beckley, be sure to explore the city's many attractions. The Tamarack is a great place to shop for local crafts and products, while the Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center is a great place to take in a show. At the end of your journey, you can take a relaxing stroll through the beautiful gardens at the Little Beaver State Park. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Happy travels!

8 Beckley - Charleston

Distance 99 km Driving time 1.0 h Pace: fast 29.8 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Beckley to Charleston? This 62mi journey will take you less than an hour to complete, but it will be filled with amazing sights and attractions. Start your journey in Beckley, where you can explore the Exhibition Coal Mine and learn about the city's coal mining history. Then, head to the Raleigh County Courthouse, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. As you make your way to Charleston, you'll pass through quaint towns and picturesque landscapes. Once you arrive in Charleston, you'll find plenty of attractions to explore. Visit the Capitol Complex, the West Virginia State Museum, and the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences of West Virginia. You can also take a stroll through the beautiful Capitol Market or take a boat tour of the Kanawha River. No matter what you decide to do, you'll have the time of your life. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!

  Charleston

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End your West Virginia Road Trip in Charleston, the capital of the state. With a rich history and a vibrant downtown, Charleston has something for everyone. Start your day with a visit to the Capitol Complex, which includes the State Capitol Building, the Governor’s Mansion and the Culture Center. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped grounds and take in the historic architecture. Continue your visit with a trip to the West Virginia State Museum. This museum is home to an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits, as well as interactive displays. Next up, explore the vibrant downtown area of Charleston. Stroll along the cobblestone streets and browse the unique boutiques, galleries and restaurants. At night, catch a show at the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences, or explore the city’s thriving live music and theater scene. If you’re looking for outdoor recreation, take a hike along the Kanawha State Forest’s trails or rent a canoe and explore the Kanawha River. The closest international airport to Charleston is Yeager Airport (CRW) in Charleston, West Virginia. End your West Virginia Road Trip in Charleston and create some lasting memories.

West Virginia Road Trip at a glance

We hope that our West Virginia Road Trip has become a perfect inspiration for your future travels.
Our itinerary can be used as a foundation that you can recreate in its entirety or only partially and that can be enriched with diverse attractions of your choice.
If travelling by car is your plan when exploring highlights around West Virginia, there are a number of essential traffic regulations to follow and a list of elements to keep in mind to make your trip safe. These tips will surely become useful for holidaymakers who are interested in car rental or camper hire in West Virginia.
There are a number of road regulations to be bore in mind while on a road trip around West Virginia. When moving around West Virginia in a car, try to stay away from alcohol at any cost. Travellers ought to remember that the amount of alcohol you can consume is not very high and equals only 0.5‰. Exceeding the maximum allowed speed limit, which is 40km/h, when travelling around the urban areas may result in speeding offence. The maximum speed outside the cities is 72km/h. While on motorways, you can drive at the maximum car speed of 129km/h. We recommend driving with your headlights on at daytime and equipping your car with a fire extinguisher and first aid kit for safety reasons.
How about the costs of the trip? Well, depending on the needs of the travellers, the money that you have to pay may differ. A wide range of budget possibilities is showed below.
We estimate that the budget option when it comes to fuel to cover the planned 1,029km while travelling around West Virginia will cost roughly 138 EUR. You will have to spend approximately 792 EUR on economy accommodation options. The travel expenses connected with food and restaurants within this option will cost up to about 720 EUR. If you also aim for the budget rental car option, you will pay about 450 EUR. Thus, going for car rental will increase the expenses of the road trip from more or less 1,650 EUR to around 2,100 EUR.
When it comes to the standard offer, you have to spend the maximum of 138 EUR to cover the planned stages of the road trip. Cost amounting to 1,188 EUR can be expected by all tourists who are looking for standard hotels. Travellers can expect that the standard option in terms of restaurants and food will cost more or less 1,080 EUR. Travellers who want to cover the trip in a standard hire vehicle can expect a cost of more or less 540 EUR. Summing up the standard offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total approximately 2,996 EUR for holidaymakers who would like to try vehicle rental and 2,456 EUR for those who are not interested in renting.
Travellers who are searching for the highest level of convenience will be pleased with the premium option. Drivers who would like to rent a car will pay approximately 4,570 EUR for the whole West Virginia Road Trip, whereas those who are not interested in vehicle rental will spend roughly 3,670 EUR. Travellers who would like to cover the tour in a premium rental vehicle should expect a cost of approximately 900 EUR. When it comes to the top standard version of the road trip, the gasoline cost will be up to approximately 250 EUR. You should expect to pay about 1,440 EUR for restaurants and food and around 1,980 EUR for hotels if you are interested in the exclusive standard of services during your road trip.
Our adventure will also be excellent for all camper lovers, as it can be easily adjusted to their expectations. If you choose this means of transport, the expenses are roughly 2,250 EUR. Gasoline to tank a camper for the whole trip will cost about 275 EUR. Camper fans should expect to pay more or less 720 EUR for expenses connected with food and roughly 550 EUR for overnight stays.
The section Road Trip Costs presents all the above-mentioned details in an easy to follow manner.
The part of West Virginia presented in our itinerary idea is most enjoyable between May and October. If West Virginia Road Trip has inspired you, you should definitely check out other exciting adventures that we offer on our website. Even the most demanding of travellers will surely be taken aback by the great variety of road trips that we offer.

Facts for safer driving in West Virginia

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 40 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 72 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 129 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher yes
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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