AMERICA, ONE BEAUTIFUL ROAD AT A TIME

Staunton-Parkersburg Turnpike

West Virginia
Take your time. Make a few stops. Enjoy the view.
Rich Mountain Backway · Public Domain. Staunton-Parkersburg Turnpike Alliance. · Photo credits
THE JOURNEY IS THE REASON TO GO

Let the road set the pace.

Crucial in the First Campaign of the Civil War, this road now features pristine Civil War sites and charming historic towns. Hike through vast forests; fish in secluded waters; ride a wild mountain railroad. Explore this byway whose woods, small farms and beautiful mountain vistas take you back to an earlier time.

The experienceNational Scenic Byway
Start with this outlineChoose a section of the named byway
Fall-touched trees encasing the byway invoke mountain beauty on this historic path.
Rich Mountain Backway
Public Domain. Staunton-Parkersburg Turnpike Alliance. · Photo credits

Before you drive

Choose your stops before departure and check current road access, weather and vehicle suitability. A byway listing does not guarantee that every section or visitor facility is open.

Make it a satisfying day

Choose a realistic section, then allow time for viewpoints, a town stop and breaks. Scenic mileage rarely tells the whole story of how long an outing will take.

Match the road to your vehicle

Check the exact roads for your car, RV or motorcoach. Tunnel dimensions, turning space, grades and road surfaces can matter as much as distance.

Official route information ↗State road-condition links ↗

Route overview and designation: Federal Highway Administration, America’s Byways. Research: October 2026. This is a travel idea, not live navigation or a guarantee that the full route is open. Confirm exact roads, current conditions, parking and any attraction reservations before departure.