Curator’s statement
West Virginia is wild and wonderful—and not just in marketing slogans. With winding roads, pristine forests, the Appalachian Mountains, and towns seemingly frozen in time, this state offers one of the most honest, raw glimpses into the American landscape. There’s a magic to this region that’s best experienced unplugged. No constant notifications, no endless scrolling—just walks in the woods, stories by the fire, and yes, pepperoni rolls from a gas station bakery that will change your life. (You’ll know them when you see them.) This 5-day itinerary is built for families who want nature, charm, history, and a little local insight—using The Greenbrier and Snowshoe Mountain Resort as home bases.
The Fora Difference
Book with Gloria to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
Unlock perks by contacting Gloria to book your trip.
Day 1: Arrive in White Sulphur Springs & The Greenbrier experience
Courtesy of Greenbrier Resort
I used to live in one of these remote places—Green Bank, home to the world’s largest steerable radio telescope and one of the only federally protected radio-free zones. I moved there from Aruba, a tropical island paradise, and came to love crisp fall days, fire-colored forests, and the deep quiet that settles over the mountains. West Virginia holds some of my most meaningful memories, and I’ve created this guide to share the places that are worth slowing down for.
Arrival
Arrive via train at White Sulphur Springs, where you’ll be greeted by the rolling hills of the Allegheny Mountains.
Check in at The Greenbrier, a luxury resort known for its mineral springs, timeless elegance, and Southern hospitality.
Suggested activities
Relax in the natural mineral springs or schedule a full spa experience.
Enjoy fine dining at the resort’s historic restaurants.
Golf one of the championship courses.
Take a horseback ride through the estate’s forested trails.
Explore nearby Civil War landmarks if you’re feeling curious.
This is your time to unwind and settle into West Virginia’s slower rhythm.
Overnight: The Greenbrier Resort
Day 2: Scenic drive to Snowshoe & underground wonders
Fall colors in full bloom down country roads.
After a restful morning and perhaps one last spa treatment, begin your 2.5–3-hour drive toward Snowshoe Mountain Resort. But before you head fully into the mountains, take a detour to experience West Virginia beneath the surface.
Choose one of the following:
Seneca Caverns (via Riverton): A stunning series of underground chambers filled with stalactites and flowstone. Ideal for families or those seeking natural wonder.
Organ Cave (near Lewisburg): A registered National Natural Landmark with Civil War history and prehistoric fossils. A good pick if you’re starting closer to The Greenbrier.
After your cavern tour, continue toward Snowshoe, arriving by late afternoon. Settle into your lodge or cabin, take a gentle walk around the pedestrian village, or enjoy a fireside drink to close out the day.
Overnight: Snowshoe Mountain Resort
Day 3: Mountain adventure & fall activities
My dad catching an absolute monster near Seneca Lake.
Snowshoe adapts beautifully to the seasons, and fall brings a mix of vibrant foliage, outdoor adventure, and cozy corners.
Suggested activities
Mountain biking (bike rentals available for all skill levels).
Visit CW’s Corn Maze down the mountain—perfect for a fun, seasonal touch.
Ride the scenic chair lift for sweeping autumn views.
Play a round at Raven Golf Club, just below the mountain.
Prefer a slower pace? Enjoy a lake day.
Rent a canoe or kayak at Snowshoe Lake.
Go fishing for world-class trout.
Have a fall picnic by the water.
In the evening, unwind with a hearty mountain meal—don’t miss the local trout, a West Virginia staple.
Overnight: Snowshoe Mountain Resort
Day 4: Cass Railroad, Fort Warwick & Green Bank Telescope
The quietest town on earth, the view from my dear friend’s ranch in Greenbank.
Today blends heritage, science, and personal storytelling with a journey through some of Eastern West Virginia’s most fascinating cultural sites.
Morning: Cass Scenic Railroad State Park
Start with a ride on a historic steam-powered locomotive that climbs deep into old timber country. You’ll pass through thick forest, switchbacks, and historic company towns that feel like a movie set.
Midday: Fort Warwick (near Green Bank)
Make a stop at Fort Warwick, a truly special place that’s close to my heart. This historic Civil War fort was discovered and brought to public attention by Elaine Sheets and her family, who still live on and care for the land. They’ve preserved the site so others can experience this quiet, powerful glimpse into the past.
A visit here isn’t just a history lesson—it’s a connection to people who have lived and loved this land for generations.
Afternoon: Green Bank Observatory
Finish the day at Green Bank, home to the world’s largest fully steerable radio telescope. I lived next to this incredible structure for seven years, and I can tell you there’s nothing quite like it. Because it sits in a federally protected radio-quiet zone, there’s no Wi-Fi, no cell towers, and a silence that’s hard to describe until you feel it.
Also: The visitor center used to serve an incredible brownie, which I still think about. It’s gone now, but the astronaut ice cream is still available and worth a try for the novelty.
Evening
Return to Snowshoe and enjoy a slow evening—perhaps with a final canoe ride or a relaxing dinner by the fireplace.
Overnight: Snowshoe Mountain Resort
Day 5: Lakeside leisure & departure
Dad taking us out on the lake—just a ski lift from the village on Snowshoe.
On your final day, take things slow.
Morning options
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast with mountain views.
Take a final paddle across the lake.
Go on a short fall foliage hike near the resort.
Departure
If you’re departing via White Sulphur Springs station, allow 2.5 to 3 hours for the drive back.
Consider stopping along the way for pepperoni rolls, apple butter, cider, or handmade crafts to bring a piece of West Virginia home with you.
Need to know
This guide is dedicated to my dad—
who moved our family to the mountains of West Virginia not for himself,
but to give my sister and me a childhood rooted in nature, curiosity, and adventure.
He was the biggest adventure of them all—
a storyteller, a wanderer, a teacher without trying.
He didn’t just show us the world;
he showed us how to be in it.
To get excited by the thunder, not fear it.
To move through the world without needing to conquer it.
To be so still that even the deer didn’t run.
To live by his favorite quote:
“Don’t fear anything but fear itself.”
It’s from him that I learned to pause, to observe,
and to carry that same wide-eyed wonder with me—
no matter where in the world I am now.
This is the kind of trip that doesn’t need Wi-Fi to keep you connected.
Between the steam trains and trout streams, mineral spas and mountain trails,
you’ll find space to slow down, share stories, and make new ones.
Whether you’re coming for the foliage, the fishing,
or just to try a pepperoni roll and get off the grid for a few days—
Eastern West Virginia is ready to surprise you.
Travel Advisor
Gloria Elwood
Get in touch with Gloria
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can expect a response from Gloria within 1–2 business days. You’ll also be subscribed to our traveler newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our West Virginia page.