If you’re yearning for a tranquil escape amid nature’s beauty, the New River Gorge in West Virginia is home to hidden gems that offer seclusion and serenity. I’ve spent time exploring this breathtaking region and have uncovered ten secluded towns where peace and quiet reign supreme.
From historic railway communities to quaint riverside hamlets, these towns provide a perfect retreat for those looking to step away from the hustle and bustle. Let’s journey through these enchanting places that showcase the untouched charm of Appalachia.
10. The Historic Charm of Thurmond
Thurmond is a near-abandoned town with a population of less than 10 people, giving it an almost ghost town feel that I find fascinating. Despite its small size, the town is rich in history, with well-preserved buildings that hark back to its heyday as a bustling railway hub.
Visitors can explore the historic Thurmond Depot and imagine the town’s vibrant past. There aren’t any major industries left, which contributes to its secluded atmosphere. The town’s isolation is amplified by its location within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, surrounded by dense forests and rugged terrain.
Where is Thurmond?
Thurmond is nestled deep within the New River Gorge in Fayette County, West Virginia. Accessing the town requires a drive along winding roads that descend into the gorge, which adds to its feeling of seclusion. The New River Gorge Bridge is nearby, but Thurmond itself feels worlds away from modern life.
To get there, I took Route 19 to Glen Jean and followed secondary roads that led me down to the town, crossing a narrow bridge over the New River. The journey is part of the allure, making Thurmond a secluded haven steeped in history.
9. Serenity in Prince
Prince is a quiet riverside community with an approximate population of just a few dozen residents. One of my favorite things to do here is simply enjoying the picturesque views along the New River.
The town is home to the historic Prince Depot, which still serves Amtrak’s Cardinal line, making it a unique spot where modern trains pass through a tranquil setting. There are no major industries, contributing to its peaceful ambiance.
The seclusion comes from its sparse population and the surrounding natural landscapes that envelop the town.
Where is Prince?
Located in Fayette County, Prince sits along State Route 41, nestled between Beckley and Hinton. Its secluded nature is due in part to its position along the winding New River and the enveloping forests.
Getting there involves traveling through scenic byways that meander along the river, offering glimpses of untouched wilderness. I often find that the journey to Prince, with its serene landscapes, is as peaceful as the destination itself, providing a retreat from the outside world.
8. Hidden Gem of Meadow Bridge
Meadow Bridge is a small town with a population of around 350 people, offering a peaceful escape surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests. When I’m in Meadow Bridge, I enjoy exploring the nearby Meadow River Wildlife Management Area, perfect for hiking and birdwatching.
The town is primarily residential, with local businesses catering to the community. Its seclusion stems from its rural location and the low population density, making it ideal for those seeking solitude.
Where is Meadow Bridge?
Situated in Fayette County, Meadow Bridge is tucked away off Route 20, south of Rainelle. Its remote setting amidst West Virginia’s countryside contributes to its quiet atmosphere.
To reach Meadow Bridge, I usually drive along winding country roads that showcase the area’s natural beauty. The lack of major highways keeps traffic minimal, enhancing the town’s secluded feel and offering a peaceful retreat away from urban life.
7. Glen Jean’s Rustic Appeal
Glen Jean is a quaint community with a population of just a few hundred residents. I love visiting the historic Bank of Glen Jean building and exploring the nearby coal heritage sites that tell the story of the town’s past.
While the coal industry once thrived here, it has diminished, leaving behind a quiet town rich in history. Glen Jean’s seclusion is due to its small size and the surrounding wilderness areas, including access to trails within the New River Gorge.
Where is Glen Jean?
Located in Fayette County, Glen Jean sits near the intersection of U.S. Route 19 and State Route 16. Despite its proximity to major roads, the town remains tranquil and lightly populated.
The seclusion comes from the vast expanses of forest and parklands that surround it. Getting there is straightforward, but once I arrive, the peaceful atmosphere and rustic charm make it feel a world apart from busy highways, offering easy access yet a secluded ambiance.
6. The Quiet Trails of Lansing
Lansing is a small unincorporated community with an estimated population of around 300 people. I find Lansing to be a gateway to some of the New River Gorge’s best hiking trails and breathtaking overlooks, like the famous Endless Wall Trail.
There are a few local businesses catering to outdoor enthusiasts, but overall, it’s a quiet place. The town’s seclusion is enhanced by the surrounding forests and cliffs that create a natural barrier from the outside world.
Where is Lansing?
Located north of Fayetteville in Fayette County, Lansing is accessible via U.S. Route 19 and State Route 82. Its position atop the gorge provides stunning views but also contributes to its isolation.
Reaching Lansing involves navigating winding roads that ascend into the hills. I appreciate how the journey offers glimpses of the region’s rugged beauty, further emphasizing the seclusion that makes Lansing a peaceful destination for nature lovers.
5. Ansted’s Natural Beauty
Ansted is a small town with a population of around 1,400 residents, offering serene landscapes and rich history. Some of my favorite attractions include the Hawks Nest State Park and the Mystery Hole, a quirky roadside attraction.
The town has a history rooted in coal mining, but today, tourism focused on natural beauty is more prominent. Ansted’s secluded feel comes from its position atop the mountains, surrounded by dense forests and sweeping vistas.
Where is Ansted?
Ansted is located in Fayette County along U.S. Route 60, also known as the Midland Trail Scenic Highway. Its mountaintop setting provides panoramic views but also keeps it tucked away from busier areas.
Getting to Ansted involves a scenic drive through winding mountain roads that I find both beautiful and calming. The elevation and forested surroundings make Ansted a peaceful retreat with the kind of seclusion that’s perfect for unwinding.
4. Peaceful Vistas at Sandstone
Sandstone is a small community with a population of just over 200 people, offering stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and the New River. I enjoy visiting the Sandstone Falls, the largest waterfall on the New River, which is a hidden gem in the area.
The town doesn’t have major industries, which helps maintain its quiet atmosphere. Sandstone’s seclusion is due to its location within the rugged terrain of Summers County and the encompassing natural beauty.
Where is Sandstone?
Situated in Summers County, Sandstone lies along West Virginia Route 20, near the convergence of the Greenbrier and New Rivers. The area is characterized by steep cliffs and dense forests that add to its feeling of remoteness.
Reaching Sandstone requires navigating scenic, winding roads that meander through the Appalachian landscape. For me, the journey enhances the secluded charm of Sandstone, making it a perfect spot for those seeking peaceful vistas and a connection with nature.
3. Retreat to Pax
Pax is a quiet town with an approximate population of 170 people, nestled amidst forests that offer a peaceful escape. When I’m in Pax, I appreciate the simplicity of the surroundings and the warmth of the small community.
There aren’t any significant industries, but there’s a local restaurant that’s a hidden gem among travelers. Pax’s seclusion comes from its small size and the enveloping woodlands that provide privacy and tranquility.
Where is Pax?
Located in Fayette County, Pax is accessible via Interstate 77, yet it remains largely untouched by heavy traffic. Its position off the main thoroughfares keeps it serene. To get there, I take Exit 54 off I-77 and follow the local roads that lead into the heart of town.
The surrounding forests and the lack of urban development make Pax feel like a secluded haven, ideal for a peaceful retreat.
2. The Secluded Hamlet of Princewick
Princewick is a hidden rural enclave with an estimated population of around 200 residents. I find it to be the perfect place to connect with nature, given its proximity to untouched forests and open spaces.
There are no major industries, which contributes to its quiet, laid-back lifestyle. The seclusion is enhanced by the town’s remote location and the natural barriers created by the surrounding landscape.
Where is Princewick?
Princewick is located in Raleigh County, nestled in the hills of southern West Virginia. Accessing Princewick involves traveling on secondary roads that wind through the countryside, which I find adds to the charm and sense of isolation.
The town is tucked away from main highways, making it a peaceful spot that feels miles away from the stress of modern life. Getting there requires a bit of navigation, but the tranquility that awaits is well worth the journey.
1. Hinton’s Riverside Quietude
Hinton is a small town with a population of approximately 2,500 people, where the New River converges, offering scenic beauty and a relaxed pace of life. I love strolling through the historic downtown area, visiting the Railroad Museum, and taking in the riverside views.
The local economy is modest, with small businesses and tourism centered around outdoor activities like fishing and boating. Hinton’s seclusion comes from its location surrounded by water and mountains, creating a natural barrier to the outside world.
Where is Hinton?
Situated in Summers County, Hinton is located at the confluence of the New, Greenbrier, and Bluestone Rivers. The town is accessible via State Route 20, but it’s off the beaten path.
To get there, I enjoy the scenic drive through rural landscapes that lead into the valley where Hinton resides. The surrounding waterways and rugged terrain make Hinton feel secluded, offering a riverside quietude that’s perfect for those looking to unwind amid nature’s splendor.
