Places miriamrigg Wants to Go

Climb the tallest remaining fire lookout tower in West Virginia for unparalleled views—if you dare.

Two gems of Beaux Arts architecture that have been sitting vacant for years.

This harrowing climb along West Virginia's jagged spires is one of the only Via Ferrata on America's east coast.

The isolated final resting place for perished coal miners.

Step back in time at this historic variety store, packed with items from a bygone era.

Soak in the sacred vibes at this beloved food and coffee hangout inside a former church.

This functioning mill was built in the 1970s using parts from several other West Virginia mills.

One day a year it is legal to jump off of this astoundingly tall bridge that spans an Appalachian gorge.

The tallest waterfall in West Virginia.

Hikers can still stroll beneath the long conveyer of this abandoned mining facility hidden in a West Virginia river gorge.

This lookout tower built in the 1930s is now an in-demand cabin with what might be the best view of the Seneca State Forest.

Take a steam-powered ride straight out of the past on this Appalachian rail line.

A particularly creepy abandoned hospital that sparks interest for lovers of the supernatural.

West Virginia’s largest bog is home to rare carnivorous plants.

A 1,000-foot-long railroad tunnel under Shavers Fork connected the towns during West Virginia's logging boom until its closure in 1985.

Under some of the darkest skies east of the Mississippi, this park invites you to look up into the Milky Way.

Where water once promised healing.

Once the site of medieval pilgrimage for its healing powers, this well was lost and later rediscovered.

This small but lovely sinkhole lake is the last remnant of a great prehistoric water basin.

From a canyon-like gorge, more than 20 million gallons of water emerge every day, while a smaller spring drips down, creating the illusion of an endless, gentle waterfall.

After visiting hours, this picturesque waterfall is essentially turned "off" to be used for hydroelectric power.

A picturesque example of brute-force engineering conquering nature.

A historic canal winds through a unique, swampy landscape.

Witnessing the might of this dessert-colored desert waterfall is a rare, powerful treat.