For a Weekend Away, Enjoy the Easy Side of Wild in Hardy County, West Virginia

Friday: Unpack & Venture Out

Feel the pace immediately slow as you arrive into the mountains of Hardy County. Check in at a cozy B&B, a hotel or motel in town, a rustic cabin in the woods, or a stately, modern retreat surrounded by mountain views. Hardy County offers nearly every style of lodging imaginable — see the options at VisitHardyWV.com.

After unpacking, take a robust hike, a short walk, or scenic drive to get your bearings. Rolling hills, quiet roads, and open skies signal that you've officially left the rush behind. Enjoy a casual dinner at Mack's Bingo Kitchen in Wardensville or at O'Neill's or Mullins 1847 in Moorefield. If you're in the mood for a candlelight dinner, visit the Guesthouse Lost River, or the Lost River Grill for an evening meal accompanied by live music.

Saturday: Experience the Park & Local Flavor

Start your morning with a hearty breakfast before heading to Lost River State Park, one of Hardy County's highlights. Spend the morning hiking forested trails, visiting scenic overlooks, or check out Hidden Trails Stables and join them for one of their guided horseback rides. For a bit more rugged activity, the Jay Moglia Memorial Trail at the park offers three miles of newly built mountain bike trails designed for riders of all abilities. Want something less strenuous? Visit the Higgins House Museum in Moorefield to explore our rural revolutionary war history, and yours, or snag some tickets to McCoys Grand Theater. At the end of the day, pick up great pulled pork or smoked chicken at BBQ Country in Wardensville or a wood-fired pizza at Lost + Found Pizza and Provisions in Mathias, then return to your cabin for a drink on the porch and a peaceful evening under the stars.

Sunday: Before Heading Home

Slow your departure and stop for breakfast at Drifters Café in Wardensville and visit Wordplay, an independent bookstore right next door. Lost River Trading Post offers an eclectic selection of art, crafts, and antiques that you can enjoy with coffee and pastries. Then head to the Wardensville Garden Market to pick up some locally grown organic produce and freshly made baked goods (like their great maple cinnamon rolls!) to take a bit of Hardy County back with you.

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More to Explore in Hardy County

Hardy County is part of West Virginia's Eastern Panhandle, where mountain scenery, small communities and outdoor recreation make it an inviting addition to a fall getaway. Lost River State Park in Mathias stretches across 3,934 wooded acres and offers hiking, cabin lodging and access to scenic overlooks.

Lost River State Park opened in 1937 after being developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. One of its best known destinations is the Cranny Crow overlook on Big Ridge Mountain, which offers views across five counties. West Virginia State Parks also highlights Lost River as a destination for experiencing fall color.

For current trip planning information, accommodations, seasonal events and additional attractions throughout Hardy County, visit VisitHardyWV.com.