Trip Highlights
Day 1
Elkins
Discover the Monongahela National Forest Hot Spot – Bickle Knob
Breakfast
Stop by The Delmonte Market’s Crossing Coffee Bar for a handcrafted latte or chai tea and breakfast sandwich. Snap a photo of the fabulous angel wings outside the shop and hit post!
Morning
- Stop by the Elkins Depot Welcome Center for maps, information, and to scout out your upcoming excursion to Bickle Knob and the Monongahela National Forest.
- Stuart Memorial Drive (Forest Road 91) is a 10.3-mile scenic route bordering the south side of Otter Creek Wilderness. It climbs from 2,200 feet near the Shaver’s Fork River to 3,900 feet at Stuart Knob, passing Bickle Knob and remaining above 3,000 feet to Alpena Gap. The unpaved road, suitable for most vehicles in good weather, traverses diverse habitats and offers access to trails, Bear Heaven Campground, and panoramic views from Bickle Knob. However, it may be rough in wet conditions and occasionally snowy through April.
- To get to Bickle Knob take 33 East out of Elkins and make the left onto Old Route 33 towards Stuart Recreation Area. After entering the Monongahela National Forest make your first left into Stuart Recreation Area. Then make your first right onto Stuart Memorial Dr. and continue straight onto Forest Rd 91 – you’ll see signs pointing you towards Bickle Knob. Overall, the drive from Elkins is around 30 minutes. Be prepared to drive on narrow gravel roads!
- Park in the small lot at Bickle Knob and enjoy the overlook and short trail to the observation tower. Climb the tower for a gorgeous view of Randolph County!
Lunch
Tiptop has the aesthetic and ambiance you want on your Instagram Feed, or maybe you’ll think it’s worth a Reel – we wouldn’t argue with that! Enjoy a bagel sandwich (smoked turkey and gouda, anyone?) and a delectable matcha or cappuccino and… snap. that. pic.
Afternoon
- Check out the graffiti wall on Third Street, located in the alley across from Fancy Paws, and snap a photo!
- Shop some of Downtown Elkins’ niche shops, from bikes (Joey’s Bike Shop), pets (Fancy Paws), donuts (Byrds House of Donuts), sewing supplies (Elkins Sewing Center), and books (Alexandria on Main)!
- Discover more public art and downtown murals, including the iconic “Unexpectedly Cool” mural.
Dinner
The Forks Inn is the ultimate destination for your foodie and scenic Instagram posts! Featuring a varied and delectable menu filled with local and homemade specialties, you’ll be tempted to snap a photo of every dish your server presents. The artisanal cocktails set against the stunning mountain landscape create an idyllic backdrop for your Instagram feed!
Day 2
Elkins
Visit the High Falls of Cheat via Train
Breakfast
Enjoy a quick breakfast at Scottie’s Diner – eggs, pancakes, or both – and head to the historic Elkins Depot for your vintage train excursion to the High Falls of Cheat!
Morning
- Check in at the Elkins Depot Welcome Center for your New Tygart Flyer train excursion by 10:30 am. You’ll begin to board at 10:45 and begin the journey to the High Falls of Cheat, a waterfall on the West Virginia Waterfall Trail.
- This scenic spot is just a short walk from the train, offering countless Instagram-worthy moments of a vintage train journey through the West Virginia mountains.
Did You Know?
Alternatively, you can hike to the falls via a moderate to difficult trail. Check out the trail guide here!
Afternoon
- Enjoy a post-train ride donut from Byrd’s House of Donuts, grab a cup of coffee to perk you up, and head to Davis & Elkins College and tour the historic buildings on campus. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time with the grand buildings, including the two mansions on campus, Halliehurst and Graceland.
Dinner
Experience the elegance of Graceland Inn and Restaurant. This stunning building, located at the heart of Davis & Elkins College, is a community focal point. Its 1893 architecture and original features are captivating, and the veranda offers a picturesque view of the Elkins cityscape and the surrounding rustic mountains—a perfect spot for an Instagram shot! Enjoy your meal on the veranda or in the beautiful dining room–take your pick!