Welcome Spring!

Step into Spring in Mountaineer Country

Break out the Kayaks and Canoes

Do you remember that old kayak or canoe that’s been hanging in your garage for ages? It’s time to dust it off and take it out on the water. Here are a few of our suggestions: 

  • View the City of Morgantown from a different perspective by taking a float trip on the Monongahela River. There are various access points for a safe put-in, which include the Star City Riverfront Park or Van Voorhis access point at the end of Van Voorhis Road.
    • Want to connect with other paddlers for tips and join in gatherings, once it is safe to do so? Be sure to check out Morgantown Area Paddlers’ Facebook page for details!
  • Bring the family along for a relaxing trip on Big Sandy Creek, which is five miles of slow-moving water. No motorboats are allowed in this body of water, so no need to worry about the waves. There’s an easy-to-access put-in location where Padlz is located, which is just before the Bruceton Mills Dam. 
  • Make plans to float or fly on the Cheat River, known for its flatwater paddling to Class III, IV, and V whitewater rapids. The Cheat River is a water sports enthusiast’s paradise.
  • Head to the historic City of Grafton for a ten-mile trip down the Tygart River. Start by putting in your canoe or kayak at the Grafton City Park below the Tygart Dam and pull out before you reach Valley Falls State Park. Reminder, you must pull out of the water prior to reaching the falls, as it is extremely dangerous not to do so.
  • Looking for a little more excitement? Try any one of these white water rafting routes for memorable adventures.

Rails to Trails Biking

The Rail to Trail is the perfect place to go for a scenic cycling trip along the river. Whether you are a passionate athlete or a leisure cyclist, these trails will be open and ready for traffic as the temperature rises in Mountaineer Country. Check out a full list of trails and plan your next outing! Looking for a unique trail experience? Big Bear Lake Trail Center is the place for you! Plus, use their Mountaineer Deal to save on season passes. If you’re looking for a more intense mountain biking trip, check out our Mountain Biking in Mountaineer Country, WV blog to find some of the best spots!


Grab your Gear

In need of a new bike or equipment? Pathfinder of WV remains open and ready to serve the community with online orders and curbside pickup in Downtown Morgantown, a close distance to the trails. Check out their Mountaineer Deal, before shopping.

Whether you’re looking to fix up some old parts on your bike, upgrade, or replace, Wamsley Cycles has you covered! From new bikes to new equipment and clothing, you can find all of this and more at this one-stop-shop.

In need of running gear or guidance? Morgantown Running is here to help. Check out their online shop for delivery of apparel, shoes, and more. Feel free to reach out to their team of staff and ambassadors directly for suggestions.

 

Hiking at Tygart Lake State Park and Coopers Rock State Forest

Get outside, explore, and find your new favorite spot! Take some family pictures to remember your trip to local favorite spots like the iconic Coopers Rock Overlook. Grab your friends and family, or your four legged best friends, and take a hike at Coopers Rock State Forest. No matter what your hiking experience is, there are more than 20 trails to choose from. Don’t forget your camera!

Then, explore Tygart Lake’s surrounding woodlands at Tygart Lake State Park. The State Park offers five distinct trails, ranging in difficulty from light leisurely strolls to more moderate and challenging hikes.

Cast a Line at a Nearby Waterway

Cool spring and summer mornings are made for fishing in Mountaineer Country. Check out the nearby waterways like the Tygart Bywaters, Mason Lake, Big Sandy Creek, and Coopers Rock Lake, all of which are home to catfish, trout, bass, and other gamefish. Grab your favorite fishing pole and head to one of our region’s locations for a relaxing day on the water in the Almost Heaven outdoors. 

Find all you need to know about fishing permits in Mountaineer Country here.

In need of some supplies? McFly Outdoors in  Bridgeport has you covered. Check out their online shop for gear, supplies, and more for pickup. Check out their Mountaineer Deal. Or, head to staples like Dunham’s Sports, Bass Pro Shop, and Sportsman’s Warehouse for your fishing gear fix.

Relax in the Gardens

Take a break from the hot summer rays, and embark on a hike through forest paths and foliage. The West Virginia Botanic Garden is open to the public, offering multiple walking and hiking paths as well as community events. Start your Saturday mornings with instructor-led group yoga in the garden, or go on a scavenger hunt for the different types of flowers and trees. 

It’s not too late to start your own home garden! Pre-order flowers, bushes, herbs, and more from Modern Homestead at Tathams. Unsure where to start with planting or landscaping? Check out their Facebook page for videos involving tips from the professionals, Lucas and Trellis Smith!

Searching for a one-of-a-kind flower arrangement? Check out Mayfield Farms for beautiful springtime picks.



Pair your flower arrangement with tasty and elegant charcuterie from Baker Cheese Company for the perfect spring day picnic. Save money when you use Baker Cheese Company’s Mountaineer Deal.

Bonus tip: Take a tour around West Virginia University’s campus to view the springtime blooms.

Support Your Local Growers and Small Businesses

Don’t forget to check out Mountaineer Country’s Farmers Markets to stock up on fresh, locally grown produce and other spring and summer goods.

Having fun in the sun? Share your Mountaineer Country Spring moments with us on social using #VisitMountaineerCountry and tagging @VisitMountaineerCountry on Facebook and Instagram.

Plan a Spring Family Photoshoot

Grab a new spring outfit from Latch Boutique and get 10% off using our Deal, The Cutting Room Boutique, or Graceful Glamour Boutique, and plan a spring photo shoot with Studio C Photography! Create memories that last a lifetime.

Catch a Baseball Game!

Head to Monongalia County Ballpark all spring and summer to watch the WVU Baseball team and Mountaineer Country’s very on Minor League Baseball team, the West Virginia Black Bears!

 

We would love to see what you choose to do this season around Mountaineer Country! Share your adventures with us by tagging @VisitMountaineerCountry on Instagram and Facebook or using the hashtag #VisitMountaineerCountry!


Interested in attending more than one event this weekend? Stay overnight at one of the many hotels and lodgings in Morgantown. Click to reserve your stay.