Pipestem Resort State Park
A vast West Virginia park offering stunning gorge views, a unique tram ride, diverse hiking, and abundant outdoor activities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Pipestem Resort State Park
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast West Virginia park offering stunning gorge views, a unique tram ride, diverse hiking, and abundant outdoor activities.
"This place is amazing! Plenty to do and see, with spectacular views everywhere you look."
🎯 Book Tram Rides Ahead
Secure your spot on the unique aerial tram to the Bluestone Gorge lodge by booking in advance.
👟 Choose Trails Wisely
Research trail difficulty; some, like Lower Indian Branch, are strenuous.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Aerial Tramway to Bluestone Gorge
Pipestem Resort State Park
Ride the tram down through the gorge for unique lodge access and stunning riverside views.
Almost Heaven Swing
Near the golf clubhouse
Find one of WV's iconic 'Almost Heaven' swings for a breathtaking photo op with mountain vistas.
Lower Indian Branch Trail
Nature Center
Tackle this strenuous 4.4-mile trail for rewarding waterfall views and a challenging hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tram Ride Early
Trail Difficulty Varies
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tram Rides Ahead
Secure your spot on the unique aerial tram to the Bluestone Gorge lodge by booking in advance.
👟 Choose Trails Wisely
Research trail difficulty; some, like Lower Indian Branch, are strenuous.
📸 Find the 'Almost Heaven' Swing
Head to the golf clubhouse area for this iconic photo spot.
🏊♀️ Enjoy Park Amenities
Campers can use the lodge's indoor pool and sauna for a small fee.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tram Rides Ahead
Secure your spot on the unique aerial tram to the Bluestone Gorge lodge by booking in advance.
👟 Choose Trails Wisely
Research trail difficulty; some, like Lower Indian Branch, are strenuous.
📸 Find the 'Almost Heaven' Swing
Head to the golf clubhouse area for this iconic photo spot.
🏊♀️ Enjoy Park Amenities
Campers can use the lodge's indoor pool and sauna for a small fee.
🛶 Lake Activities Available
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming are popular in the summer.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Pipestem Resort State Park's stunning natural beauty, diverse activities, and unique features like the aerial tram. The campground and lake amenities are frequently praised, though some guests have noted that the lodge facilities could benefit from renovation. Phone reservations can sometimes be challenging to secure.
"Camped 4 nights in October 2025 and just love the campground - nicely spaced sites with shade available. Bathe house is clean and easy to access. Beautiful! And SOOO much to do! We took a trail ride for an hour on two very sweet horses. There is a great heated indoor pool and sauna at the lodge available for minimal fee for campers (free to guests at the lodge if course) and a beautiful lake for kayaking, paddle boarding and swimming in the summer. We hiked down the river trail and waded the Blue, then took the gondola back to the top. Super fun! We didn’t play disc golf, mini golf nor use the 18 hole course but they looked great. The Nature center was educational and has 3 live snakes and some turtles plus lots of educational material. Didn’t try the restaurant as we did our own cooking but looked good. Didn’t try the archery or zip line but will next time. The views were gorgeous! Highly recommend this park!"
Jane Bycroft
"We need to get up here more often! This place is amazing! Plenty to do and see. Many activities on location as well as within driving distance. Lots of waterfalls in the area. Full restaurant on site with a couple cafes too."
R.B. Lockwood
"Came here for the first time this weekend. We stayed at the lodge in the park. We explored the entire park and enjoyed every aspect! The hiking was amazing and we also enjoyed going down to check out the lake. The views are spectacular everywhere you look. I definitely recommend to ride the tram down to see the mountain creek lodge area, the bluestone river area is so incredibly beautiful!"
Tracy Vest
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pipestem Resort State Park is located in Pipestem, West Virginia. It's accessible by car via WV-20. The park is about a 3-hour drive from Charleston, WV, and a 4-hour drive from Pittsburgh, PA. GPS coordinates can be helpful for navigation.
Public transportation options directly to Pipestem Resort State Park are limited. It is best to travel by car. Renting a car is recommended for exploring the park and surrounding areas.
Within the park, driving is the primary mode of transport between different areas. For specific attractions like the Bluestone Gorge lodge, the aerial tramway is the unique way to descend. Hiking is also a great way to explore the park's trails.
The closest major airport is Raleigh County Memorial Airport (BKW) in Beckley, WV, which is about an hour's drive away. Other options include Yeager Airport (CRW) in Charleston, WV, or Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) in Pennsylvania, both further drives.
No, the Mountain Creek Lodge area at the bottom of the Bluestone Gorge is primarily accessed via the aerial tramway. This unique ride offers scenic views as you descend.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entrance fee to access Pipestem Resort State Park itself. However, certain activities and amenities, such as the aerial tramway, golf, and potentially specific events, may require separate tickets or fees.
Tram ride prices can vary, and special promotions have occurred, like $5.55 rides during the park's birthday. It's best to check the official West Virginia State Parks website or call ahead for current pricing and operating hours.
Yes, booking accommodations at the lodge or campgrounds in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons like summer and fall, to secure your preferred dates.
Park grounds are typically open year-round, but specific facilities like the lodge, restaurants, and the aerial tramway have seasonal operating hours. It's advisable to check the official Pipestem Resort State Park website for the most up-to-date information.
Discounts may be offered for certain activities or during special events, such as the $5.55 tram rides mentioned for the park's anniversary. Keep an eye on the park's official announcements for any available deals.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the strenuous Lower Indian Branch Trail for waterfall views,
Activities include hiking, horseback riding, ziplining, fishing, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, disc golf, mini-golf, and exploring the Nature Center. The aerial tramway is also a major attraction.
Yes, there is a beautiful lake for swimming in the summer. Campers can also access the lodge's heated indoor pool and sauna for a small fee.
The Nature Center is educational, featuring live animals like snakes and turtles, along with informative displays about the park's natural environment.
The 'Almost Heaven' swing is located near the golf clubhouse. Look for it to the right of the parking area if you've found the tennis courts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a full-service restaurant on-site, the Bluestone Dining Room, known for good food and friendly staff. There are also a couple of cafes available.
The Bluestone Dining Room offers a buffet-style dining experience, with some visitors noting it as very good. It's a convenient option for park visitors.
If you are camping or staying in a cabin, you will likely have facilities to prepare your own meals. Many visitors opt for cooking their own food.
Besides the main restaurant, there are a couple of cafes available within the park, offering lighter fare or snacks.
The Mountain Creek Lodge, accessible by tram, also offers dining options, though the specific details might vary. The Bluestone Dining Room is a primary recommendation.
📸 📸 Photography
The aerial tram ride offers stunning gorge views. The 'Almost Heaven' swing provides iconic mountain vistas. Hiking trails often lead to scenic overlooks and waterfalls.
Sunrise and sunset often provide the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Summer sunsets are particularly magical here.
The overlooks from the lodge area, especially after riding the tram down, offer beautiful perspectives of the Bluestone River. Any high points along the hiking trails will also yield great shots.
Yes, the aerial tram provides a unique vantage point for capturing photos of the Bluestone Gorge as you descend and ascend.
The park is ideal for landscape photography, nature photography, and capturing scenic vistas. It's also a great spot for lifestyle shots, especially with the 'Almost Heaven' swing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Consider shorter, easier hiking trails that are less strenuous for little legs. The aerial tram ride is also a unique and exciting experience for children, offering a novel way to see the park.
Many visitors find the park's campgrounds and cabins to be family-friendly options for accommodation. 💰 Budget Travelers
While some activities like ziplining have associated fees, many of the park's core attractions, such as hiking, exploring the Nature Center, and enjoying the lake, are free or low-cost. Look out for potential special promotions on activities like the tram ride.
couples
Hiking hand-in-hand on trails with breathtaking vistas, especially during sunset, can be incredibly romantic. Consider a stay at the lodge for comfortable amenities or a secluded cabin for added privacy. Enjoying a meal at the Bluestone Dining Room with its scenic views can also be a lovely part of a couples' getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Bluestone Gorge via Tram
Once at the bottom, you can explore the lodge area and enjoy the peaceful riverside setting. It's a fantastic way to access a different perspective of the park's natural beauty. Many visitors find this tram ride to be a highlight of their visit, especially for those who want to experience the gorge without a strenuous hike.
It's important to note that the tram operates seasonally and has specific hours, so checking its availability and booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, particularly during peak travel times.
Hiking Adventures for Every Level
For those seeking less demanding walks, numerous other trails wind through the park's forests and along the Bluestone River. These offer opportunities to immerse yourself in nature, spot local wildlife, and enjoy the scenic beauty of West Virginia. Always wear appropriate footwear, carry water, and check trail conditions before setting out.
Many trails offer stunning vistas, especially during the fall when the foliage is at its peak. Remember to consult park maps and consider your own abilities when choosing a trail to ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.
Activities Beyond Hiking
Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the park's 18-hole course, and there are also options for disc golf and mini-golf. The Nature Center provides an educational experience with live animals and exhibits, making it a great stop for families.
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