Lost River State Park
Easy or strenuous hikes are included on the map you can obtain at the Park Office. Our favorite is a three-hour hike to Cranny Crow Overlook for unbeatable views. Making the trip by horseback from the stables in the park is a nice way to get to the summit too.

Canoeing on the South Branch of the North Fork of the Potomac River
Don't let images of the Potomac River water around DC discourage you from trekking out on this trip. The water is clean and clear here. Several companies provide canoeing services out of nearby Moorefield, but our favorite is offered by the Trough General Store (visit their website from the 'Local Links' page). Their advantage is that you end your trip back at your car and don't have to hurry down the river for a scheduled pick-up.

Dolly Sods
Let your inner ecologist experience the fascinating microclimates of Dolly Sods in the Monongahela National Forest. The region has a rich natural history you won't believe including exstinct giant redwoods that once covered the area. The remaining rocky outcroppings and vistas will make you think you're in the Arctic tundra.

Trout Pond State Park
This is one of the most convenient options for recreation outside of The Guest House. The park is home to West Virginia's largest natural body of water, and all of it could fit inside Dupont Circle. A few hundred yards away is Rock Cliff Lake that features a small sandy beach for folks who like to swim with the fishes.

What Lies Beneath
West Virginia has an enormous number of caverns that spelunkers love. (In fact, that's how Lost River gets its name. Several miles north east of the Guest House the river disappears into a cavern and is named the Cacapon River when it resurfaces.) Not ready for hard hats, harnesses, and pitch black? Neither are we. Check out Smoke Hole Caverns or Luray Caverns instead.

Local Links
For more ideas of other adventures on your way to or from Lost River, visit our "Local Links" page. read more»