1. Introduction: Discover why the Appalachian Mountains are a must-visit this year.
2. West Virginia: Explore the stunning outdoor activities in the Mountain State.
3. Allegany County, Maryland: Experience biking trails and scenic views.
4. High Country, North Carolina: Enjoy summer activities in picturesque towns.
5. The Kentucky Wildlands: Adventure through historical parks and trails.
6. Ulster and Dutchess Counties, New York: Engage in local recreation and cultural events in scenic counties.
7. The Berkshires, Massachusetts: Experience natural beauty and cultural scenes in New England.
Let’s quickly get this out of the way. Yes, you should plan a trip to the Appalachian mountains this year.
Millions of people from across the globe visit the Appalachian Mountains each year. Sandra Marra, president and CEO of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, shared insights about the region’s appeal. “These ancient mountains contain some of the world’s best recreational experiences and awe-inspiring conservation areas, including the 2,194-mile Appalachian Trail we are so fortunate to manage and protect. Hundreds of historic towns and destinations are found throughout the region, providing gateways for people to explore these landscapes for just a day or even months on end—and to help protect them for a lifetime.”
Moreover, with many of America’s largest cities a short drive away, the Appalachians are accessible for millions of vacationers. However, there’s more to this stretch of America than the famed trail running through it. Here are a few select regions and destinations to experience in the Appalachian Mountains this year.
West Virginia
The aptly named Mountain State features breathtaking landscapes. The state boasts enchanting whistle-stops, uncrowded parks, and cinematic vistas. You can hike, bike, rock climb, whitewater raft, or picnic at parks like the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve and Harpers Ferry Historical National Park. Landmark locales such as Seneca Rocks and Dolly Sods Wilderness are also worth visiting, both located in the Monongahela National Forest.
For your West Virginian escape, make Adventures on the Gorge near Fayetteville your base camp. The resort offers various lodging options, including deluxe cabins, glamping sites, rustic cabins, and campgrounds. Consequently, be sure to savor West Virginia’s Appalachian cuisine, where fresh food reigns supreme, thanks to the state boasting the highest percentage of family-owned farms in the nation.
Allegany County, Maryland
Cyclists, grab your helmets and get ready to pedal. Make Frostburg, Maryland, in Allegany County, the “Mountain Side of Maryland,” your base. The idyllic town of around 8,550 residents gives biking and hiking enthusiasts easy access to the Great Allegany Passage (a.k.a. Gap Trail), which connects Cumberland, Maryland, to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
If you prefer to ditch your hiking boots or bike, the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad’s excursion train travels from Cumberland to Frostburg. For a unique activity, consider Tracks and Yaks’ new rail bike outing on custom-made two- or four-person rail bikes, where you embark on a guided journey from the Frostburg Depot to Cash Valley.
Moreover, to soak up the local culture, time your visit around the annual Appalachian Festival in September at Frostburg University, featuring films, concerts, dance, storytelling, and more.
Since Allegany County is outdoor-oriented, summer is particularly welcome, given the extra hours of daylight. When you venture to the GAP Trail, visit Green Ridge State Forest, which boasts around 80 miles of developed hiking and biking trails. The Green Ridge State Forest Driving Tour is another excellent way to soak up the area’s beauty, including numerous trees and the Potomac River.
High Country, North Carolina
Located in the mountains of North Carolina, the High Country is brimming with fun in the summer and fall. The postcard-worthy small towns of Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, Blowing Rock, Boone, West Jefferson, and Sparta along the Blue Ridge Parkway offer distinct charms. While you’re there, be sure to visit Grandfather Mountain, where you’ll find rare plant species and stunning views. If you’re not afraid of heights, take a stroll across the Grandfather Mountain Mile High Bridge.
About 45 minutes away, check out Beech Mountain. Spend time floating on a tube along the New River with High Mountain Expeditions after staying at a vacation rental. If you’re interested in the Appalachian Trail, head to Roan Mountain, roughly 40 minutes from Grandfather Mountain.
The Kentucky Wildlands, Kentucky
The Kentucky Wildlands may not be a household name, but it should be. Plot your course from Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, a landmark in American colonial history. Then, swing by Pine Mountain State Resort Park to explore trails like the Chained Rock Trail.
Discover historical treasures like The Country Music Highway, which stretches from Ashland, Kentucky, to the Virginia border, the birthplace of numerous musical icons. After enjoying Kentucky’s lake season at Jenny Wiley State Resort Park, take a short drive to Prestonsburg to explore downtown and the Passage Rail Trail, which features a unique school bus bridge.
Ulster and Dutchess Counties, New York
New Yorkers have surprisingly easy access to the Appalachian Trail. Our most treasured picks are Ulster and Dutchess counties. Ulster County’s section features Mohonk Preserve and Sam’s Point Preserve. Late summer typically welcomes festivals like the Blueberry Festival in Ellenville.
For outdoor adventures, camp at the Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground, then walk or bike along the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, a picturesque 22-mile-long path.
Additionally, if exploration has you working up a sweat, cool off in local swimming holes like Split Rock Coxing Kill or Tillson Lake in Minnewaska State Park.
The Berkshires, Massachusetts
For those heading north to New England this summer, enjoy the warm weather in The Berkshires. Focus on state parks like Wahconah Falls State Park and hike the Appalachian Trail that weaves through the area. As the highest point in Massachusetts, Mount Greylock offers breathtaking views that span across several states.
In warmer months, the vistas at Mount Greylock are particularly stunning. The park boasts over 12,500 acres, featuring 50 miles of trails, including the A.T. For a cultural experience, visit MASS MoCA, a large contemporary art museum, and for accommodations, consider the Porches Inn at MASS MoCA or Tourists for a glamping experience.
