Road Trip in West Virginia

So, you've decided to take a West Virginia road trip? There are a few things to consider before putting your car in drive—such as whether you're legally allowed to drive in the state, the state's traffic rules, navigating major roadways, and which amazing travel destinations you plan to visit!

Sound like a lot to take in? Don't worry; we explain it all below.

Driving in West Virginia

West Virginia allows nonresidents who are at least 16 years old to drive for 90 days within 1 year, as long as you have a valid driver's license from your home state.

However, if your state has its own GDL process and you haven't quite made it to the “unsupervised" license yet, it's best to contact the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to find out how your current license translates to WV DMV requirements.

WV State Traffic Rules

Before you set out on the road, make sure you're aware of the local road rules.

The West Virginia driver's manual provides important information for planning your road trip, such as:

• Traffic laws and rules of the road.
• Driving on interstates.
• Emergency situations.

Additionally, you can check out our guide to West Virginia's safety laws to brush up on requirements regarding, seat belts, cell phones, car seats, and more.

Major WV Roads

In West Virginia, seemingly all roads lead to Charleston. Some of the major roadways in the state include:

• West Virginia Turnpike.
  • Made up of Interstates 64 and 77 the turnpike connects the western portion of the state with Charleston.
• Interstate 77.
  • Connects the northern parts of VW with the state capital.
• US Route 35.
• Comes from Indiana, cuts through Ohio, and leads right into Charleston.
• US Route 60.
  • Connects the Southwest (starting in Arizona) to the east coast by way of West Virginia.

West Virginia Road Trip Destinations

The Great Outdoors

West Virginia is extremely well known for its whitewater rafting, hiking and rock climbing, mountain biking, skiing, and other winter sports, as well as camping in various national monuments, trails, and state parks.

As such, the outdoorsy among your group will revel in the New River Gorge. Aside from the array of outdoor activities the national river offers, it's home to the New River Gorge Bridge, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is home to Bridge Day, one of the largest and most extreme sporting events in the world.

West Virginia History

History buffs can check out tours of the Bunker at the Greenbrier, a once top secret U.S. government fallout shelter carved deep into the mountains and nestled beneath the famous Greenbrier, a luxury resort that's hosted everyone from U.S. presidents to global royalty.

Local Culture

Naturally, the state offers an array of dining, entertainment, and shopping options in various locations—from quaint West Virginia towns like Lewisburg and Summersville to larger cities like Morgantown, Huntington, and the state's capital, Charleston.

Art lovers are going to want to stop by the Certified Arts Towns of:

• Elkins.
• Wheeling.
• Lewisburg.
• Berkeley Springs.

Of course, these are just a few of the numerous road trip destinations the state has to offer. The state's GoToWV website is a great place to learn more about activities and sights to see you can plan for your West Virginia road trip—it even offers a complete Trip Planner to help get you started if you're unfamiliar with the state.