About the Area
Have you ever considered owning a weekend or vacation property? Maybe you even searched for one on the Eastern Shore, Rehoboth or the Outer Banks but nothing felt like the right fit. Or perhaps you are ready for a different pace to life in a new full time residence. The Potomac Highlands of West Virginia and the Lost River Valley may be the answer!
Located only about two hours from Washington, DC, you may be surprised to find a vibrant and diverse community of single and coupled weekenders and transplanted full-timers like you. When you visit we will be happy to show off our little slice of the good life, so feel free to call or send an email.
The Blue Ridge Mountains to our east serve as natural barriers that keep the urban sprawl of surrounding metropolitan areas at bay while maintaining an authentic and pristine rural environment for our residents. Yet, as the expansion of the West Virginia intrastate highway system continues to our west, we will be linked to even more wonderful recreational opportunities in West Virginia such as the renowned ski resorts at Canaan Valley, Timberline and Snowshoe.
But our residents need not travel that far for great outdoor adventures. Right here you will find miles and miles of established hiking trails in the George Washington National Forest, horseback trail rides to spectacular scenic visitas in Lost River State Park, or exciting canoe runs through the "Trough" where bald eagles soar. However, if you're looking for crowds, congestion and traffic jams you will have to look elsewhere . . . you'll not find them here!
Lost River and the Potomac Highlands are worth a visit whether you stay for the weekend or for a lifetime.
- Lost River
- Lost River State Park
- Heritage Weekend
- Lost River Artisan's Cooperative and Museum
- Trout Pond Recreation Area
Steeped in history and rich in heritage, the people work hard to preserve and celebrate their land and their heritage. There are many historic sites and attractions as well as activities in and near the area.
Several years ago, the Inn at Lost River acquired the neighboring general store, restored it, successfully added it to the National Register of Historic Places, and now operates it as a seasonal coffee-sandwich-collectables shop.
Down the street, locals, weekenders and tourists gather at the Lost River Artisan's Cooperative to admire creative works in various media including wood working, stained glass, paint, weaving and more.
Also, at the Lost River Bar and Grill locals and weekenders alike mingle about local goings on while enjoying the work of local artisans, enjoying a hardy meal or swilling a cocktail or beer.
More recently, Raw Talent Ranch opened in the highlands above Lost River State Park and hosts individual and team touring cyclists training for competition or just learning the ropes of the sport. Following the tremendous success of the inaugural Lost River Classic bike race in July, 2009, the event has become an annual staple of the racing circuit.
Nestled in the wooded mountains of Hardy County, Lost River State Park encompasses 3,712 acres. A vast array of recreational facilities create a vacation getaway perfect for families. The park is home to Hidden Trail Stables and a large public swimming pool.
Visitors may rent charming but primitive log cabins during the spring, summer and fall for weekend or week-long stays. Miles of hiking trails wind through the mountainsides of the park for a vigorous workout. Don't miss the view from Cranny Crow Overlook which is accessible by foot or by horse on Hidden Trail Stables' two-hour trail ride.
Download the park's trail maps from its web site at Lost River State Park.
During the last weekend of September of every year step back into the past and enjoy tours of historic houses and farms, historical presentations, demonstrations of Appalachian crafts, craft markets, vintage quilt displays, art shows, a fiddle and banjo contest, bluegrass and mountain music at various venues, a rail excursion through rugged mountain passes and rich valleys and comforting country food. Communities in every corner of the county participate.
For current dates and event schedules, please visit the Heritage Weekend web site.
Tucked in the center of the Lost River Valley on route 259, the Lost River Artisan's Cooperative offers the finest in art, crafts, local canned goods, West Virginia wines, cookbooks, pottery, furniture, jewelry, baskets and iron works and much more. All from artisans in the surrounding Potomac Highlands and the Valley.
Throughout the spring, summer and fall the Artisan's Cooperative offers unique classes for all skill levels in media such as stained glass, water color, pottery. Please visit the Lost River Artisan's Cooperative web site for a list of their current offerings.
Trout Pond, named for the only natural lake in West Virginia, is a unique area of lakes and streams and mountains and sinkholes, all surrounded by the beautiful hills of West Virginia. Trout Pond offers swimming, boating (non-motorized), fishing and family playgrounds.
A comfortable campground complete with utilities, a bath house, and grills is available during the spring, summer and fall for overnight guests. Please visit the Trout Pond Recreation Area web site for information on reserving a camp site.
