West Virginia State Parks dole out infinitely fun opportunities for making memories. And while most of us have likely at least heard of Pipestem, not everyone knows it has a special aerial tramway that goes all the way to the bottom of the Bluestone River Gorge. What’s more: there is a creekside lodge and restaurant at the bottom of that gorge and the only way to get there is by way of the tram!
Pipestem opened in 1963 and includes two lodges, cabins, two golf courses, hiking, biking, boating, swimming, and more.
Flickr/J. Stephen Conn
But for those in the know, the sky tram is by far one of the most unique and popular features in the park.
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Once aboard your cozy tram, you’ll embark on a scenic ride to the bottom of the gorge.
Google Maps/Janice Foster
Expect views like this one that seem to go on forever…
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It’s especially beautiful in the fall, when the leaves are changing and the colors pop on the surrounding mountain ranges.
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In all, the tram drops a massive 1,097 feet into the bottom of the gorge where you’ll disembark for an adventure of a lifetime.
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Trails follow along the picturesque Bluestone River. Enjoy the sights and the sounds and just the overall experience of being deep into the crevice of this lovely mountain gorge.
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The park’s second lodge is located at the bottom of the tram. In fact, the tram is the ONLY way to get to the lodge.
Flickr/ J. Stephen Conn
Both the lodge and the gourmet restaurant have scenic views of the river mere steps away.
Flickr/J. Stephen Conn
There is a multitude of reasons why Pipestem Resort State Park is one of the most unique state parks in the system but the amazing tram (and the lodge/restaurant down inside the gorge) is a deal maker in our book!
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When was the last time you visited Pipestem Resort State Park? Have you ever ridden the tram? We’d love to know!
Flickr/J. Stephen Conn
TripAdvisor/Greg_Dianne_Mc
Google Maps/Janice Foster
TripAdvisor/hokie86
TripAdvisor/Peep101
TripAdvisor/Marcia B
Flickr/ J. Stephen Conn
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Pipestem Resort State Park is located at 3405 Pipestem Dr., Pipestem, WV 25979. The Mountain Creek Lodge and Mountain Creek Restaurant in the bottom of the gorge are open seasonally from May through October. Dinner reservations are required. Ticket prices for a tram ride vary by age. Learn more on the official website for West Virginia State Parks!
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Address: 3405 Pipestem Dr, Pipestem, WV 25979, USA
