Nicholas County: Water, Trails and History

122 steps lead up to the 360-degree observation platform of the Summersville Lake Lighthouse. The lighthouse is 104 feet tall. Nicholas County is also home to a long swimming beach on Summersville Lake, hiking trails and the river landscape of the Gauley River, all notable destinations for day trips. Here, scenic views, lakeside experiences, history and regional food and drink come together.

Lake and river: different ways to enjoy the water

The Battle Run area of Summersville Lake has a 1,000-foot-long swimming beach. Boat ramps are located at Battle Run, Salmon Run and Long Point. This gives you several points of reference when planning a visit to the lake: the swimming beach, the ramps mentioned above and the lighthouse observation platform. You can choose your focus based on whether you want to explore the lakeshore, visit a viewpoint or enjoy activities on the water.

The Gauley River offers a different side of the area's waterscape. This section of the Gauley River in the recreation area drops more than 668 feet and features more than 100 rapids. During Gauley season, various commercial rafting companies offer trips on the river. The seasonal timing is part of the planning: rafting is described here as an activity during Gauley season, not as a year-round offering.

Hiking trails, climbing and history

Summersville Lake State Park is West Virginia's first state park with climbing access. Two hiking trails wind around the lake and through the park's 177-acre landscape. The park offers hiking and climbing as distinct activities. The two trails also provide a specific way to experience the park on foot.

History and nature come together at Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park. The 156-acre American Civil War battlefield is located on the edge of the Gauley River Canyon. The park is part of the Civil War Discovery Trail, which connects more than 300 historic sites in 16 states. Its trails, just under three miles long, are suitable for beginner hikers. A visit combines a specific historical setting with a manageable hiking option.

Sarah’s Tunnel is a distinctive structure along the Cranberry Tri-Rivers Rail Trail. The trail passes through the 640-foot-long tunnel. If you pay attention to trails and individual structures during an outing, this is a clear, measurable feature of the route.

Regional tastings and traditions

Regional food and drink are also among the options for visitors. Isaiah Morgan Distillery is West Virginia's first micro-distillery. Tours and tastings at the vineyards, winery and distillery are available throughout the week. At the distillery, visitors can watch the production process and purchase souvenirs as well as 50 ml and 750 ml bottles on site. The spirits on offer include Southern Moon, rye, bourbon and grappa.

The annual Feast of the Ramson Ramp Festival is held in Richwood, in Nicholas County. Depending on the year, the program includes a menu featuring ramps, potatoes, beans and cornbread, as well as an arts and crafts exhibition. The festival brings together regional cuisine and crafts; because the program may vary from one year to the next, it's worth checking the details for each event.

Plan your stay around your interests

When looking for a hotel in Nicholas County, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on during your stay. Are you most interested in water activities and scenic views, hiking trails and history, or planning tours and tastings? This will help you choose a starting point based on the activities that actually interest you.

Explore more destinations: Summersville, Lewis County, Mingo County, Lincoln County, Hardy County, Monroe County, Marshall County, Mercer County.

For the broader travel overview: West Virginia.