Fire Up and Folk Around
As wildflowers paint the roadsides and the sun warms your skin, Grant County invites you to slow down and savor the season. Cruise the best country roads in the region, immerse yourself in the art scene of historic Petersburg, and discover what makes small-town West Virginia so irresistible.
Ride
Fire up your engines and set your sights on the horizon as you Ride the High 5—an electrifying motorcycle route that loops through the Potomac Highlands. From the hills of the Monongahela National Forest to the hollows of Smoke Hole Canyon, you’re guaranteed some of the best views in the Mountain State.
It’s a thrilling ride, but don’t let the landscape blur by too fast. Slow down to snap a photo at Seneca Rocks, cast your line in the cool waters of Smoke Hole Canyon, then refuel at Hermitage Inn and Taphouse. They say it’s about the journey, not the destination—and in Grant County, there are plenty of reasons along the way to pause and linger.
Park your wheels in Petersburg and experience the heart of small-town Appalachia. Stay the night at Hermitage Inn or kick back at Smoke Hole Resort before the mountain roads meet your tires again.
Walk
Shift into a slower gear and find creativity at every corner during the second annual Petersburg Art Walk, hosted by South Side Studios on June 7 from 1 to 4 p.m. Kick off your adventure with the community square dance at noon, then explore a town–turned–living gallery.
Wander historic streets filled with live theater, local music, interactive exhibits, Appalachian fare, and galleries showcasing the artistic soul of Grant County. It’s free to attend—all you need to bring is a curious mind and an empty stomach.
Folk Around
The fun doesn’t stop there—the third annual “Folk Around” Appalachian Art and Music Festival keeps the energy flowing. Starting at 4 p.m., grab a lawn chair and settle in outside South Side Studios for an evening of live music, artisan vendors, and family fun. The kiddos are sure to be talking about the live blacksmith demonstration for weeks.
Kids 12 and under get in free, while adult tickets are $10. From Appalachian comfort food to traditional tunes to handmade art, this celebration of mountain creativity is one you won’t want to miss.
From the rumble of a motorcycle engine to bluegrass twang, the sounds of springtime in the Mountain State are calling. Sunny days are made for adventures—so come ride, walk, and folk around with us.