Attractions and Places To See in Raleigh County - Top 8

Raleigh County is rich in natural beauty, particularly within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. You can visit Grandview Main Overlook for stunning views of the New River, or explore trails like Castle Rock Trail and Glade Creek Trail. The region also features majestic waterfalls like Sandstone Falls and the smaller Kates Fall.

To delve into Raleigh County's history, you can explore the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, which offers immersive underground tours led by retired miners. Another significant site is Wildwood (General Alfred Beckley House), the restored 1836 home of Beckley's founder. You can also find historic buildings in the Beckley Courthouse Square Historic District and the Sophia Historic District.

Yes, Raleigh County offers several family-friendly options. The Grandview Main Overlook and Sandstone Falls are accessible and enjoyable for all ages. The Youth Museum of Southern West Virginia, located near the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, provides interactive, hands-on exhibits. Little Beaver State Park and Lake Stephens also offer various recreational activities suitable for families, including fishing, boating, and swimming.

Beyond exploring the attractions themselves, Raleigh County provides numerous outdoor activities. You can find a variety of hiking trails, including easy options like the Grandview Rim & Castle Rock Trail loop and the Island Loop Trail to Sandstone Falls. For more challenging hikes, consider the Glade Creek Trail. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Hiking in Raleigh County guide.

Tamarack Marketplace is a premier destination for Appalachian arts and culture, featuring handcrafted items, gourmet food, and traditional crafts by local artisans. You can also find Appalachian cuisine there. Additionally, the Bill Withers Plaza in Beckley honors the Grammy-winning musician and local native with a statue.

Yes, for winter sports enthusiasts, Winterplace Ski Resort in Raleigh County offers 27 trails for skiing and snowboarding, along with the largest snow tubing park in West Virginia.

While Raleigh County offers attractions year-round, the spring, summer, and fall months are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and water sports, when the weather is mild and the natural landscapes are vibrant. Winter provides opportunities for snow sports at Winterplace Ski Resort.

Lake Stephens is a popular spot for water activities, offering opportunities for swimming, fishing (including for largemouth bass, bluegill, and tiger musky), and various boating options. Little Beaver State Park also features a lake suitable for fishing and boating with row and paddle boats.

Many outdoor areas in Raleigh County are dog-friendly. For example, the Beckley Rail Trail, a 6.9-mile paved path, welcomes leashed dogs for walks and nature hikes. Always check specific park or attraction rules regarding pets before your visit.

The Grandview Main Overlook is generally accessible, offering views of the New River after a short walk from the parking area and visitor center. Sandstone Falls also features a boardwalk for viewing, making it more accessible for visitors.

For those seeking off-road thrills, Burning Rock Outdoor Adventure Park provides extensive trails for ATV, side-by-side, and Jeep enthusiasts, offering a rugged outdoor experience.

Beyond the main attractions, you might enjoy visiting Daniel Vineyards, a local winery producing red, white, and sweet wines since 1990, complete with a patio and tasting room. Another unique spot is the Glade Creek Recreation Area, where Glade Creek meets the New River, offering a boat ramp and a first-come, first-serve camping area.