Since 1891 when it was incorporated, and probably long before that, Ansted, West Virginia was known as the “stopping-over” place for stagecoaches, as it was in the middle of Charleston and Lewisburg, two of the larger cities. Today, U.S. Route 60, aka Midland Trail, runs right through Ansted still a major stopping-over place because of some of its must-see roadside attractions. Riding through West Virginia is an adventure in itself, with its rolling hills, rivers, lakes, and natural beauty. But make sure you stop to enjoy these three worthwhile treks off the main road. You won’t be sorry.
- The “world-famous” Mystery Hole will likely change you forever. And it is proclaimed as one of the “best-kept secrets” in the country. One reason might be that photos are forbidden inside the hole.
Fallywalker/TripAdvisor Mystery Hole, 16724 Midland Trail, Ansted, WV 25812, USA
History has it, this mysterious and exciting attraction was open for public view in mid-1973. And by the randomly-chosen decorations and artifacts, it is easy to see this place has been here for decades.
cheryl h/TripAdvisor
One is this friendly scout, who will greet you before you enter-at-your-own-risk.
cheryl h/TripAdvisor
Inside you will lose your sense of balance, as the laws of gravity don’t apply. If you make it out, don’t forget to purchase a souvenir in the tiny gift shop.
Jacob S/TripAdvisor
- For a more classically-historical experience, visit the grand Victorian Page-Vawter House. The lovely mansion was built in 1889-90 for the family of William Nelson Page, by Gauley Mountain Coal Co. carpenters, of which Page was president. The house sits in the center of town.
Wv funnyman, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons Page Vawter House, 20 Page St, Ansted, WV 25812, USA
As Page was an important man, no expense was spared inside or out. The interior’s 15 rooms are adorned with oak paneling with wainscoting. And if you’re a detailist, the door and window facings of solid walnut will impress you, as will the oak floors.
Pagevawterhouse.com The 11 fireplaces will also catch your eye in this fairytale space, each with a ceramic tile hearth and carved Victorian wooden mantel.
In 2007, the mansion was purchased by Jim and Debbie Campbell, who painstakingly restored it to its original condition following the Gauley Mountain blueprints.
Pagevawterhouse.com A bedroom fit for a queen, which you can stay in if you like.
In 2021, it was purchased by Dana Pauley and William Harmon, who run their own inn, and enjoy sharing its rich history with their guests.
Page Vawter House/Facebook
- Would you like a good stretch of the legs? Explore the sprawling 270-acre recreational area known as Hawks Nest State Park. Spend the day whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking, or sitting on a bench taking photos.
Hawks Nest State Park/Facebook This breathtaking wonderland is unforgettable, with winding country roads and a clifftop overlook along U.S. Route 60, offering the best scenic view in the state of the glorious New River, some 750 feet below. Hawks Nest State Park, 49 Hawks Nest Rd, Ansted, WV 25812, USA
In addition to the stunning views — can you believe there is a waterfall? Mill Creek Falls is located about midway along the Hawk’s Nest Rail Trail, which leads from Ansted to the Hawks Nest State Park Marina.
Hawks Nest State Park/Facebook
And while you’re at the marina and if you want to get off of your feet, jump in this boat for a fun scenic tour and exhilarating ride on the New River with unforgettable views of the New River Gorge, and the classic New River Gorge Bridge. Thousands of people visit this bridge in the fall to jump on Bridge Day.
Hawks Nest State Park/Facebook
A favorite way to end a day at this wondrous site is to peacefully look back from where you came, reflect on the gifts of the land, and inhale one last breath of fresh mountain air, as you watch another day sink into the peak of the majestic Gauley Mountain.
Hawks Nest State Park/Facebook
As you pack your bags for a lovely trip to Ansted to see these roadside attractions, remember to include a camera and a journal, as you will want to capture everything you see. And if you’re so inclined to see more of West Virginia, the Mountain State offers hundreds of reasons to visit.
Fallywalker/TripAdvisor
Mystery Hole, 16724 Midland Trail, Ansted, WV 25812, USA
cheryl h/TripAdvisor
cheryl h/TripAdvisor
Jacob S/TripAdvisor
Wv funnyman, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Page Vawter House, 20 Page St, Ansted, WV 25812, USA
Pagevawterhouse.com
The 11 fireplaces will also catch your eye in this fairytale space, each with a ceramic tile hearth and carved Victorian wooden mantel.
A bedroom fit for a queen, which you can stay in if you like.
Page Vawter House/Facebook
Hawks Nest State Park/Facebook
This breathtaking wonderland is unforgettable, with winding country roads and a clifftop overlook along U.S. Route 60, offering the best scenic view in the state of the glorious New River, some 750 feet below.
Hawks Nest State Park, 49 Hawks Nest Rd, Ansted, WV 25812, USA
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