This loop through the southern part of the Greenbrier Valley has the potential to become a day chocked full of adventure if you stop to hike on the Greenbrier River Trail, enjoy a leisurely lunch by the river at Ronceverte Island Park, and take a stroll around Alderson's downtown in search of "lions."
Starting just east of Lewisburg – parking 1-mile off Route 60 affords easy access to the southern-most-point of the 78-mile Greenbrier River Trail. Rated a “Top Ten Hiking Trail” by Backpacker magazine, this rails-to-trails welcomes all non-motorized adventure-goers looking to hike, bike or horseback ride.
Driving Tour Map
Immerse yourself in the rich history of the region with this 48-mile loop that loosely follows the Greenbrier River.
If your rod and reel are at the ready, plan to make some casts in Second Creek. Ample fish habitat and easy to wade, the creek is consistently stocked and often sought for its lunker-sized trout. Catch-and-release, fly fishing only.
Ronceverte, French for “greenbrier,” was once an active hub for the C&O mainline. Amtrak travelers and freight cars still pass through the heart of town. Standing proudly along the tracks, the stately 1914 Craftsman-style Ronceverte Train Depot is a testament to this once vital form of transportation.
Drive to the other side of the river, a mere two-minute journey, you'll find an excellent stop for an outdoor lunch. The Ronceverte Island Park amphitheater borders the Greenbrier River, with ample space to spread out a picnic meal or dip your toes in the water. The park features plenty of ways to get out and stretch, including horseshoe pits, tennis courts, a playground and the valley's only dog park.
In Alderson, and you might notice an unusually large number of lion statues. In 1890, a resident adopted an infant cub from a circus company passing through town. The tamed lion occasionally escaped its owner's yard and roamed the community. Putting a stop to the shenanigans, the town passed an ordinance requiring lions to be leashed. Although no carnivores prowl the streets today, the town boasts numerous historic sites and quaint shopping stops.
For a bite to eat that more than satisfies a rumbling stomach, stop in the Riverview Cafe or Alderson Big Wheel. Each is known for its housemade favorites, but rest assured, down-home cooking is always on the menu!
Built in the 1930's, Alderson's Store features pristine art deco design inside and out.
Sarah Alderson - Alderson’s Store
You grew up in the Greenbrier Valley. What brought you back? My family has lived in Alderson for over 200 years, so I have deep roots here. A few years back, my parents were getting to the age where they needed help. Because of my last name, I’ve become kind of an unofficial ambassador. I regularly talk to people who want to know more about our history and the Alderson name.
What do you like to do in your free time? Sunday drives were a big deal growing up. I still love to explore the back roads and find things I didn’t know existed when I was a kid. I’m amazed at how much history is here; I see something new every time I go out!
What’s one must-do you suggest to visitors? Whether at home or traveling, I always tell people they should visit my family store. Alderson may be a little town in West Virginia, but it will surprise them.
Suggested selfie stops on your road trip:
Alderson Memorial Pedestrian Bridge - crosses over the Greenbrier River
View more road trip ideas.
Driving Tour Map
Immerse yourself in the rich history of the region with this 48-mile loop that loosely follows the Greenbrier River.
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