West Virginia is located in the Appalachian region of the United States. It borders Virginia and Kentucky to the south, Ohio to the northwest, Pennsylvania to the northeast, and Maryland to the east. The state is also bordered by Washington D.C., making it one of only two states that border a capital district. According to citypopulationreview, West Virginia has an area of 24,230 square miles, making it the 41st largest state in terms of area. It is divided into 55 counties and has a population of 1.79 million people as of 2019.
The terrain of West Virginia is mostly made up of rugged mountains and rolling hills. The highest point in West Virginia is Spruce Knob at 4,863 ft (1,482 m) above sea level which makes it the highest peak in the Appalachian Mountains range. The lowest point in West Virginia is along its western border with Ohio at just 560 feet (171 m) above sea level. The climate in West Virginia can be classified as humid continental with cold winters and hot summers.
West Virginia’s economy relies heavily on its natural resources such as coal mining, timbering, natural gas production and tourism. In recent years, there has been an increase in technology-based companies such as software development firms due to its proximity to Washington D.C., Baltimore and Pittsburgh which have large technology hubs. It also has a growing medical sector due to its close proximity to large medical centers like Johns Hopkins University Hospital in Baltimore and University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center in Ohio which are both within driving distance from most cities within West Virginia’s borders.
According to countryaah, the top cities in West Virginia include Charleston, Huntington, Parkersburg, Wheeling, Morgantown and Weirton. Charleston is the capital and largest city of the state. It is home to many historic sites such as the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences, Capitol Market and the State Capitol Complex. Huntington is a city with a rich history in transportation, industry and education. It has a number of attractions such as Camden Park amusement park, Heritage Station shopping district and the Marshall University campus. Parkersburg is located on the Ohio River and offers visitors plenty of outdoor activities like hiking trails, fishing spots and kayaking opportunities. Wheeling is known for its historic downtown district which features several museums, galleries and shops. Morgantown is home to West Virginia University where students from all over come to study its renowned programs. Finally Weirton stands out for its vibrant steel industry which has been an important part of its economy for many years.
Weather in West Virginia
West Virginia experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers in West Virginia are typically hot and humid with temperatures reaching an average of 80 degrees Fahrenheit (26.7 degrees Celsius). The humidity levels during the summer months can make it feel much hotter than the actual temperature. Winters in West Virginia are cold and snowy with temperatures averaging around 33 degrees Fahrenheit (0.6 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common throughout the winter season and can range from light to heavy depending on the year.
Spring is generally mild in West Virginia with temperatures ranging from 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit (10-21 degrees Celsius). Rain showers are common throughout this season and can range from light to heavy depending on the area. Fall is also mild with temperatures ranging from 40-60 degrees Fahrenheit (4-15 degrees Celsius). This season is usually dry, but rain showers are not uncommon during this time of year.
West Virginia experiences all types of severe weather such as severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, floods, ice storms, snowstorms, and wind storms. Severe thunderstorms occur most often during the spring and summer months while tornadoes are more common during late spring and early summer months. Flooding is a risk anytime there has been heavy rainfall or snowmelt that causes rivers or streams to overflow their banks. Ice storms occur more frequently during winter months when freezing rain accumulates on trees and power lines causing them to break under the weight of the ice buildup. Snowstorms can happen any time during winter months when cold air meets moist air resulting in heavy snowfall accumulations over a short period of time. Wind storms occur primarily in fall and winter months when strong winds blow through an area causing damage due to downed trees or other debris being blown around by high winds.
Major Landmarks in West Virginia
West Virginia is home to a variety of natural and man-made landmarks that attract visitors from all over the world. One of the most popular of these is the New River Gorge Bridge, which spans 3,030 feet across the New River Gorge and stands 876 feet above the river below. This bridge is one of the longest steel arch bridges in the world and is a popular spot for bungee jumping and white water rafting. Another popular destination in West Virginia is Blackwater Falls State Park, home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the state. The park also features numerous hiking trails, camping areas, and scenic overlooks that offer stunning views of this natural wonder. Check computerdo for places of interest in Berkeley County, West Virginia.
The Seneca Rocks are another iconic landmark located in Pendleton County. These massive rocks stand 900 feet above sea level and are among some of the highest peaks in West Virginia. The Seneca Rocks are a favorite spot for rock climbing enthusiasts due to its sheer vertical cliffs that offer challenging routes for experienced climbers.
The Greenbrier Valley is home to several historic sites including The Greenbrier Hotel & Resort, Lewisburg’s historic downtown district, and White Sulphur Springs National Fish Hatchery & Wildlife Refuge which was established by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1908 as a national fish hatchery. In addition to its many historical sites, this area also offers plenty of outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, mountain biking, golfing, horseback riding, fishing, kayaking and more.
Finally, no trip to West Virginia would be complete without visiting Harpers Ferry National Historic Park. This park encompasses parts of three states (Virginia, Maryland & West Virginia) and features numerous historical sites including Stonewall Jackson’s headquarters at Camp Hill during his famous 1862 Shenandoah Valley Campaign against Union forces during the Civil War. Visitors can explore over 20 miles of trails or take a guided tour through this important piece of American history while learning about its role in shaping our nation today.
Popular Hotels in West Virginia
West Virginia is home to a variety of hotels and resorts that cater to all types of travelers. From luxurious mountain lodges to cozy bed & breakfasts, visitors can find the perfect place for their stay. One of the most popular hotels in West Virginia is The Greenbrier Hotel & Resort located in White Sulphur Springs. This historic hotel has been welcoming guests since 1778 and offers luxurious accommodations and amenities such as an 18-hole golf course, spa, fine dining, and outdoor activities. Another popular choice is The Omni Homestead Resort located in Hot Springs. This resort features a wide range of activities including horseback riding, golf, fishing, and skiing as well as several onsite restaurants and bars.
For those looking for something more rustic, there are plenty of cabins and lodges throughout the state such as Blackwater Falls State Park Lodge or Canaan Valley Resort & Conference Center which both offer cozy cabin rentals with spectacular views of nature’s beauty. In addition, there are plenty of camping sites located all throughout West Virginia that offer tent camping or RV hookups for those looking for a more outdoorsy experience.
If you’re looking for a unique stay in West Virginia then consider one of its many bed & breakfast inns or boutique hotels such as The Inn at Charles Town which offers luxurious suites with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and spa tubs or The Historic Morris Harvey House in Charleston which features period antiques and traditional furnishings from the 19th century.
No matter what type of accommodation you’re looking for, you can be sure to find it in West Virginia. From luxurious resorts to rustic cabins, there are plenty of options available for your stay no matter what type budget you have or what type experience you’re looking for.