Hidden Gems Close to Seneca Rocks

Climbers, photographers, and adventurers alike have both traveled to West Virginia’s well-known Seneca Rocks State Park or have it on their bucket checklist. The magnificent landmark is true to draw the quantity of consideration that it does, the awe-inspiring 900-foot formation creates peaks like no different—however there may be a lot extra journey available within the space. I packed my bike, paddle board, and digicam and got down to discover Grant County, a neighboring journey mecca of West Virginia.  

Smoke Gap Canyon Recreation Space

Nestled inside a 40 sq. mile space of the Monongahela Nationwide Forest and framed by North Fork Mountain and Cave Mountain, Smoke Gap Canyon Recreation Space is a mecca for hikers, bikers, climbers, fishermen, paddlers, tubers, and campers alike. From a seemingly magical tubing part that doesn’t require a shuttle to difficult bike routes just like the North Fork Mountain Path that provide dramatic views from excessive above, this space is a must-see. 

Enter from Smoke Gap Street from State Route 220 in Pendleton County or from the north on State Route 55 from Grant County. When you’ve discovered this hidden gem, listed here are a few of the greatest methods to expertise Smoke Gap Canyon: Adventures in Smoke Gap Canyon

Mountaineering Spruce Knob, the Tallest Level in West Virginia

The right escape into West Virginia’s wilderness, Spruce Knob is the state’s highest peak at 4,863 toes above sea degree. The beautiful surroundings is made up of grassy openings, forested ridges, the websites and smells of crimson spruce timber, and blueberry and huckleberry vegetation abound. This shortly grew to become considered one of my favourite spots to loosen up and {photograph} nature. 

I like to recommend venturing to this space to anybody—not solely does it supply a number of trails for day hikes or backpacking, there are additionally easy-grade trails for these trying to merely take a stroll by way of nature. The Whispering Spruce Trail is a half-mile gravel path that loops across the Spruce Knob Tower and presents views of the encircling mountains, wind-blown rock formations, a thick spruce patch, and a area of blueberry vegetation and azalea bushes. 

For these searching for a backcountry expertise, there are practically 60 miles of trails that wind by way of thick forests that provide shade within the summertime and sensible colours within the fall. There are additionally two close by campgrounds at Spruce Knob Lake and Gatewood Campground.   

Climbing the By way of Ferrata 

You can be hard-pressed to seek out something fairly as spectacular because the By way of Ferrata in not solely our area however in your complete nation. Italian for “by the use of iron” the By way of Ferrata is a hard and fast system of metal rungs and cables that enables climbers to journey up and over two towering rock fins with the assistance of an expert NROCKS information. I had heard from many who the views have been superb, however as soon as I made it over that first fin, any expectations I had have been instantly exceeded. 

That is no stroll within the park—you undoubtedly must work whereas transferring from one part to the following throughout this three-and-a-half to five-hour climb, however it’s past price it. You achieve 1085 toes in elevation as you go, cross a suspension bridge that towers over full-grown timber, and attain uncovered heights of 280 toes.  

NROCKS additionally presents varied top-rope climbing journeys for many who need to attempt their hand at taking over pure rock. In addition they supply exhilarating zipline experiences by way of the North Fork Valley together with wild caving excursions. 

Tubing and Paddling the Potomac River

From splashy white water rapids to simple river floats, there are various methods to get on the water in Grant County. I reached out to Water’s Edge Outfitters for a guided stand-up paddleboard float down a category I part of the Potomac River. They provide all issues river, from leases and shuttle companies to guided fishing and paddling journeys. We put in at their non-public boat launch simply west of downtown Petersburg and floated all the way down to Oldfields Bridge River Entry level after taking in views of dramatic canyon partitions, bald eagle nests, and serene sections of river excellent for leaping in for a swim.

The North Fork of the South Department of the Potomac, Hopeville Canyon, presents a 4 to five-mile class III run that gives views of the cliffs of North Fork Mountain. There are additionally close by lakes, like South Mille Creek Lake and Spruce Knob Lake, that provide accessible and delightful flatwater paddling. 

The Metropolis of Petersburg

In between all of those adventures, I loved heading again into city to discover a few of the native outlets and eating places. One among my favourite locations to seize a espresso and a snack was at The Grove Cafe and Bakery. Different native favorites embody Cheetah B’s beautiful All-American informal eating, Twisted Pig BBQ and cajun delicacies, Household Traditions healthful old style cooking, and Bambino’s Pizza & Italian Restaurant for if you get a yearning for pasta.

Although there are many improbable tenting choices within the space, I selected to deal with myself to a keep on the newly renovated Hermitage Inn and Faucet Home. In-built 1841 and transformed to a resort in 1881, The Hermitage is without doubt one of the oldest properties in Petersburg, West Virginia. After a neighborhood household purchased the property in 2021, the resort has been upgraded to the attractive and comfy inn that it’s immediately with its wealthy historical past preserved by way of using authentic doorways, supplies, and design all through the buildings. 

Open to the general public and only a few toes from the rooms, the Hermitage Inn’s Faucet Home grew to become my go-to for dinner. That includes an upscale-casual menu sourced with recent, native elements, I couldn’t think about a greater place to unwind after a day of exploring Grant County.  

Different Close by Gems

• Blackwater Falls State Park
  • 20 miles of mountain climbing trails, an unbelievable view of the 63-foot waterfall, a enjoyable downtown space, and countless methods to get outdoors and discover. 
• Snowshoe Mountain Resort
  • With no low season, Snowshoe presents countless outside journey from 251 of skiable terrain, an thrilling downhill bike park, and music and sporting occasions occurring all yr spherical. 
• Reed’s Creek Climbing 
  • A small however enjoyable sport climbing space with limestone cliffs and moderate-level climbs between Franklin and Petersburg. 
• White Grass Ski Touring Heart
  • Regionally owned and operated, this charming cross-country ski touring middle has countless trails, leases, classes, warming huts, and a backcountry ski specialty store.
• Dolly Sods
  • Large rock formations, stunning hikes which can be nice for household and pets, and unbelievable views. Simply do it, belief me. 
• Canaan Valley Nationwide Wildlife Refuge
  • The five hundredth Nationwide Wildlife Refuge ever established within the nation. The refuge encompasses practically 17,000 acres preserving wetlands and better elevation uplands of the Allegheny Mountains. Great spot to take the household out in nature. 

Sponsored Content material by: Shannon McGowan of Blue Ridge Outdoor Journal.

All Photographs and Video by Shannon McGowan