Fifteen Ways to Play

By Amy Arnett

In honor of our 15th anniversary as a magazine, here at West Virginia Executive, we are compiling some fun 15 lists. In the spirit of summer, we have found 15 outdoor sports and activities around the state that are worth checking out. Beautiful Mountain State weather—and this list at your fingertips—means it’s time to get out and play.

1. Rock Climbing & Propelling

West Virginia has a large supply of natural rock formations that are great for rock climbing and propelling enthusiasts. There are also plenty of rock climbing walls where beginners can get into the swing of things before attempting the real thing.

2. Fishing

Fishing is a classic West Virginia pastime that is exciting for all ages. With bodies of water from creeks to lakes and everything in between, a day outdoors on the water is a possibility that is never too far away.

3. Geocaching

Geocaching is a trend that is popping up all over the state. A real-life treasure hunt, geocaching uses GPS devices to find hidden containers in the great outdoors, providing a fun, free and family-friendly activity perfect for summer.

4. Zip Lining

Zip lining hot spots have been appearing all over the state. With so many zip lining options, one is likely located close to home and offers a thrilling new view of our state’s forest scenery.

5. Water Sports – Whitewater Rafting/Boating/Kayaking/Canoeing/Scuba Diving

With more than 250 lakes alone located in West Virginia, water sports are a refreshing option for summertime fun. Whether it’s an exhilarating trip down white water rapids or a peaceful canoe ride, water sports are accessible and affordable activities.

6. Skydiving & Bungee Jumping

For real thrill-seekers, West Virginia offers a variety of extreme sports, including skydiving and bungee jumping to get the adrenaline pumping.

7. Mountain Biking

They don’t call this the Mountain State for nothing. West Virginia has thousands of trails that are great for biking. If you’re an expert, there are endless new trails to blaze in our hills as well.

8. Canopy Tours/Ropes Courses

Aerial adventures are sweeping the nation, and West Virginia has become a leader in taking advantage of the opportunity. With canopy tours and ropes courses located throughout the state, tourists and local residents alike can have high-flying fun and take in amazing views of the Mountain State.

9. Bird-watching

Bird-watching may not seem like something to get your blood pumping, but expert bird-watchers will tell you: admiring the diverse wildlife and exploring natural scenery in the process can be one of this state’s most underappreciated adventures.

10. ATV/UTV/Motorcycle Trails

With thousands of rural miles of paths available, riding an ATV, UTV or motorcycle is an activity for which West Virginia is perfectly-suited.

11. Hot air balloon rides

Want a new perspective and a day to remember? Hot air balloons lift above our beautiful state, providing views that will leave you breathless without the fast-paced elements of skydiving.

12. Paint Ball

Paint ball is a great way to get a little dirty and get in touch with your inner warrior. With paint ball courses to suit amateurs and experts alike, paint ball provides recreation that will make you feel like a kid again.

13. Caving

Take a look under the surface of our state: go caving. Spelunking is an exciting, underground way to spend the day. Not to be missed, West Virginia’s cave systems provide a rare glance into a new world.

14. Skiing/Snowboarding/Snowmobiling/Tubing

Summertime isn’t the only time you can play in our state. When the snow falls, there are still plenty of places that cater to outdoor activities. The Mountain State is a great place to participate in winter sports as well, keeping the active lifestyle going all year long.

15. Sled Rides

Another winter time activity, West Virginia also offers sled rides. Being pulled through snow by sled dogs may seem like an experience left to storybooks, but here, there are several places where it can become a reality.