Womelsdorf West VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Womelsdorf, West Virginia.
1. Coalton Historic District
MINING HERITAGE SITE
The Coalton Historic District preserves the legacy of this former coal mining community, originally named Womelsdorf after O.C. Womelsdorf, the first coal mine operator in the area. Visitors can explore the remnants of this Irish immigrant community that once thrived during the coal boom of the early 20th century. The district offers a glimpse into the town's peak era when its population reached 833 residents in the 1920s before declining with the local coal industry.
2. Philippi Covered Bridge
HISTORIC COVERED PASSAGE
The Philippi Covered Bridge stands as one of the most significant historic structures in the region near Womelsdorf/Coalton. This remarkable covered bridge, spanning the Tygart Valley River, has survived since the Civil War era and was the site of the first land battle of the Civil War. Visitors can walk through this architectural marvel and appreciate its wooden craftsmanship while learning about its pivotal role in local history.
3. Allegheny Mountains
NATURAL MOUNTAIN BEAUTY
The Allegheny Mountains form a significant geographic feature to the east of Womelsdorf/Coalton, providing breathtaking natural landscapes within the Appalachian region. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore numerous hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and wilderness areas throughout these ancient mountains. The changing seasons transform these peaks from lush green summer retreats to vibrant fall foliage displays and winter wonderlands perfect for snow activities.
4. Monongahela National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS PRESERVE
Monongahela National Forest encompasses over 900,000 acres of diverse ecosystems near Womelsdorf/Coalton, offering countless outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy activities ranging from hiking, camping, and fishing to wildlife viewing and photography across its expansive wilderness. The forest's varied terrain includes mountains, valleys, rivers, and waterfalls that showcase the natural beauty of West Virginia's highlands throughout all seasons.
5. Elkins Depot Welcome Center
HISTORIC RAILWAY HUB
The Elkins Depot Welcome Center serves as a gateway to exploring the region surrounding Womelsdorf/Coalton from a restored historic railway station. Visitors can gather travel information, view local historical exhibits, and learn about the area's rich railroad heritage that connected communities like Coalton to larger markets. The center often hosts cultural events and serves as the departure point for scenic train excursions through the mountains of West Virginia.
6. Rolling Creek Rail Trail
HISTORIC RAILROAD PATH
The Rolling Creek Rail Trail follows the historic route of the Rolling Creek & Charleston Railroad that once connected Coalton (formerly Womelsdorf) to Charleston. This converted rail-to-trail offers hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts a scenic path through the landscapes that once supported the region's coal industry. Along the trail, interpretive signs highlight the area's transportation history and the important role railways played in developing communities like Womelsdorf/Coalton.
7. Beverly Heritage Center
CIVIL WAR HISTORY
The Beverly Heritage Center preserves and interprets the rich history of the region surrounding Womelsdorf/Coalton through its museum complex housed in several historic buildings. Exhibits showcase the area's early settlement, Civil War significance, and industrial development including the coal mining that was central to Womelsdorf's founding. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and personal stories that connect the present to the past of this historically significant region.
8. Tygart Valley River
SCENIC WATERWAY ADVENTURE
The Tygart Valley River flows near Womelsdorf/Coalton, providing a natural playground for water-based recreation in the heart of West Virginia. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy fishing for trout and smallmouth bass, paddling through gentle rapids, or simply relaxing along its scenic shores. The river has historical significance as a transportation route that supported communities like Womelsdorf/Coalton during their development and industrial growth.
9. Appalachian Forest Heritage Area
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE EXPERIENCE
The Appalachian Forest Heritage Area celebrates the forest-based cultural heritage of the region encompassing Womelsdorf/Coalton and surrounding communities. This designated heritage area highlights the interconnections between natural resources and human history, including the coal mining that gave Coalton its name. Visitors can explore various sites within the heritage area that showcase traditional crafts, industrial heritage, and sustainable forestry practices that define this unique cultural landscape.
10. West Virginia Railroad Museum
RAILWAY HISTORICAL COLLECTION
The West Virginia Railroad Museum preserves the rich railroading heritage that connected communities like Womelsdorf/Coalton to the wider world. Exhibits feature photographs, artifacts, and model displays that tell the story of how railways like the Rolling Creek & Charleston Railroad shaped local development and industry. Visitors can learn about the critical role trains played in the coal industry that was central to Womelsdorf's economy and eventual transformation into Coalton.
11. Randolph County Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Randolph County Museum houses collections that document the history of communities throughout the county, including Womelsdorf/Coalton's development as a mining town. Exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and documents that trace the area's evolution from early settlement through industrialization and into the present day. Visitors can discover the stories of local families, businesses, and industrial enterprises that shaped towns like Womelsdorf throughout their history.
12. Dolly Sods Wilderness
HIGH ALTITUDE PLATEAU
Dolly Sods Wilderness offers a remarkable high-altitude plateau experience within day-trip distance from Womelsdorf/Coalton. This unique ecological area features wind-carved boulders, red spruce forests, and heath barrens more commonly found in northern Canada. Hikers and nature photographers are rewarded with stunning vistas, diverse plant communities, and the chance to experience one of the most distinctive landscapes in the Appalachian Mountain range.
13. Stuart Recreation Area
OUTDOOR FAMILY DESTINATION
Stuart Recreation Area provides a well-maintained outdoor space for families from Womelsdorf/Coalton and surrounding communities to enjoy nature and recreational activities. The area features picnic facilities, playgrounds, and access to forest trails ideal for day hikes and wildlife observation. Visitors can cool off in summer months at the swimming area while enjoying the scenic mountain backdrop that characterizes this region of West Virginia.
14. Rich Mountain Battlefield
CIVIL WAR HISTORIC SITE
Rich Mountain Battlefield preserves an important Civil War battle site within driving distance of Womelsdorf/Coalton. This historic battlefield witnessed a significant Union victory in July 1861 that helped secure western Virginia for the Union and eventually led to West Virginia's statehood. Visitors can walk interpretive trails, view remnants of the battlefield, and gain insight into the strategic importance of the mountain passes that influenced both military campaigns and regional development.
15. Kumbrabow State Forest
PRISTINE MOUNTAIN WOODLAND
Kumbrabow State Forest offers a pristine natural experience as West Virginia's highest state forest, located within reasonable proximity to Womelsdorf/Coalton. Nature enthusiasts can explore its extensive network of trails through old-growth forests, discover hidden streams and waterfalls, and enjoy some of the most spectacular views in the region. The forest provides seasonal recreational opportunities ranging from spring wildflower viewing to summer camping, fall foliage tours, and winter cross-country skiing adventures.