Out of Hibernation and Into the Highlands
In the Potomac Highlands, the arrival of spring brings a slew of reasons to get outside and enjoy everything Grant County has to offer. Slow, cool mornings give way to days of sun-warmed skin. Breakfast cups of steaming tea are followed by chilled cafe refreshments in the afternoon. And when you finally turn in for the night, you’ll sleep easy knowing that the scenic views, friendly neighbors, and great food will all be there to experience again tomorrow.
If you spent this winter hibernating, we’ve missed you—so join us in celebrating a warmer season of loving Grant County. After these long, chilly months, it’ll feel like a family reunion.
Spring into Fun
Petersburg's annual Spring Mountain Festival is the perfect chance to shake off the last few icicles of winter and let loose. Now a 33-year tradition, the festival draws thousands of visitors each year—and you can be one of them.
Head over to the City of Petersburg Park on April 24, 25, and 26 and enjoy free admission to the fairgrounds. You can explore spontaneously or, if you don’t want to miss a moment of the festivities, make note of these top attractions:
Catch performances by regional musical artists
Kick back and enjoy a community parade
Browse the antique car, truck, tractor, and engine show
Celebrate tradition with the Trout Derby
No matter how you participate, you’re guaranteed to feel the love of community and outdoor adventure.
Soak in the Sun
The Monongahela National Forest’s flora and fauna are stretching their legs and unfurling their petals as spring rears its changeable head. After all, the Appalachian Mountains are known for their rich biodiversity. With more than 800 miles of hiking, biking, and even horseback riding trails, this 921,000-acre forest has a new wild and wonderful view everywhere you look.
Dolly Sods Wilderness is unlike any other landscape you’ve seen. Due to its rocky terrain and high elevation, this plateau is home to natural wonders typically found much farther north—in fact, its ecosystems are more like those of eastern Canada. Looking out on sphagnum bogs, red spruce forests, and huckleberry plains, you’ll feel like you’ve been dropped into the open meadows of a sweeping tundra.
In the Spruce Knob–Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area, challenge yourself to reach even greater heights by summiting Spruce Knob, the highest point in West Virginia and in the full expanse of the Allegheny Mountains. Make note of the alpine-like elements of the peak, like boulder fields and ruffed grouse. Impress your hiking partners by pointing out Krummholz, German for “twisted wood”: spruce trees gnarled by fierce west winds, leaving limbs only on their eastward sides.
Sip ’Til You’re Done
After all that time under the sun, filling your camera roll with the Potomac Highlands’ numerous natural wonders and getting to know Petersburg’s one-of-a-kind style of Appalachian hospitality, you’re going to need to refuel. Stop by The Grove Cafe & Bakery or The Station Cafe—or both, since you’ll need to grab a couple souvenirs from the Station Cafe’s neighbor, the South Side Depot Visitor Center and Gift Shop.
But don’t worry too much about taking photos and stocking up on souvenirs—Petersburg will always be happy to welcome you back. Live in the moment and experience all there is to love about Grant County.