It’s time to escape the daily grind with a weekend getaway to Virginia’s Heart of Appalachia. When you’re needing to recharge your batteries, there’s nothing more relaxing or as invigorating as an adventure trip to the mountains.

Just five to six hours from Washington, D.C., it’s too far away to get shepherded back for weekend work emergencies, yet close enough for a short weekend to unwind.

Whether you’re on board for the full adventure or prefer to handpick your experience for a bite-sized escape, there’s always something new to see and do around the region. With a wide array of activities, sights, eateries, and stays, there’s something for everyone. So, are you the adventurous type, looking for excitement? Or are you more chill, seeking a little R&R? Don’t worry. No matter your vibe, we’ve got you.

Off-road excitement awaits…

Warning: One of the area’s most thrilling and exciting experiences might require a change of clothes. Let’s head over to the Spearhead Trails’ Original Pocahontas OHV trail system!

With approximately 94 miles of trails spread out across 2,100 acres of dense Southwestern Virginia forests, the OP trail has a unique blend of both worlds.

On the surface, you might think it’s all mud-splashin’, turn-twistin’, excitement-around-every-corner kind of fun. And you’d be right. It is one heck of a ride, satisfying the thirst for exploration you never knew you had. Yet, it’s also serene and peaceful, being that deep in the mountains. With spectacular vistas and breathtaking views, where you can pull off and take a breather, the OP trail will leave its mark on you – mind, body, and soul.

Imagine it.

The same excitement of being in the back of your grandpa’s truck – wind taking your breath away, every bump a thrill jumping you out of your seat. And then, there you are at the top of a mountain, looking out at the blue-tinted peaks in the distance, perfectly at peace with the world below. Can’t you just hear the swooshing of the breeze and the birds in the distance? There’s nothing like that combination of adrenaline rush followed by a swell of tranquility.

And yes, rentals are available.

This one-of-a-kind adventure begins either in the little town of Pocahontas or just outside the community of Boissevain. Both trailheads offer distinctive lodging, sights, and restaurants. The Pocahontas Mine Exhibition & Museum, for example, is one stop you won’t want to miss.

Take a walk back in time…

The first of its kind in the world, the Pocahontas Mine Exhibition & Museum was first opened to the public in 1938. Today, it invites you deep into the belly of a 140-year-old mine that once fueled the American Navy, as well as homes across the U.S. Explore a 13-foot coal seam first mined in 1882 and learn how the industry operated in those early days of the 19th century.

Take a bite out of it…

Then, swing by the Ole No. 3 Restaurant & Bar for one of their gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. Take the Diablo Grilled Cheese, for instance. Sourdough bread topped with blackberry jam, bacon, provolone cheese, jalapeños, mayo, and caramelized onions offers the perfect mixture of heat and flavor that even non-spicy food lovers will enjoy.

For those who don’t typically go for grilled cheese, there are plenty of other options – from salads, burgers, and steak to seafood and pasta. Plus, try one of their signature cocktails, like the Miners Marg, the Dust ‘N Dirt martini, or the Black Hatter sangria.