Explore Hardy County, West Virginia

Follow our country roads through river valleys and forested hills, creating memorable adventures and experiencing the genuine hospitality of West Virginia.

Rivers, Runs and Lakes – Hardy County’s four rivers are seasonally gentle or whitewater, and stocked lakes and mountain runs are waiting to be fished. Rent a canoe or kayak at Breezewood Adventures to see The Trough, an isolated 6-mile gorge on the South Branch of the Potomac River where bald eagles soar overhead. The South Fork is a seasonal float and fishing river, and Lost River disappears underground to become the Cacapon. Trout Pond Recreation Area is home to the 17-acre Rockcliff Lake and (the sometimes tiny) Trout Pond, West Virginia’s only natural lake.

Hiking, Biking, and Horseback Riding – Lost River State Park has unforgettable vistas, including the impressive Cranny Crow Overlook. Hike the trails through the historic park or experience them on horseback with a guide from Hidden Trails Stables. Visit the Nature Center or the UDisc Golf Course. Join Lost River Trails Coalition for workdays to expand trail options in the park and don’t miss the Lost River Trail Run in May and Lost River Classic Gravel Race in August. In nearby George Washington National Forest hike or bike the trails to spectacular vistas.

In Town and Out – In Moorefield, tee-off at Valley View Golf Club, visit West-Whitehill Winery for a tour and tasting, or purchase WV-made products at Our Roots. Have lunch or dinner at Pupuseria Emerita or Grillin’ Time Diner, pizza or pasta at Gennaro’s, and then enjoy hand-dipped ice cream from Sweet Treats on Main. See performances at McCoy’s Grand Theater, the latest movie at South Branch Cinema 6, or go bowling at Potomac Lanes.

Seasonal Fairs and Festivals are great family attractions. In mid to late July the Annual WV Poultry Festival includes seven days of festivities – food, a parade, golf tournament, and turkey shoot and don’t miss the WV’s Branch Mountain Bluegrass Festival July 18-20. The last weekend in September is the Hardy County Heritage Weekend featuring quilt and craft shows, food, a parade, house tours, and reenactments followed in October by the Wardensville Fall Festival. Among the many other events to enjoy are the WV Turkey Festival, Independence Day Celebration, Tri-County Fair, and the Teets Bulls & Barrels Rodeo.

Explore the many Farm Markets throughout the county and shop for regional crafts at Lost River Artisans Marketplace. Experience a modern take on the traditional country store at South Fork General Store, Lost River General Store, and Lost River Trading Post, for unique gifts, artwork and crafts, antiques, made-to-order food, and beverages.

Visit WordPlay, an independent bookstore in Wardensville, and then stop by Dakota Glass Works to see glassblowing demonstrations. While you’re in town, enjoy coffee, breakfast, or lunch at Drifters Café or Kac-Ka-Pon, order lunch at Marina’s or the Wardensville Garden Market where you can also get fresh pastries and produce.

Finished for the day? There is so much to keep you busy with plenty of exploring left over for the following day and the day after, too. Plan your next adventure over dinner with live music at Mullins 1847 or Lost River Grill. Order a wood-fire pizza at Lost and Found Pizza + Provisions or dine by candlelight at the Guesthouse. Enjoy a steak and fresh salad at O’Neill’s or dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients at Mack’s Bingo Kitchen.

Plan to stay the night or the whole week! Our website offers many lodging options – whether you want to make your own breakfast over an open fire, in a secluded mountain cabin, or enjoy being served at a cozy bed and breakfast or local restaurant, Hardy County has a bit of everything. Explore our website www.visithardywv.com and check us out on Facebook and Instagram at @VisitHardy.

Links for above mentioned businesses or locations:

Hardy County Convention & visitors Bureau

https://visithardywv.com Facebook: @VisitHardy

Breezewood Adventures

https://www.breezewoodadventures.com

Trout Pond Recreation Area

https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232162

Lost River State Park

https://wvstateparks.com/park/lost-river-state-park/

https://udisc.com/courses/lost-river-state-park-ILGr/map

Hidden Trails Stables

http://www.hiddentrailsstableswv.com/