West Virginia, located in the Appalachian region of the United States, is a state known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. With its towering mountains, picturesque countryside, and charming small towns, West Virginia offers a distinctive blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. To help visitors and residents navigate this beautiful state, we have created a detailed map of West Virginia with cities and highways.
This map highlights West Virginia’s major cities, including Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown, and Wheeling, as well as its primary highways and roads. Whether you’re planning a road trip or simply want to explore West Virginia’s unique landscape and culture, this map is an essential tool. So, grab your map and get ready to discover all that West Virginia has to offer, from its world-renowned whitewater rafting to its historic landmarks and everything in between.
Printable West Virginia Map With Cities and Highways
Cities
Charleston
Charleston is the capital and most populous city of West Virginia, located at the confluence of the Elk and Kanawha rivers. With a population of 48,864 at the 2020 census and an estimated population of 48,018 in 2021, Charleston is the economic, cultural, and political center of the state. The Charleston metropolitan area had 210,605 residents in 2020.
The town of Charleston was incorporated by the Virginia House of Delegates in 1794, and early industries important to the city included salt and the first natural gas well. Today, trade, utilities, government, medicine, and education play central roles in the city’s economy. Charleston is also home to the Charleston Dirty Birds of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball and hosts the annual 15-mile (24 km) Charleston Distance Run.
Yeager Airport and the University of Charleston are located in the city, with West Virginia State University, West Virginia University, and Marshall University satellite campuses in the local area. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, Charleston has something to offer for everyone.
Huntington
Huntington is a city located at the confluence of the Ohio and Guyandotte rivers in Cabell and Wayne counties in West Virginia. As the county seat of Cabell County, Huntington is the second-largest city in West Virginia, with a population of 46,842 as of the 2020 census. The Huntington-Ashland metropolitan area, spanning seven counties across three states, is the largest in West Virginia, with a population of 376,155 at the 2020 census.
The area was first settled in 1775 as Holderby’s Landing and quickly developed after the completion of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway in 1871. The city became a hub for manufacturing, transportation, and industrialization, with an industrial sector based in coal, oil, chemicals, and steel.
Today, Huntington is a vital rail-to-river transfer point for the marine transportation industry and home to the Port of Huntington Tri-State, the second-busiest inland port in the United States.
The city is also home to Marshall University, the Huntington Museum of Art, Mountain Health Arena, Camden Park, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, and the headquarters of the CSX Transportation-Huntington Division. Huntington has plenty of history, culture, and outdoor activities in store for every taste.
Morgantown
Morgantown is a city located along the Monongahela River and is the county seat of Monongalia County in West Virginia. As the largest city in North Central West Virginia and the third-largest city in the state, Morgantown is best known as the home of West Virginia University.
With a population of 30,347 at the 2020 census, the city serves as the anchor of the Morgantown metropolitan area, which had a population of 138,176 in 2020. Morgantown is a hub of education, healthcare, and technology, with West Virginia University and WVU Medicine serving as major employers in the area.
The city is also home to an energetic arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and music venues. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the city’s proximity to outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, biking, and skiing. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a retiree, Morgantown offers a high quality of life in a vibrant and welcoming community.
Parkersburg
Parkersburg is a city located at the confluence of the Ohio and Little Kanawha rivers and is the county seat of Wood County in West Virginia. As the state’s fourth-largest city and the center of the Parkersburg-Vienna metropolitan area, the city’s population was 29,749 at the 2020 census, with a metro population of 89,490.
The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad reached Parkersburg in 1857 but lacked a crossing over the Ohio River until after the American Civil War. The completion of the Parkersburg Bridge (CSX) in 1868-1870 to Belpre made it the longest railroad bridge in the world. The Bureau of the Public Debt, an agency of the U.S. Treasury Department, was relocated from the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area to Parkersburg in the late 20th century and headquartered there.
In October 2012, it was merged with the Financial Management Service to form the Bureau of the Fiscal Service. Parkersburg offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors, including outdoor recreation, cultural events, and historical landmarks. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich history or enjoying the beauty of the surrounding natural landscape, Parkersburg is a great destination for travelers of all ages.
Wheeling
Wheeling is a city located along the Ohio River in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and is almost entirely in Ohio County, of which it is the county seat. It also contains a small portion extending into Marshall County. As the principal city of the Wheeling metropolitan area, the city had a population of 27,062 at the 2020 census, with the metro area having a population of 139,513.
Wheeling is the fifth-largest city in West Virginia and the largest in the state’s Northern Panhandle, located about 60 miles west of Pittsburgh. The city has a rich history, originally being a settlement in the British colony of Virginia and later becoming the second-largest city in the Commonwealth of Virginia. During the American Civil War, Wheeling was the host of the Wheeling Conventions that led to the formation of West Virginia, and it was the first capital of the new state.
Due to its location along major transportation routes, Wheeling became a manufacturing center in the late nineteenth century. Today, the city’s major industries include healthcare, education, law and legal services, entertainment and tourism, and energy. Wheeling is a great destination for visitors interested in history, culture, and outdoor recreation, with an array of museums, parks, and natural attractions to explore.
Martinsburg
Martinsburg is a city located in Berkeley County, West Virginia, and is the county seat. With a population of 18,773 at the 2020 census, Martinsburg is the largest city in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia and the seventh-largest city in the state.
The city is a principal city of the Hagerstown-Martinsburg metropolitan area, which extends into Maryland and had a population of 293,844 in 2020. Martinsburg has a rich history, with numerous historical landmarks and museums to explore.
The city is also home to a flourishing arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the city’s proximity to outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Martinsburg offers a high quality of life in a welcoming and energetic community.
Weirton
Weirton is a city located in Hancock and Brooke counties in West Virginia, situated along the Ohio River in the state’s Northern Panhandle. With a population of 19,163 as of the 2020 census, Weirton is the sixth-largest city in the state. The city was established in 1947 after the consolidation of various small towns in the vicinity of the Weirton Steel Corporation, founded by Ernest T. Weir in 1909.
Weirton is a principal city of the Weirton-Steubenville metropolitan area, which had a population of 116,903 residents in 2020, and is also a major city in the western part of the Pittsburgh-New Castle-Weirton combined statistical area.
Weirton is a hub of industry, with steel manufacturing being a major employer in the area. The city is also home to numerous parks, museums, and cultural attractions, making it a great destination for visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor recreation, Weirton has something to offer for everyone.
Fairmont
Fairmont is a city located in Marion County, West Virginia, and is the county seat. With a population of 18,313 at the 2020 census, Fairmont is the eighth-largest city in the state. The city is the principal city of the Fairmont micropolitan area, which includes all of Marion County in North Central West Virginia, and had a population of 56,205 in 2020.
Fairmont is also a principal city of the larger Morgantown-Fairmont combined statistical area. Fairmont has a rich history, with a variety of historical landmarks and museums to explore. The city is also home to Fairmont State University, which offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the city’s proximity to outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Fairmont offers a high quality of life in a welcoming and vibrant community.
Beckley
Beckley is a city located in Raleigh County, West Virginia, and is the county seat. With a population of 17,286 at the 2020 census, Beckley is the ninth-largest city in the state. The city is the principal city of the Beckley metropolitan area of Southern West Virginia, home to 115,079 residents in 2020.
Beckley has a rich history, with ties to the coal mining industry dating back to its founding on April 4, 1838. Today, the city is home to a range of educational institutions, including the West Virginia University Institute of Technology, Concord University, and the University of Charleston.
Beckley offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors, including outdoor recreation opportunities, cultural events, and historical landmarks. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich history or enjoying the beauty of the surrounding natural landscape, Beckley is a great destination for travelers of all ages.
Clarksburg
Clarksburg is a city located in Harrison County, West Virginia, and is the county seat. With a population of 16,039 at the 2020 census, Clarksburg is the tenth-largest city in the state. The city is the principal city of the Clarksburg micropolitan area, which had a population of 90,434 in 2020.
Clarksburg has received numerous accolades, including being named National Small City of the Year in 2011 by the National League of Cities. The city has a rich history, with numerous historical landmarks and museums to explore. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the city’s proximity to outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, biking, and fishing.
Clarksburg is a marvelous destination for visitors interested in history, culture, and outdoor recreation, with numerous attractions and activities to enjoy. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Clarksburg offers a high quality of life in a welcoming and exciting community.
Teays Valley
Teays Valley is a census-designated place located in Putnam County, West Virginia. With a population of 14,350 at the 2020 census, Teays Valley is a growing community that offers a high quality of life. The community is located about 18 miles west of Charleston and 28 miles east of Huntington, making it part of the Huntington-Ashland metropolitan area.
Teays Valley is divided by the two magisterial districts of Teays and Scott and was named for Thomas Teays, a hunter and trapper who once spent a considerable amount of time in the vicinity. The community is known for its natural beauty, with a range of parks and outdoor recreation opportunities available to residents and visitors alike.
Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Teays Valley is a satisfying destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With a growing economy and a welcoming community, Teays Valley is a brilliant place to call home.
South Charleston
South Charleston is a city located in Kanawha County, West Virginia, to the west of the state capital of Charleston. With a population of 13,639 at the 2020 census, South Charleston is a thriving community that offers a high standard of living. The city was established in 1906 but was not incorporated until 1917.
The Criel Mound, built circa 0 B.C. by the Adena culture, is adjacent to the city’s downtown business district and serves as a reminder of the area’s rich history. South Charleston is home to the Charleston Ordnance Center, a former naval munitions factory established for use in World War I. The city is serviced by several major highways, including Interstate 64, U.S. Route 60, U.S. Route 119, West Virginia Route 601, and West Virginia Route 214, and is adjacent to the Kanawha River.
South Charleston serves as the headquarters of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and the West Virginia State Police, making it an important hub for state government. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, South Charleston offers a welcoming community and a range of attractions and activities to enjoy.
Vienna
Vienna is a city located in Wood County, West Virginia, situated along the Ohio River. With a population of 10,676 at the 2020 census, Vienna is a small but thriving community that offers a high quality of life. It is the second-largest city in the Parkersburg-Vienna metropolitan area. Vienna has a rich history, with a plethora of historical landmarks and museums to explore.
The city is also home to a range of parks and recreational facilities, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Vienna has something to offer for everyone.
The city is serviced by several major highways, including Interstate 77 and U.S. Route 50, providing easy access to nearby cities. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Vienna offers a welcoming community and a range of attractions and activities to enjoy.
St. Albans
St. Albans is a city located in western Kanawha County, West Virginia, at the confluence of the Kanawha and Coal Rivers. With a population of 10,861 at the 2020 census, St. Albans is a small but thriving community that offers a high quality of life. The city is part of the Charleston metropolitan area, providing easy access to a range of attractions and amenities.
St. Albans has a rich history, with numerous historical landmarks and museums to explore. The city is also home to a range of parks and recreational facilities, making it a great destination for nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, St. Albans has something to offer for everyone.
The city is serviced by several major highways, including Interstate 64 and U.S. Route 60, providing easy access to nearby cities and attractions. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, St. Albans offers a welcoming community and a range of attractions and activities to enjoy.
Cheat Lake
Cheat Lake is a census-designated place located in Monongalia County, West Virginia, surrounding the Cheat Lake reservoir. With a population of 9,930 at the 2020 census, Cheat Lake is a small but thriving community that offers a high standard of living. The community is included in the Morgantown metropolitan area, providing easy access to a range of attractions and amenities.
Cheat Lake is known for its natural beauty, with numerous parks and outdoor recreation opportunities available to residents and visitors alike. The Cheat Lake reservoir is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities.
The community is also home to a range of restaurants, shops, and other amenities, making it a great place to call home. Whether you’re interested in outdoor recreation, cultural events, or simply enjoying the beauty of the surrounding natural landscape, Cheat Lake offers something for everyone.
Cross Lanes
Cross Lanes is a census-designated place (CDP) and suburb of Charleston in Kanawha County, West Virginia. With a population of 9,995 as of the 2010 census, Cross Lanes is a small but growing community that offers a high quality of life. The community is known for its friendly residents, welcoming atmosphere, and range of amenities and attractions.
Cross Lanes is located just a short drive from Charleston, providing easy access to a range of cultural events, shopping, and dining options. The community is home to a range of parks and recreational facilities, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Cross Lanes has something to offer for everyone.
The community is also home to a range of restaurants, shops, and other amenities, making it a great place to call home. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Cross Lanes offers a friendly community and an array of pleasing attractions and activities.
Bluefield
Bluefield is a city located in Mercer County, West Virginia. With a population of 9,658 at the 2020 census, Bluefield is a small but thriving community that offers a high quality of life. The city is the principal city of the Bluefield micropolitan area, which extends into Virginia and had a population of 106,363 in 2020.
Bluefield has a rich history, with numerous historical landmarks and museums to explore. The city is also home to a range of parks and recreational facilities, making it a satisfying spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Bluefield has plenty in store for every taste.
The city is serviced by several major highways, including Interstate 77 and U.S. Route 460, providing easy access to nearby cities and attractions. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Bluefield offers a welcoming community and a range of attractions and activities to enjoy.
Bridgeport
Bridgeport is a city located in eastern Harrison County, West Virginia. With a population of 9,325 at the 2020 census, Bridgeport is a small but growing community that offers a high quality of life. The city is part of the Clarksburg micropolitan area in North Central West Virginia, providing easy access to a range of attractions and amenities.
Bridgeport has a rich history, with numerous historical landmarks and museums to explore. The city had its beginning in pre-American Revolutionary War times, with John Simpson entering the area in 1764 and giving his name to Simpson Creek. Bridgeport was chartered in 1816 and has since grown into a flourishing community with a range of amenities and attractions.
The city is home to a range of parks and recreational facilities, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Bridgeport is a delightful choice. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Bridgeport offers a welcoming community and a range of stunning attractions and activities.
Oak Hill
Oak Hill is a city located in Fayette County, West Virginia. With a population of 8,179 at the 2020 census, Oak Hill is a small but growing community that offers a high quality of life. The city is part of the Beckley metropolitan area, providing easy access to a range of attractions and amenities. Oak Hill has a rich history, with numerous historical landmarks and museums to explore.
The city is known for its connection to country music legend Hank Williams, who died in Oak Hill on his way to a concert on January 1, 1953. The city is also home to the historic Oak Hill Railroad Depot, which still stands today as an artisan shop.
In recent years, recreation has become a leading industry in Oak Hill, as the city neighbors the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Oak Hill has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Oak Hill offers a convivial community and an absorbing range of attractions and pursuits.
Moundsville
Moundsville is a city located in Marshall County, West Virginia, along the Ohio River. With a population of 8,122 at the 2020 census, Moundsville is a small but growing community that offers a high quality of life. The city is also the county seat of Marshall County and part of the Wheeling metropolitan area, providing easy access to a range of attractions and amenities.
Moundsville is known for its connection to the ancient Grave Creek Mound, which was constructed 250 to 100 BC by indigenous people of the Adena culture. The mound is located nearby and serves as a reminder of the area’s rich history. Moundsville has a range of historical landmarks and museums to explore, including the West Virginia Penitentiary, which operated from 1876 to 1995 and is now a popular tourist attraction.
The city is also home to a range of parks and recreational facilities, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Moundsville has something to offer for everyone.
Dunbar
Dunbar is a city located in Kanawha County, West Virginia, situated along the Kanawha River. With a population of 7,479 at the 2020 census, Dunbar is a small but growing community that offers a high quality of life. The city has a rich heritage, with numerous historical landmarks and museums to explore.
Dunbar is also home to a range of parks and recreational facilities, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Dunbar has something to offer for everyone.
The city is serviced by several major highways, including Interstate 64 and U.S. Route 60, providing easy access to nearby cities and attractions. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Dunbar offers a marvelous community and plenty of attractions and activities.
Charles Town
Charles Town is a city located in Jefferson County, West Virginia, and is the county seat. With a population of 6,534 at the 2020 census, Charles Town is a small but historic community that offers a high quality of life. The city is named for its founder Charles Washington, the youngest brother of President George Washington.
Charles Town has a rich history, with numerous historical landmarks and museums to explore. The city is also home to a range of parks and recreational facilities, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Charles Town is part of the northwestern fringes of the Washington metropolitan area, providing easy access to a range of attractions and amenities.
Whether you’re interested in historical landmarks, cultural events, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Charles Town offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Charles Town offers a welcoming community and a variety of exciting attractions and activities.
Hurricane
Hurricane is a city located in Putnam County, West Virginia. With a population of 6,977 at the 2020 census, Hurricane is a small but thriving community that offers a high quality of life. The city is located roughly equidistant from Charleston and Huntington, making it a convenient location for residents and visitors alike.
Hurricane is part of the Huntington-Ashland metropolitan area, providing easy access to a range of attractions and amenities. The city has a range of parks and recreational facilities, making it a great place for fans of the outdoors.
Hurricane is also home to a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as cultural events throughout the year. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Hurricane has something to offer for every taste. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Hurricane offers a wonderful community and plenty of attractions.
Elkins
Elkins is a city located in Randolph County, West Virginia, along the Tygart Valley River. With a population of 6,950 at the 2020 census and estimated at 6,895 in 2021, Elkins is a small but vibrant community that offers a superb standard of living. The city was incorporated in 1890 and named in honor of Stephen Benton Elkins, a U.S. Senator from West Virginia.
Elkins is home to Davis and Elkins College, a private liberal arts college that offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The city is also home to the Mountain State Forest Festival, held in early October every year, which celebrates the beauty and bounty of the region’s forests. Elkins has a range of parks and recreational facilities, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Elkins has something to offer for everyone. The city is also home to a range of shops, restaurants, and cultural events throughout the year, making it a great place to call home. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Elkins offers a welcoming community and a range of attractions and activities to enjoy.
Pea Ridge
Pea Ridge is a census-designated place located in Cabell County, West Virginia. With a population of 6,602 at the 2020 census, Pea Ridge is a small but growing community that offers a high quality of life. The community is part of the Huntington-Ashland metropolitan area, providing easy access to a range of attractions and amenities.
Pea Ridge has a range of parks and recreational facilities, making it a pleasing destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The community is also home to a plethora of shops and restaurants, as well as cultural events throughout the year. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Pea Ridge is waiting for you with open arms.
Brookhaven
Brookhaven is a census-designated place located in Monongalia County, West Virginia. With a population of 5,707 at the 2020 census, Brookhaven is a small but growing community that offers a high quality of life. The community is included in the Morgantown, West Virginia Metropolitan Statistical Area, providing easy access to a range of attractions and amenities.
Brookhaven has plenty of parks and recreational facilities and is also home to a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as cultural events throughout the year. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Brookhaven will tick all your boxes. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Brookhaven offers an exciting community and an assortment of activities and pursuits.
Nitro
Nitro is a city located in both Kanawha and Putnam counties in West Virginia. The city takes its name from a World War I-era nitrocellulose plant that was established in the area. With a population of 6,618 according to the 2020 census, Nitro is a small but growing community that offers a high quality of life.
The city is part of the Charleston metropolitan area, providing easy access to a range of attractions and amenities. Nitro has a range of parks and recreational facilities, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The city is also home to a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as cultural events throughout the year. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Nitro has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Nitro offers a welcoming community and a range of attractions and activities to enjoy.
Princeton
Princeton is a city located in Mercer County, West Virginia, and is the county seat. With a population of 5,872 at the 2020 census, Princeton is a small but bustling community that offers a high quality of life. The city is part of the Bluefield micropolitan area, providing easy access to a range of attractions and amenities.
Princeton is home to shops, restaurants, and cultural events throughout the year, making it a fulfilling spot to live. The city is also home to the Princeton WhistlePigs baseball club of the Appalachian League, providing residents and visitors with the opportunity to enjoy America’s favorite pastime.
Princeton has a range of parks and recreational facilities, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Princeton is a superb destination.
Ranson
Ranson is a city located in Jefferson County, West Virginia. With a population of 5,433 at the 2020 census, Ranson is a small but growing community that offers a high quality of life. The city is part of the northwestern fringes of the Washington metropolitan area, providing easy access to a range of attractions and amenities.
Ranson has a range of parks and recreational facilities, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is also home to an exciting range of shops and restaurants, as well as cultural events throughout the year. Whether you’re an inhabitant or a tourist, Ranson offers a brilliant community and many activities to enjoy.
New Martinsville
New Martinsville is a city located in Wetzel County, West Virginia, along the Ohio River. With a population of 5,186 at the 2020 census, New Martinsville is a small but vibrant community that offers a great standard of living. The city is the county seat of Wetzel County, providing residents and visitors with access to a range of government services.
New Martinsville has a range of parks and recreational facilities, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is also home to a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as cultural events throughout the year. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, New Martinsville has something to offer for everyone.
The city is also home to a range of historical landmarks and museums, providing residents and visitors with the opportunity to explore the rich history of the area. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, New Martinsville offers a welcoming community and a range of attractions and activities.
Interstates
Interstate 77
Interstate 77 (I-77) is a major north-south highway in West Virginia, extending for 187.21 miles (301.29 km) between Bluefield at the Virginia state line and Williamstown at the Ohio state line. The highway serves several major cities in West Virginia, including Charleston, the capital and largest city in the state, as well as Princeton, Beckley, and Parkersburg.
I-77 follows the entire length of the West Virginia Turnpike, a toll road that runs between Princeton and Charleston, and it runs concurrently with I-64 between Beckley and Charleston. The West Virginia Turnpike was originally a two-lane road with treacherous curves and a tunnel.
Construction began in 1952, several years before the Interstate Highway System was funded, and it was only in 1987 that the entire length of the turnpike was upgraded to Interstate standards. Due to the difficulty and lives lost in construction, it has been called “88 miles of miracle”.
Interstate 79
Interstate 79 (I-79) is a major north-south highway in West Virginia that begins at a three-way directional Y interchange with I-77 along the northwest bank of the Elk River just northeast of Charleston. For its first 67 miles (108 km) to a point just south of Flatwoods, I-79 is located in the watershed of the Elk River, which drains into the Kanawha River.
The highway crosses the Elk River at Frametown and again at Sutton and never strays more than about 15 to 20 miles (24 to 32 km) from it. I-79 serves several major cities in West Virginia, including Charleston, Clarksburg, and Morgantown, and it provides access to a range of attractions and amenities throughout the state. The highway is an important transportation artery for both commercial and personal travel, connecting West Virginia to neighboring states and beyond.
Interstate 81
Interstate 81 (I-81) is an important highway in West Virginia that crosses the Eastern Panhandle region, linking Virginia to Maryland. The Interstate Highway spans 26 miles (42 km) through Berkeley County, paralleling U.S. Route 11 (US 11) for its entire length. I-81 enters the state near Ridgeway, travels northeast, bypassing the city of Martinsburg, and leaves the state at the Potomac River, which serves as the state line.
The first solicitations for the construction of I-81 were published in 1959, with the first six miles (9.7 km) of freeway being opened in 1963, and the full length was completed by 1966. Today, between 45,000 and 60,000 vehicles use the freeway through the panhandle per day, making it a key transportation channel for both commercial and personal travel.
Interstate 64
Interstate 64 (I-64) is a major east-west highway in West Virginia, spanning 189 miles (304 km) and passing by the major towns and cities of Huntington, Charleston, Beckley, and Lewisburg. The highway is an important transportation artery for both commercial and personal travel, connecting West Virginia to neighboring states and beyond.
I-64 provides access to a range of attractions and amenities throughout the state, including outdoor recreation areas, cultural events, and historical landmarks. The highway is also a vital link for the transportation of goods and services, supporting the economy of West Virginia and the surrounding region. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, I-64 offers a convenient and efficient way to travel across the state.
Interstate 68
Interstate 68 (I-68) is a major highway that runs through the rugged and mountainous region of West Virginia. The highway begins at exit 148 on I-79 near Morgantown and runs eastward, meeting with US 119 one mile (1.6 km) east of its terminus at I-79. I-68 turns northeastward, curving around Morgantown, with four interchanges in the Morgantown area.
Leaving the Morgantown area, I-68 again runs eastward, intersecting WV 43, which provides access to Cheat Lake and Uniontown, Pennsylvania. The region of West Virginia through which the freeway passes is rural and mountainous, with several sections that have steep grades, especially near the Cheat River Canyon. The peak traffic density on I-68 in West Virginia is 32,900 vehicles per day at the interchange with I-79 in Morgantown, gradually decreasing further eastward, reaching a low point at 14,600 vehicles per day at the Hazelton exit.
Interstate 70
Interstate 70 (I-70) is a portion of the Interstate Highway System that runs through the Northern Panhandle of West Virginia, crossing Ohio County and the city of Wheeling. This segment is the shortest of all states through which I-70 passes, crossing West Virginia for only 14.45 miles (23.26 km).
The Fort Henry Bridge carries I-70 from Wheeling Island across the Ohio River and into downtown Wheeling before the freeway enters the Wheeling Tunnel. I-470, a southerly bypass of Wheeling and the lone auxiliary Interstate Highway in West Virginia, is intersected near Elm Grove. On average, between 27,000 and 53,000 vehicles use the freeway every day.
The I-70 designation was brought to the Northern Panhandle with the passage of the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956, and it was built as a controlled-access highway, bypassing portions of the old National Road. The first portions of I-70 in West Virginia were opened in 1963, and construction was completed in 1971. Today, I-70 provides a vital link for both commercial and personal travel, connecting West Virginia to neighboring states and beyond.
Highways
Route 11
U.S. Route 11 (US 11) is a major highway that spans 26.2 miles (42.2 km) across the Eastern Panhandle region of West Virginia. The highway enters the state near Ridgeway and crosses into Maryland just south of Williamsport. US 11 closely parallels Interstate 81 (I-81) for its entire length, providing an alternative route for both commercial and personal travel.
The highway serves several towns and communities throughout the region, including Martinsburg, Inwood, and Falling Waters. US 11 also provides access to a range of attractions and amenities, including outdoor recreation areas, cultural events, and historical landmarks. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, US 11 offers a convenient and scenic way to travel through the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia.
Route 19
U.S. Route 19 (US 19) is a major highway that runs through the heart of West Virginia, spanning from the Virginia state line at Bluefield to the Pennsylvania state line south of Mount Morris, Pennsylvania. The highway covers a distance of approximately 168 miles (270 km) and passes through several towns and cities, including Beckley, Summersville, and Clarksburg.
US 19 provides access to a range of attractions and amenities throughout the state, including outdoor recreation areas, cultural events, and historical landmarks. The highway is an important transportation artery for both commercial and personal travel, connecting West Virginia to neighboring states and beyond. Whether you’re a resident or a tourist, US 19 offers an easy and beautiful way to travel through central West Virginia.
Route 33
U.S. Route 33 (US 33) is a major highway that spans 248 miles (399 km) across the state of West Virginia, extending from the Ohio River at Ravenswood to the Virginia state line atop Shenandoah Mountain west of Harrisonburg, Virginia. The highway passes through several towns and cities, including Ripley, Weston, and Elkins.
US 33 provides access to an array of attractions and amenities throughout the state, including outdoor recreation areas, cultural events, and historical landmarks. The highway is a key transportation artery for both commercial and personal travel, connecting West Virginia to neighboring states and beyond. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, US 33 offers a brilliant way to travel through the heart of West Virginia.
Route 35
U.S. Route 35 (US 35) is a major highway that spans across West Virginia, extending from its southern terminus at I-64 in Putnam County to the Ohio state line atop the Silver Memorial Bridge. As of November 11, 2021, the final West Virginia portion of the highway has been expanded to four lanes, mostly along a completely new route.
US 35’s junction with I-64 is a hybrid semi-directional T/diamond interchange, handling movements between I-64 and the US 35 spur similar to a diamond interchange. The route continues as an expressway, passing through several intersections and interchanges, including one with West Virginia Route 34 (WV 34) and another with WV 869, which travels across the Kanawha River on the Lower Buffalo Bridge. At WV 2, there is a partial cloverleaf interchange with six ramps, and US 35 becomes a freeway, immediately crossing the Ohio River on the Silver Memorial Bridge and entering Ohio.
Route 40
U.S. Route 40 (US 40) runs for 16 miles (26 km) through the Northern Panhandle region of West Virginia, following the old National Road that predates the U.S. Highway System. The highway enters the state on the Military Order of the Purple Heart bridge concurrent with US 250, crossing Wheeling Island, before joining Interstate 70 (I-70) over the Fort Henry Bridge and leaving the interstate.
US 40 travels north around Wheeling Hill, passing through the northeastern suburbs of Wheeling, Triadelphia, and Valley Grove before entering Pennsylvania. Along the way, the highway provides access to a range of attractions and amenities, including historical landmarks, cultural events, and outdoor recreation areas.
US 40 is an important transportation artery for both commercial and personal travel, connecting West Virginia to neighboring states and beyond. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, US 40 offers a convenient and scenic way to travel through the Northern Panhandle of West Virginia.
Route 50
U.S. Route 50 (US 50) is a major highway that spans across West Virginia, running from the border with Ohio to Virginia and passing briefly through Garrett County, Maryland, while following the Northwestern Turnpike. Prior to the U.S. Highway System, it was West Virginia Route 1, and in the 1930s, the road was not finished in Maryland.
Today, the section of US 50 from Clarksburg to Parkersburg on the Ohio River is part of Corridor D of the Appalachian Development Highway System. For much of its length, Route 50 roughly parallels the North Bend Rail Trail and crosses the trail at three places. US 50 provides access to a range of attractions and amenities throughout the state, including historical landmarks, cultural events, and outdoor recreation areas.
The highway is a chief transportation link for both commercial and personal travel, connecting West Virginia to neighboring states and beyond. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, US 50 offers a beautiful way to travel through the heart of West Virginia.
Route 52
U.S. Route 52 (US 52) skirts the western fringes of West Virginia, running from the Virginia state line near Bluefield, where it is concurrent with Interstate 77 (I-77), in a general northwest and north direction to I-64 at Kenova. From there, it turns east, overlapping I-64 for five miles (8.0 km) before splitting off onto the West Huntington Expressway into Ohio via the West Huntington Bridge.
Despite having an even number, US 52 is signed north–south in West Virginia, corresponding to the general westward direction of the highway. For much of its length, US 52 parallels US 23, which is on the other side of the Big Sandy River in Kentucky, continuing into Ohio where US 52 travels on the Ohio side of the Ohio River while US 23 travels on the Kentucky side.
Most of the route is being converted to a four-lane divided highway, designated as part of the I-73 and I-74 corridors, with the new highway referenced as the King Coal Highway from I-77 south of Bluefield to near Williamson and the Tolsia Highway from Williamson north to Kenova.
US 52 provides access to a range of attractions and amenities throughout the state, including historical landmarks, cultural events, and outdoor recreation areas. The highway is a principal transportation channel for both commercial and personal travel, connecting West Virginia to neighboring states and beyond.
Route 60
U.S. Route 60 (US 60) runs northwest to southeast across the central and southern portions of West Virginia, passing through several major cities and towns, including Huntington, Charleston, and White Sulphur Springs. The highway spans from the Kentucky state line at Catlettsburg, Kentucky, and Kenova to the Virginia state line, where it exits the state concurrently with Interstate 64 east of White Sulphur Springs.
Most of US 60’s route through West Virginia is part of and even signed in several areas as the Midland Trail, which is a scenic byway that offers access to a range of attractions and amenities, including historical landmarks, cultural events, and outdoor recreation areas. US 60 is an important transportation artery for both commercial and personal travel, connecting West Virginia to neighboring states and beyond. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, US 60 provides a great way to travel through the heart of West Virginia.
Route 119
U.S. Route 119 enters West Virginia from Kentucky as unsigned ADHS Corridor G, a four-lane limited-access highway stretching from Williamson to Charleston. The highway was completed in 1997, replacing the old US 119, which was a typical two-lane mountain highway. US 119 becomes a mostly two-lane highway north of Charleston, having functionally been replaced by Interstate 79.
Despite its winding course, US 119 provides access to a range of attractions and amenities throughout the state, including historical landmarks, cultural events, and outdoor recreation areas. The highway is a key transportation artery for both commercial and personal travel, connecting West Virginia to neighboring states and beyond. From Charleston, US 119 heads roughly east along the Elk River to Clendenin, where it turns north for 29 miles (47 km) to Spencer.
Along the way, it passes through Glenville and Weston, where it intersects parent route US 19 and replacement I-79. US 119 then heads towards Morgantown, passing through Grafton and joining with US 250 for 12 miles (19 km). Just south of Morgantown, US 119 intersects Interstate 68’s Exit #1, immediately east of its end at I-79, and enters Pennsylvania near Point Marion.
Route 219
U.S. Route 219 (US 219) is a part of the U.S. Highway System that spans from Rich Creek, Virginia, to West Seneca, New York. In West Virginia, the highway travels from the Virginia state line near Peterstown to the Maryland state line near Silver Lake. US 219 provides access to a variety of attractions and amenities throughout the state, including historical landmarks, cultural events, and outdoor recreation areas.
The highway is an important transportation link for both commercial and personal travel, connecting West Virginia to neighboring states and beyond. Along the way, US 219 passes through several small towns and communities, offering a glimpse into the state’s rich history and culture. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, US 219 offers a convenient and scenic way to travel through the heart of West Virginia.
Route 220
U.S. Route 220 (US 220) is a U.S. Highway that spans from Rockingham, North Carolina, to South Waverly, Pennsylvania. In West Virginia, the highway travels for 93 miles (150 km) from the Virginia state line two miles (3.2 km) south of Harper to the Maryland state line at Keyser. US 220 provides access to a range of sites and amenities throughout the state, including historical landmarks, cultural events, and outdoor recreation areas.
The highway is an important transportation artery for both commercial and personal travel, connecting West Virginia to neighboring states and beyond. Along the way, US 220 passes through several small towns and communities, offering a glimpse into the state’s rich history and culture. Whether you’re a resident or a tourist, US 220 offers a pleasing way to travel through the heart of West Virginia.
Route 250
U.S. Route 250 (US 250) is a United States Numbered Highway that runs from Sandusky, Ohio, to Richmond, Virginia. In West Virginia, the highway travels from the Ohio border in Wheeling to the Virginia border near Thornwood. US 250 provides access to a range of attractions and amenities throughout the state, including historical landmarks, cultural events, and outdoor recreation areas.
The highway is an important transportation artery for both commercial and personal travel, connecting West Virginia to neighboring states and beyond. Along the way, US 250 passes through several small towns and communities, offering a view into the state’s rich history and culture. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, US 250 offers a convenient and scenic way to travel through the heart of West Virginia.
Route 522
U.S. Route 522 (US 522) is a spur route of US 22 that spans across the states of Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. The highway runs in a north-south direction, covering a total distance of 308.59 miles (496.63 km) from US 60 near Powhatan, Virginia, to its northern terminus at US 11 and US 15 near Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania.
US 522 serves many small cities and towns in the Piedmont, Blue Ridge Mountains, and northern Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. The highway then follows the Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians north and then east through the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, a 2-mile-wide (3.2 km) stretch of Western Maryland, and South Central Pennsylvania to its terminus in the Susquehanna Valley.
Along the way, US 522 passes through several small communities, offering access to a range of attractions and amenities, including historical landmarks, cultural events, and outdoor recreation areas. Whether you’re a resident or a tourist, US 522 offers a tremendous way to travel through the heart of the mid-Atlantic region.
