10 Best Short Road Trips from Cross Lanes, West Virginia

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10 Easy Road Trips From Cross Lanes, West Virginia (That Are Worth the Drive)

If you’re based in Cross Lanes, WV and feeling a little stir-crazy, you’re in luck. Within about an hour or so, you’ve got mountains, rivers, state parks, waterfalls, and some very classic small-town West Virginia charm. The best part? These are all out-of-county road trips—so you’re leaving Kanawha County behind for a day (or a weekend) and exploring the best of nearby Boone, Clay, Fayette, Jackson, Lincoln, Nicholas, Putnam, Raleigh, and Roane Counties. Below are 10 short road trips with things to do near Cross Lanes, all easy to reach by car and perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers.

1. New River Gorge National Park – Fayette County

If you only do one day trip from Cross Lanes, make it this one. The New River Gorge National Park in Fayette County is about a 1–1.5 hour drive, and it feels like stepping into a postcard.
  • Distance from Cross Lanes: Around 60–70 miles, roughly 1–1.5 hours by car
  • Best for: Hiking, scenic views, photography, adventure lovers
Things to do: On my first visit, I remember pulling up to the overlook and just standing there in silence. Photos really don’t do that gorge justice. If you need a reset from everyday life in Cross Lanes, this is the place.

2. Hawks Nest State Park – Fayette County

Just a bit north of the New River Gorge area, Hawks Nest State Park offers some of the most dramatic river views in West Virginia.
  • Distance from Cross Lanes: About 55–65 miles, around 1–1.25 hours
  • Best for: Short hikes, overlook views, easy nature time
Things to do:
  • Stop at the main Hawks Nest overlook for classic river-and-mountain scenery.
  • Ride the seasonal aerial tramway (when running) down toward the river.
  • Take a short hike on one of the park’s trails for quieter viewpoints.
If you don’t have all day, this is a great “half-day” trip. You can grab a coffee in the morning in Cross Lanes, drive out, enjoy the views, and be home in time for dinner.

3. Summersville Lake & Gauley River Area – Nicholas County

Looking for a lake day? Summersville Lake in Nicholas County is clear, deep, and ringed with rugged rock cliffs. It’s a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
  • Distance from Cross Lanes: Around 70–80 miles, usually 1.5 hours or so
  • Best for: Swimming, boating, kayaking, rock climbing, relaxing by the water
Things to do: On a hot July day, this place feels like a totally different world compared to sitting at home in Cross Lanes with the air conditioner humming. Pack a cooler, some snacks, and sunscreen, and make a full day of it.

4. Little Beaver State Park & Beckley Area – Raleigh County

Head south toward Raleigh County and the Beckley area for easy trails, lake views, and a small-town feel.
  • Distance from Cross Lanes: Roughly 65–75 miles, about 1–1.25 hours
  • Best for: Walking, picnics, families, light hiking
Little Beaver State Park highlights:
  • Walk or bike the easy trails around the lake.
  • Have a picnic at one of the many tables near the water.
  • Cast a line and do a little fishing if that’s your thing.
You can also pair your park visit with time in the Beckley area—grab a meal, explore local shops, or just cruise around town. It’s an easy-going day trip when you don’t feel like tackling super-steep trails.

5. Kanawha Falls & Cathedral Falls – Fayette County

Waterfall lovers, this one’s for you. While you’re headed toward the New River Gorge area, make time for Kanawha Falls and Cathedral Falls, both in the general Fayette County region.
  • Distance from Cross Lanes: About 45–55 miles, around 1 hour
  • Best for: Scenic stops, quick walks, photos
Things to do:
  • Stop at Kanawha Falls overlook for a wide, powerful waterfall right off the road.
  • Walk the short path to Cathedral Falls, where water spills down a tall rock amphitheater.
  • Pack a small picnic and enjoy the sound of rushing water.
These spots are great if you want to be outside without a tough hike. If you’ve got visitors in Cross Lanes and only a few free hours, this combo makes for an easy and impressive mini-road trip.

6. Winfield & the Kanawha Riverfront – Putnam County

For something closer and more laid-back, head to Putnam County, especially around the Winfield area. You’ll find a slower pace and peaceful river views.
  • Distance from Cross Lanes: Around 20–30 miles, about 30–40 minutes
  • Best for: Short drives, river views, casual exploring
Ideas for your visit:
  • Drive along the Kanawha River through Putnam County and stop at roadside pull-offs.
  • Stretch your legs at local parks and riverfront spots.
  • Grab a bite in nearby towns and make it a relaxed, no-rush outing.
This is the kind of trip you take on a Sunday afternoon when you just want a change of scenery but don’t feel like packing hiking boots or a big cooler.

7. Spencer & Small-Town Charm – Roane County

If you enjoy exploring small towns, point your car toward Spencer in Roane County. It’s a classic West Virginia community with a cozy downtown.
  • Distance from Cross Lanes: Approximately 50–60 miles, around 1–1.25 hours
  • Best for: Wandering downtown, local history, slow-paced days
Things to do:
  • Stroll through downtown Spencer and browse local shops.
  • Check out area parks for a casual walk or picnic.
  • Time your visit with local events or festivals when they’re happening.
Small-town road trips are underrated. There’s something relaxing about just walking around, grabbing coffee, and seeing what you discover.

8. Ripley & Country Roads – Jackson County

Head northwest toward Jackson County and the town of Ripley for another dose of small-town West Virginia and pretty country roads.
  • Distance from Cross Lanes: Roughly 45–55 miles, about 1 hour
  • Best for: Scenic drives, local food, classic small-town feel
Ideas for your day:
  • Drive the back roads into Jackson County and enjoy the rolling hills.
  • Spend some time in Ripley’s town center and check out local spots.
  • Look for seasonal events, especially around holidays.
If you enjoy driving with the windows down, country music (or classic rock) on the radio, this one’s right in your wheelhouse.

9. Boone County Backroads – Boone County

Boone County is just south of Kanawha County and offers winding roads, deep hollows, and a real “heart of coal country” feel.
  • Distance from Cross Lanes: Varies by route, often 30–60 miles, 45–90 minutes
  • Best for: Scenic drives, photography, getting off the beaten path
Ways to enjoy Boone County:
  • Pick a route on the map, head south, and follow your curiosity.
  • Stop for views of mountain ridges and winding streams.
  • Bring a camera and capture old barns, backroads, and classic Appalachian scenery.
This is less about one main attraction and more about the ride itself. If you like to just “go for a drive,” Boone County is perfect for that.

10. Clay, Lincoln & Quiet Country Escapes – Clay & Lincoln Counties

For your final set of short road trips, look to Clay County and Lincoln County. They’re both within easy reach for peaceful day drives, especially if you’d like to get away from crowds.
  • Distance from Cross Lanes: Generally 40–75 miles depending on destination, 1–1.5 hours
  • Best for: Unplugging, low-key exploring, scenic roads
Clay County ideas:
  • Follow river valleys and explore the small communities dotted along the way.
  • Pack a lunch and pull over at a quiet roadside spot for a simple picnic.
Lincoln County ideas:
  • Take the lesser-traveled routes and enjoy views of forests and ridges.
  • Use the drive as a chance to disconnect—no big agenda, just the open road.
These are the kinds of trips that remind you how peaceful West Virginia can be, especially when you’re not on a strict schedule.

Tips for Road Trips From Cross Lanes, WV

  • Keep it flexible: Many of these spots are close enough that you can change plans if weather shifts.
  • Pack the basics: Water, snacks, a light jacket, and a phone charger go a long way.
  • Check hours: For visitor centers, boat rentals, and seasonal attractions, look up hours before you go.
  • Fill up first: Some backroad areas don’t have gas stations every few miles—top off in or near Cross Lanes.

Ready to Hit the Road From Cross Lanes?

Living in or near Cross Lanes, West Virginia puts you in a great spot for quick road trips. Within about an hour or so, you can:
  • Stand at the edge of the New River Gorge.
  • Swim in the clear waters of Summersville Lake.
  • Drive peaceful backroads through Boone, Clay, Lincoln, Roane, and Jackson Counties.
  • Visit small towns that feel a world away from busy highways.
If you’ve ever sat at home thinking, “There’s nothing to do,” consider this your sign to grab your keys and explore a new corner of the state. Now it’s your turn: Have you taken any of these road trips from Cross Lanes? Do you have a favorite spot in Boone, Clay, Fayette, Jackson, Lincoln, Nicholas, Putnam, Raleigh, or Roane County that I didn’t mention? Share your tips and stories in the comments—and if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends and family who are looking for fun things to do near Cross Lanes, WV. The more ideas we trade, the better our next weekend adventure will be.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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