10 Best Things To Do Near Keyser, West Virginia (Mineral County)

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10 Fun Things To Do Near Keyser, West Virginia (Mineral County)

If you’re looking for a small-town getaway with big mountain views, Keyser, West Virginia is a great pick. Tucked in Mineral County in the Potomac Highlands, Keyser is the kind of place where you can slow down, breathe in fresh mountain air, and still find plenty to do within a short drive. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip from the East Coast, passing through on a road trip, or visiting family nearby, here are 10 things to do in and around Keyser that show off the best of this cozy West Virginia town and its beautiful surroundings.

1. Stroll Through Downtown Keyser & Canal Place

One of the best things to do when you arrive in a new town is simply to walk around. Downtown Keyser may be small, but it has a friendly, old-fashioned feel you don’t get in big cities. Take a slow walk along Main Street, check out the local shops, and pop into a café for a cup of coffee or a slice of pie. If you enjoy small-town architecture, you’ll notice older brick buildings that give Keyser its classic Appalachian charm. A short drive away, you can also visit Canal Place in nearby Cumberland, Maryland (about 25 minutes from Keyser). It’s a great spot for:
  • Shopping at small local boutiques
  • Grabbing lunch or ice cream
  • Learning about the C&O Canal history
It’s an easy half-day trip if you’re staying in Keyser and want a mix of shopping, food, and local culture.

2. Hike or Bike Along the Western Maryland Rail Trail & C&O Canal Towpath

If you love getting outside, you’ll find plenty of trails near Keyser. One popular option within easy driving distance is the C&O Canal Towpath, which runs along the Potomac River. From the Cumberland area, you can hop on the towpath for:
  • Walking – perfect for a relaxed family stroll
  • Biking – flat and beginner-friendly
  • Wildlife watching – look for birds, turtles, and deer
The scenery changes with each season. In the fall, the trees explode with color. In spring, everything feels fresh and green. If you’re coming from a busier city, the quiet along the river might surprise you. You don’t have to be a hardcore hiker to enjoy this area. Even a mile or two on the trail is enough to recharge.

3. Visit Jennings Randolph Lake for Fishing, Boating & Scenic Views

About 25–30 minutes northeast of Keyser, Jennings Randolph Lake sits right on the West Virginia–Maryland border. It’s managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and is a great place to enjoy the water. At the lake, you can:
  • Fish for bass, trout, and other species
  • Launch a boat or kayak from the ramps
  • Relax at the Overlook and take in long mountain views
  • Have a picnic at one of the designated areas
On a clear day, standing at the overlook and looking out over the blue water and forested hills really makes you appreciate how wild this region still feels. If you’re traveling with kids, pack a cooler, some snacks, and plan on a few hours at the lake. It’s an easy, low-stress outing from Keyser.

4. Step Back in Time at the Fairfax Stone & Headwaters of the Potomac

If you’re a history buff—or just love quirky landmarks—make time for the Fairfax Stone Historical Monument, about an hour south of Keyser. The Fairfax Stone marks one of the historic boundary points of the old Fairfax land grant and is considered one of the headwaters of the Potomac River. While the stone itself is simple, the story behind it connects to early colonial land disputes and mapping. Why is this a fun side trip from Keyser?
  • It’s a quick, easy walk from the parking area.
  • You get to say you’ve seen the “start” of the Potomac River.
  • It’s a unique photo spot, especially for history lovers.
Pair this stop with other sightseeing in the Potomac Highlands for a full day adventure.

5. Ride the Scenic Railroad in Nearby Cumberland, Maryland

Just across the state line from Keyser, the city of Cumberland, Maryland is home to the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, one of the most popular attractions in the region. This vintage-style train takes you on a scenic ride through the mountains to Frostburg, Maryland. Along the way, you’ll see:
  • Rolling hills and forested slopes
  • Old railroad bridges and tunnels
  • Classic small-town views
It’s a relaxing trip that appeals to all ages. If you’re traveling as a couple, the ride has a romantic feel, especially in the fall when the leaves are turning. Families with kids will love the old-fashioned train experience. Since Keyser is only about 20–25 minutes away, you can easily stay in Keyser and spend a day riding the train.

6. Enjoy College-Town Energy at WVU Potomac State College

Keyser is home to West Virginia University Potomac State College, which brings a little dose of college-town energy to this small community. Depending on the time of year, you might be able to:
  • Catch a baseball, soccer, or softball game
  • Attend a campus event, concert, or lecture that’s open to the public
  • Walk around the pretty hillside campus and enjoy the views
Even if you’re not a student or alum, campuses are often great places to take a walk, snap photos, or find a quiet spot to sit and read. Potomac State sits up above town, so you’ll get a nice look over Keyser and the surrounding hills.

7. Explore New Creek Mountain & Local Overlooks

If you enjoy scenic drives, you’ll love the roads around Keyser. Head up toward New Creek Mountain and the surrounding ridges for winding roads, pull-offs, and sweeping mountain views. You don’t need hiking gear to appreciate this area. Many overlooks are just a short walk from your car. On clear days, you can see ridges fading into the distance, layer after layer. For outdoor lovers, this is a great place to:
  • Snap sunrise or sunset photos
  • Go for a short hike along mountain trails
  • Look for wildlife like deer, hawks, and occasionally black bears
If you’re used to flat land or city life, the views near Keyser and New Creek Mountain remind you just how rugged the Appalachian region really is.

8. Day Trip to Dolly Sods Wilderness or Blackwater Falls State Park

If you’re up for a longer day trip from Keyser, two of West Virginia’s most famous outdoor spots—Dolly Sods Wilderness and Blackwater Falls State Park—are within reach, generally about 1.5 to 2 hours away depending on your route. Blackwater Falls State Park is known for:
  • A dramatic 57-foot waterfall cascading into a dark, tannin-colored gorge
  • Easy-to-moderate trails and boardwalks
  • Excellent overlooks for photos
Dolly Sods Wilderness feels almost otherworldly, with:
  • High-elevation bogs and rocky outcrops
  • Stunted spruce trees and open, sweeping views
  • Hiking that ranges from moderate to challenging
Both are popular with hikers and nature photographers. If you’re staying in Keyser for a few days, setting aside one day for a bigger adventure like this is well worth it.

9. Discover Local History at Area Museums & Historic Sites

While Keyser itself is quiet, the broader region around Mineral County and nearby Cumberland has a rich history tied to railroads, coal, and the Civil War. Depending on what’s open during your visit, check out:
  • Local historical societies in Mineral County for exhibits on coal mining and early settlement
  • Fort Ashby (about 20 minutes away), a historic frontier fort once part of a chain of defenses ordered by George Washington
  • Canal Place and museums in Cumberland that tell the story of the C&O Canal and the early transportation routes through the mountains
These stops add context to your time in Keyser. When you learn how hard people worked to build railroads and carve towns into this rugged landscape, you look at the region with new eyes.

10. Enjoy Classic Small-Town Food & Local Events

Part of the joy of visiting a place like Keyser is slowing down and enjoying simple things—like a hearty meal at a local diner or a community event in the park. Here are a few ideas:
  • Grab breakfast or lunch at a local café where everybody seems to know everybody.
  • Look for seasonal festivals, parades, or fairs in Mineral County—especially in the summer and around the holidays.
  • Visit farm stands or local markets for fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
Ask the person at the front desk of your hotel, your Airbnb host, or the cashier at the gas station where the locals like to eat. Small-town recommendations are often spot-on—and you might discover your new favorite comfort food spot.

Planning Your Trip to Keyser, WV

Keyser is a great base if you want quiet nights and starry skies but still be close to scenic train rides, lakes, hiking trails, and historic towns. It’s within reasonable driving distance of many East Coast cities, making it an easy weekend or long-weekend destination. A few quick tips:
  • Best time to visit: Late spring through fall, especially October for fall colors.
  • Pack layers: Mountain weather can change quickly, and evenings can be cool.
  • Bring comfy shoes: You’ll want them for walking trails, campuses, and small-town streets.
If you’re looking for a place that feels real, unpolished, and welcoming, Keyser and Mineral County deliver that classic West Virginia charm.

What Would You Do First Near Keyser?

Would you head straight for the scenic railroad? Spend a lazy afternoon at Jennings Randolph Lake? Or chase waterfalls at Blackwater Falls State Park? I’d love to hear how you’d spend your time in and around Keyser, West Virginia. Drop a comment below with your favorite Mineral County spot or any local tips you have. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend who’s dreaming about their next small-town mountain getaway.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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