West Virginia
"Montani semper liberi"
Nickname
Mountain State
Capital
Charleston
Statehood
June 20, 1863 (35th)
Motto
Montani semper liberi
Explore West Virginia
18 of 18 articles available
Top mountains
Signature peaks and elevation highlights.
Best hikes
Trail ideas from day hikes to overnighters.
State parks
Must-see parks and natural areas.
Road trip loops
Weekend-friendly scenic drives.
Waterfronts
Lakes, rivers, and coastal stops to visit.
Waterfalls & springs
Cool-down spots and photogenic falls.
Scenic overlooks
Pull-offs and vistas for quick views.
Camping spots
Easy campgrounds and dispersed sites.
Historic towns
Main streets, museums, and landmarks.
Family weekends
Low-stress itineraries with kids in mind.
Top universities
Best-known universities and colleges.
Top biggest cities
Largest metros and fast-growing hubs.
Top places to visit
Must-see destinations and attractions.
Top high schools
High-performing public and private schools.
Top cities
Beloved cities for living and visiting.
Basic information
Quick facts, nickname, capital, and region.
Geography
Landscapes, neighbors, and natural regions.
Economy
Key industries, employers, and growth drivers.
About West Virginia
West Virginia is the only state formed entirely by breaking away from another state during the Civil War, when northwestern Virginia counties refused to join the Confederacy — a founding act that still shapes the state's independent, Appalachian identity. It's also the only U.S. state located completely within the Appalachian Mountains, with no flat interior at all.
Below, the guides cover that mountainous terrain directly, from coal-era river towns to the whitewater gorges now driving the state's outdoor-tourism economy.