There’s a lot more to West Virginia than the mountains which give the state its nickname. Whether you’re a sports fanatic, railroad enthusiast or science buff, you will find plenty to do in the Mountain State. True, you’ll have to do some mountain driving to reach many of these spots, but the rewards are well worth your time. Here are our top picks for West Virginia sightseeing.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Harpers Ferry, where the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers meet, was the setting for John Brown’s ill-fated slave uprising in 1859. During the Civil War, Harpers Ferry changed hands several times and was the site of General Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson’s Confederate victory in 1862. Today, this picturesque old town is a National Historical Park, complete with museums, hiking trails and a truly spectacular view of the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. Harpers Ferry is also a great place to go rafting.

Seneca Rocks

Seneca Rocks, a jagged rock formation in Pendleton County, West Virginia, attracts hikers, photographers and sightseers from around the country. They come for the sights – rocks soaring into a blue sky, birds wheeling above the green valley – as well as for the trails and for the natural beauty of the North Fork Valley. Bring your GPS and check out the geocache at the top of Seneca Rocks.

Scenic Railroad Excursions

West Virginia’s scenic railroads travel through some of the most beautiful parts of the Mountain State. Whether you take a railroad trip on a warm summer day or ride the rails to see spectacular fall colors, you will come away with an appreciation for the mighty locomotives as well as for West Virginia’s mountain vistas. It’s recommended to plan your journey on the Cass Scenic Railroad, Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad, Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad, or, for a real treat, the New River Train, which operates only four times per year. Consequently, planning ahead is essential, especially during autumn when trips tend to fill up quickly.

The Greenbrier

West Virginia’s most famous hotel, which opened in 1778, has a fabled history. The Greenbrier has played host to presidents, tycoons, and stars. Moreover, the hotel has also served as a military hospital during the Civil War and World War II and as an emergency bunker for the Cold War Congress. Today, visitors travel to The Greenbrier to play golf, enjoy the hotel’s renowned spa, and relax in the tranquility of West Virginia’s forested mountains.

National Radio Astronomy Observatory Green Bank

In a lush green Pocahontas County valley, you can experience cutting-edge astronomy. The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) in Green Bank, West Virginia is home to the largest fully-steerable radio telescope on Earth, the Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope. Take a bus tour of the valley and see the many radio telescopes. Afterward, visit NRAO Green Bank’s on-site museum to learn more about the astronomy research that is currently happening at the NRAO.

Outdoor Adventures

West Virginia’s mountains and rivers are not just scenic destinations; they are also home to many outdoor recreational adventures. Whitewater rafting, hiking, and walking are popular summertime activities, while skiing and snow sports dominate the winter calendar. Take a scenic drive at any time of year; you will be rewarded with beautiful views and a close-up look at the natural beauty of the Mountain State.

Hunting and Fishing

West Virginia’s fantastic hunting and fishing opportunities attract sportsmen from near and far. If you enjoy fishing or hunting, consider spending a weekend – or more – in West Virginia. Remember to buy your hunting or fishing license before heading into the wilderness.

New River Gorge National River

The New River Gorge National River, part of the US National Park system, attracts over one million visitors each year. The park, which encompasses a 50-plus mile stretch of the New River, preserves some of West Virginia’s best-known landmarks and viewpoints, including the Great Bend Tunnel, where legendary steel driver John Henry faced off against a steam-powered machine, and the New River Bridge, which measures over 3,000 feet long and 876 feet high. At New River Gorge National River, you can walk, hike, paddle, raft, camp, and explore the region’s compelling coal mining heritage. Every October, the park hosts Bridge Day; BASE jumpers and rappellers gather on the bridge and leap, climb, and even zip line to the river below – 876 feet.