Things To Do Near Bluestone National Scenic River
The Bluestone National Scenic River is a pristine slice of nature that offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Hikers along the nearly 10-mile Bluestone Turnpike Trail might still discover the artifacts from some of the area's earliest settlers as they pass near the site where the town of Lilly once stood. The Bluestone River winds through a 1,000-foot-deep gorge and offers visitors the chance to try their hand at warm water fishing. When the water is high enough, paddling the peaceful river is a popular way to enjoy the stunning scenery.
Hiking Trails
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The Bluestone Turnpike Trail
The Bluestone Turnpike Trail is a roughly 10-mile point-to-point trail that traverses nearly the entire length of the Bluestone National Scenic River. Following an old river road that was once used by farmers and the timber industry, the Bluestone Turnpike Trail now leads nature lovers through a forested land filled with a diverse ecosystem of plants and wildlife. The trail connects on the northern end to Bluestone State Park Campground Road. On the southern end, it connects with Pipestem Resort State Park, where you have the option of descending the 5.5-mile River Trail or descending to the floor of the 1,000-foot gorge via an aerial tram from the Canyon Rim Center.
Location
From Bluestone State Park: Old Mill Way, White Oak, WV 25989; from Pipestem State Park: Canyon Way, Lerona, WV 25971
Length
9.5 Miles
Intensity
Moderate
Sightseeing
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The Lost Town of Lilly
Settled in the 1700s by Robert and Frances Lilly, Josiah Meador, and their families, Lilly was one of the first settlements in the Appalachian region of West Virginia. The two families scratched a living from the rugged land by farming and logging. The settlement became a thriving small community over time. In the 1940s, the construction of the Bluestone Dam forced the residents to abandon their homes. Today visitors can still see a few of the foundations that mark where homes and businesses once stood.
Location
Bluestone River, WV
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Pipestem Resort State Park
Located at the southern edge of the Bluestone National Scenic River, Pipestem State Park is a 4,050-acre park that offers a wide variety of activities for the entire family. Visitors can hike one of 13 trails, take an exciting zip line tour, or cool off on a hot day at Adventure Lake and Splash Park. If you prefer a slower pace, the park boasts an 18-hole championship golf course, four restaurants, and several shops.
Location
3405 Pipestem Dr, Pipestem, WV 25979
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Bluestone State Park
Bluestone State Park is located at the northern edge of the Bluestone National Scenic River. Established in 1950, the park's main feature is a 2,040-acre lake that was created by the Bluestone Dam. The Bluestone Marina rents a variety of watercraft for those interested in spending a quiet day on the lake.
Location
HC, 78, Hinton, WV 25951
Museums
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Veterans Memorial Museum of Southern West Virginia
The Veterans Memorial Museum boasts an extensive collection of military memorabilia representing every major American conflict from the Revolution to Afghanistan. Most items in the museum were donated by local veterans. The museum also houses General MacArthur's footlocker and a vintage Jeep.
Location
419 Ballengee Street, Hinton, WV 25951
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Campbell-Flannagan-Murrell House Museum
Built around 1875 by Edgar Campbell and his wife, the Campbell-Flannagan-Murrell House Museum is the oldest standing residence in Hinton. One of the first merchants in town, the Campbell's, utilized the basement of the home as a general store. The home remained within the family for several generations until 1988. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Location
422 Summers Street, Hinton, WV 25951
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Grandma’s House
If you are looking for antiques and retro items, Grandma's House is the perfect place to stop. Owned by West Virginian natives Michael and Margie Temple, Grandma's House offers a wide variety of antique finds, vintage kitchen items, and home décor.
Location
407 2nd Ave, Hinton, WV 25951
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The Market on Courthouse Square
The Market on Courthouse Square is a great place to grab a casual meal with family and friends. With a menu that includes everything from soup to burgers to brick oven pizzas, there's sure to be something to tempt everyone's taste buds.
Location
200 Ballengee Street, Hinton, WV 25951
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Mountain Creek Dining Room
The Mountain Creek Dining Room is located at the Mountain Creek Lodge and offers a unique dining experience accessible only via the aerial tram from Pipestem Resort State Park. The menu offers up an innovative menu served in a restaurant surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Bluestone River.
Location
Pipestem State Park Resort, Pipestem, WV