Wetzel County: Trails, Water and Culture

Wetzel County connects the banks of the Ohio River with opportunities on the water and hiking trails, as well as museums and farms. This gives you several options to focus on when planning your trip: nature and birdwatching, water activities or cultural attractions.

Nature, Trails and Birdwatching

The Lewis Wetzel Wildlife Management Area offers many miles of trails for hiking and birdwatching. At Lantz Farm and Nature Preserve, self-guided trails and fishing ponds are part of a 555-acre property. A variety of habitats with diverse flora and fauna characterize the preserve; it is also recommended for birdwatching. Birdwatching is an interest that connects both natural areas. At Lantz Farm, the acreage, self-guided trails, ponds and diversity of habitats are additional specific features. The 555 acres equal around 225 hectares, making the size of the property easy to understand in metric terms as well.

The Almost Heaven Swing is located at the highest point of the trail network at Wetzel County 4-H Camp, at the top of the Monarch Trail. The camp also has a two-mile loop suitable for walking, running and biking. These details answer different questions: the swing’s location in the trail network is described, while the loop’s length and possible activities are the focus.

Water Activities and Docks

Fishing and pedal boating are available at Lewis Wetzel Pond. Lewis Wetzel Pool has a zero-entry access point, a watercourse and two large water slides. The two water offerings differ in their activities and features: fishing and pedal boating are available at the pond, while the pool’s features may be the deciding factor. Fireman's Park has public docks and a ramp to the dock system. The options therefore range from activities at the pond and pool to docks.

Cultural History and Visitor Experiences

Fish Creek Covered Bridge has been listed in the thematic register “West Virginia Covered Bridges” since June 4, 1981. The Lincoln Theater opened in 1920 as a venue for films and plays. The dates mark different historical milestones: for the bridge, the beginning of its listing in the register; for the theater, its opening year and original uses.

The Marble King Museum offers an interactive museum and an expanded gift shop. Marble King Marbles was founded in the late 1940s. The bridge and theater offer historical points of interest; the museum adds an interactive visitor experience to the cultural attractions. When planning, you can weigh locations with historical context against a museum experience.

Discover more destinations: New Martinsville, Littleton, Lewis County, Morgan, Kanawha, Upshur, Preston County, Monongalia.

For the broader travel overview: West Virginia.