Need somewhere to sit and stay awhile that’s not your own living room? Then head out to Babcock State Park, which is known for its gorgeous mill, bridges, and waterfalls…but should arguably be just as famous for its benches.
Babcock State Park is famous around the nation for its beautifully restored gristmill: Glade Creek Gristmill.
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Yes, the mill is stunning, and we love it! But we think Babcock should be known for something else as well: its benches.
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Because there’s a lesser-known gem that’s just as jaw-dropping hiding in this park: the expansive views of the New River Gorge. And the wise folks that built the State Parks, recognizing the beauty in front of them, kindly provided a bench (or two or three or a dozen) from which you can sit for hours and stare at this splendor.
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Spring, summer, fall, and winter - the gorge is gorgeous year-round.
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And you can sit right down and enjoy it from several vantages throughout Babcock State Park, including the overlooks along the road that branches to the right just after the park’s entrance and at Manns Picnic Area.
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You could spend hours sitting here, taking in this view. In fact, we highly recommend it as excellent medicine for the soul.
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Even the pictures of this spot provide a measure of refreshment, and they can’t even come close to capturing what this view is like in person.
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All the benches are nice, but this bench right here in the shade of the forest is our favorite.
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Lucky for you, if it’s occupied, there are plenty more, so search around until you find the best and settle in for a nice, long, soul-refreshing gaze.
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And then come back, and do it again…and again, and again.
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You can find Babcock State Park in Clifftop in Fayette County. For more information on trails, cabins, and other attractions the park offers, visit the West Virginia State Parks website. And if this view makes you hungry for more, consider visiting this gorgeous West Virginia overlook as well.
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Address: Babcock State Park, 486 Babcock Rd, Clifftop, WV 25831, USA
