Affordable WV Family Vacation Tip #1

Spend a day traveling the Highland Scenic Highway!

In my previous post I mentioned that I would be highlighting 101 great and affordable family vacation activities throughout West Virginia - my "101 things to do in WV list". Today I'm highlighting the first activity - The Highland Scenic Highway.

The Highland Scenic Highway is a designated National Scenic Byway. This byway winds it's way through over 40 miles of West Virginia beginning in Richwood, WV at Rt 39 and ending just north of Marlinton, WV at Rt 150. Don't think for a moment that traveling down this highway is just taking another trip down an ordinary road. This byway is more than just a road, along the way you'll be sure to encounter breathtaking views of the Allegheny Highlands, wetland bogs, trout-filled waters, a waterfall and hundreds of hiking trails at various points. It's estimated to take around 2 hours to drive the whole length of the highway but it's highly recommended to think instead about turning this 2-hour car or motorcycle ride into an entire day trip. Moreover - this day trip is absolutely family-friendly and totally affordable since all of the stops along the way are free meaning you don't have to spend a dime to enjoy them!

As an example of a fun and affordable activity along the Highland Scenic Highway, why not plan a great family picnic along one of the four developed scenic overlooks? Each overlook was specifically designed to enjoy the amazing views of the Allegheny Mountains and has a paved parking area, restrooms and picnic tables. The scenic overlooks are named Williams River, Big Spruce, Little Laurel and Big Lick and each are clearly noted along Rt 150. With amazing views stretching for miles an ordinary picnic will be transformed into a visionary masterpiece!