Looking for a great destination for a fun-filled weekend this winter? The Mountain State has everything you could want inside and outside. Pay a visit to Coopers Rock State Forest for trips to the botanical garden, the chance to glimpse incredible wildlife, and finish off the day in a cozy cabin. Don’t let the colder weather slow you down.
Coopers Rock State Forest near Morgantown is the perfect winter destination for fun, adventure and time away. Located near Morgantown, West Virginia not far from the Pennsylvania border, you’re not far from lodging, lakes, great restaurants, and other activities that can be enjoyed even on the snowiest days. There are 14 geocache sites in the part, and plenty of winter activities nearby.
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Offering year-round opportunities to camp, set your RV, or stay in a cozy cabin, Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground is the ideal place for a winter weekend getaway for folks who love being outdoors. There are so many things to do in this county-owned park. Klaer Lodge has room for up to 20 overnight guests and has a fully equipped kitchen. The lodge has a fireplace and wood stove, but also has propane furnaces upstairs. Bring your own linens and food. Pyles Cabin sleeps up to nine and Casey Cabin can accommodate up to five people. Both cabins have the same amenities as Klaer Lodge.
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Located near Cheat Lake and not far from Morgantown, the West Virginia Botanical Garden is like no other garden you’ve seen. Open year-round, there are indoor and outdoor educational exhibits that show visitors about the variety of plants that grow in the Appalachian Mountains. You’ll come away with a more knowledge and a great appreciation of the beauty that surrounds you in the Mountain State.
Dedicated to preserving an area in the state for licensed hunters, Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area (SHWMA) is a primitive area with unmaintained trails, but most people love the area. There are no water sources or public toilets, and hikers, skiers, and climbers often frequent the region. If you love the idea of exploring SHWMA, it’s advisable to check the hunting season dates which usually last for a couple weeks around Thanksgiving. The website also gives directions, trail descriptions, suggestions, and weather conditions for skiing.
An awesome place to start your day or end it after a great day outdoors is the Blue Moose Café. They have a great selection of organic and flavored coffees, hot cocoa, and hot specialty beverages. Browse through this fun and quirky coffeehouse to see the local art exhibits, listen to book readings, join in with the groups for karaoke, and enjoy other live music events. Check out their website for a calendar of events when you’re planning your trip.
Before starting off on your weekend adventure, grab some delicious freshly made scones, pepperoni rolls, or other yummy baked goods to take with you for a quick and filling snack. This amazing artisan bakery serves traditional hearth-style baked goods made to perfection to eat in or take out.
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Love the outdoors no matter what season it is? Then you have to take a hike at White Park, a 170-acre park with miles upon miles of wooded trails and winter fun. This recreational park is operated by the City of Morgantown and has an ice rink, baseball fields, and a mountain bike path, amongst others. Open year round. There’s a hidden gem of a waterfall on the trail that’s great for those photo lovers.
Home of the great pub grub, specialty cocktails, and West Virginia craft beer, Iron Horse Tavern should not be missed on your weekend getaway. Whether you’re stopping for a leisurely lunch or celebrating the end of a great day, there are daily drink specials. Bring your friends or make new ones.
No adventure would be complete without taking home a memento to remember the trip. Appalachian Gallery is filled with beautiful crafts, handblown glass, jewelry, pottery, woodworking, books, and original art made by talented West Virginia artists. There’s something for everyone!
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