Recreation Activities available in Beckley-Raleigh County

Raleigh County lies in the heart of a recreational wonderland yet to be discovered by most Americans. Folks who live here enjoy quiet forests, roaring rivers, and scenic trails just outside their backdoors.

Fishing

Wherever you turn, scenic lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams provide for diverse angling. Common catch is trout, bass, bluegill, muskie, catfish, and walleye.

Rock Climbing

Each year, thousands of climbers visit the monolithic cliffs that line the edges of the New River Gorge. Lesser known formations are being developed throughout the county.

Skiing

Winterplace Ski Resort cascades down Flat Top Mountain on the county's high southern edge. Two minutes off Interstate 77, the resort is one of the most accessible to southern markets. At 3,865 feet above sea level, its 27 trails are covered most of the winter. Vacation housing is a growing industry around the resort.

Kayaking

Thousands of kayakers challenge the region's streams and rivers each year. Many enthusiasts now live in the area year-round, working as whitewater rafting guides in the national parks during summer.

Whitewater Rafting

Thousands of tourists visit southern West Virginia each year to challenge the whitewater of the New, Gauley, and Greenbrier rivers. Numerous guide companies operate on the rivers.

Biking

Off road or on, West Virginia is the East's premier biking destination. Experts compare it to Utah, the nation's top bike tourist region. A state trail system is in development.

Golf

Lovers of the links are within an hour of 17 courses, including three at the world-famous Greenbrier. Five world-class courses grace Raleigh County.

Hunting

Hunting is a way of life here, so facilities are advanced and cabins are found throughout the area. Game include black bear, turkey, whitetail deer, squirrel, grouse, bobwhite, cottontail rabbit, mink, fisher, beaver, bobcat, woodchuck, weasel, and red and grey fox.

Hiking

More than 80 percent of the county is forested, of which the National Park Service maintains 12 major trails. Little Beaver State Park offers four. Thousands more cross the county.

Caving

Only a half-hour west of one of the largest limestone regions in the east, many spelunkers make their home near caverns in Raleigh County.