Expert Verdict & Insider Tips
If you are planning a trip to West Virginia, visiting Bluestone National Scenic River should definitely be on your list. This beautiful national scenic river is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you have just a few hours or a whole weekend, there is plenty to explore.
About Bluestone National Scenic River
Bluestone National Scenic River is a national scenic river located in West Virginia. Summer: Temperatures range from low to mid 60's at night to middle to upper 80's during the daytime hours. Winter: Temperatures average from the mid 20's to the mid 40's. Snowfall amount varies, but averages 5" per month Dec. - March. Spring and Fall: temperatures and rainfall variable. Peak fall foliage is usually mid-October.
Bluestone National Scenic River is most easily accessed via Bluestone State Park and Pipestem Resort State Park. A narrow, graveled park road provides access to the Bluestone Turnpike Trail at the former Lilly town site at the confluence of the Little Bluestone River. To reach these parks from I-64, take exit 139, then south on Rt. 20. From I-77 take exit 14 to Rt.20 north. Either direction, Bluestone State Park is 15 miles and Pipestem is 22 miles.
💰 Entrance Fees & Passes
Entry to Bluestone is completely free. There are no general entrance fees or vehicle passes required to access this park unit.
🥾 Things to Do
Bluestone National Scenic River offers visitors a diverse selection of outdoor experiences. You can participate in a wide array of activities, most notably Biking, Mountain Biking, Boating, Fishing, and 11 other recreational activities, depending on the season and weather conditions. Path options exist for both casual strollers and expert backcountry adventurers.
📦 Recommended Gear & Packing Checklist
Custom items selected for activities at Bluestone
📋 Visitor Planning Tips for Bluestone
- →Beat the Crowds: Arrive at the main gates or trailheads of Bluestone before 8:00 AM. Parking spaces at popular locations fill up extremely fast, especially during warm peak season weekends.
- →Verify Conditions: Weather and trail accessibility inside Bluestone can change rapidly. Always verify the latest road conditions and local weather advisories before starting your trek.
- →Leave No Trace: Help protect the delicate ecosystems of Bluestone. Stay on marked trails, pack out all of your waste, and keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
The Bluestone River and the rugged and ancient gorge it has carved is a richly diverse and scenic area of the southern Appalachians. Bluestone National Scenic River is preserved as a living landscape that provides an unspoiled experience for visitors and a haven for a variety of plants and animals. The park protects a 10.5-mile section of the Bluestone River in southern West Virginia.
Seasonal Visitor Guides
Frequently Asked Questions about Bluestone
About the Author
James R. Mitchell
Founder & Lead Writer — National Park Data
James has visited all 63 designated US national parks and has been writing about outdoor travel for over 12 years. He spent 8 years as a wilderness guide in the Rocky Mountains before founding National Park Data to help visitors plan better, safer, and more enjoyable park trips.
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