Memorial Day Weekend Fun in Pendleton County
Memorial Day weekend is the perfect time to explore the natural beauty and outdoor fun in Pendleton County, West Virginia. Whether you’re into outdoor thrills or just looking to chill, this itinerary offers the best of the area. Get ready for an adventure!
Friday
Explore Seneca Rocks & Triangle Rock
Start by heading to the iconic Seneca Rocks. Make a pit stop at Yokum’s Store first to grab a six pack of Swilled Dog for later and some snacks before you hike to the top of Pendleton County’s most well known landmark. It’s a bit of a climb with an uphill slope, but you can reach the large observation deck in less than an hour. Trust us, the views are worth every step!
Next, hop over to Triangle Rock, a unique geological formation and lesser known swimming hole that’s perfect for a quick dip to cool off after the hike. It’s just up Route 28 from Seneca Rocks, less than a ten-minute drive.
Evening: Camp at Swilled Dog
After soaking up some of the best views West Virginia has to offer, make your way to our Tasting Room in Upper Tract. Swilled Dog isn’t just an award-winning distillery and cidery; we’re also a Harvest Hosts location. Park your RV and settle in for a night under the stars. Don’t have a Harvest Hosts membership? No problem! There are several cozy Airbnbs and cabins for a comfortable stay. Plus, all local lodging guests get 10% off their tab at Swilled Dog when they show their reservation confirmation to our staff (excludes spirits).
Saturday:
Morning: NRocks Via Ferrata
Kick off your Saturday with an unforgettable adventure at NRocks Via Ferrata. This one-of-a-kind experience offers a mile of fixed-anchor, professionally-guided rock climbing. Over 3.5-5 hours, you’ll gain 1085 feet in elevation, cross a suspension bridge that’s 150 feet high and 200 feet long, and reach exposed heights of 280 feet. It’s an adrenaline rush like no other and you’ll definitely want to toast to conquering such a thrilling feat! On the way back, be on the lookout for the Germany Valley Overlook for some more amazing roadside views.
Afternoon: Live Music at Swilled Dog
After an exhilarating morning, return to Swilled Dog for live music by Joe Crites from 1-4 PM. Joe Crites is a musician from West Virginia who blends traditional country with rock, blues, bluegrass and more! Relax with a cold cider or cocktail, enjoy the lively atmosphere, and treat yourself to a guided whiskey, bourbon and gin tasting. Be sure to grab a growler of our cider, a bottle or two of our award-winning spirits, and browse our wide range of merchandise as a souvenir to take home with you.
Evening: Picnic at Smoke Hole and Live Music at Shreve’s Country Store
In the evening, unwind with a serene picnic at Smoke Hole. The nature views along the river are stunning. As the sun sets, make your way to Shreve’s Country Store for live music by Blazing Rose from 7-10 PM. The tunes, the vibrant community spirit, and the Memorial Day celebrations with the locals are just what you need to end your day. If you miss them on Saturday, you can catch them again on Sunday evening from 7-10 PM.
Sunday
Morning: Explore Spruce Knob
Start with a scenic hike at Spruce Knob, the highest point in West Virginia at 4,863 feet. Enjoy the spectacular 360-degree views from the observation tower and take a leisurely walk along the wide range of backcountry nature trails. Don’t miss the rock garden — it’s a photographer’s dream!
Afternoon: Hit the River in Smoke Hole Canyon
One of the best ways to see Smoke Hole is to paddle the 25-mile section from U.S. 220 north to Petersburg. It is for experienced paddlers only, with mostly Class 2 and Class 3 paddling. If you’re looking for a more leisurely float, the Big Bend loop is approximately 1.3 miles and the stream here is more calm. Tubes are available for purchase at Shreve’s Country Store.
Monday: Departure
As your Memorial Day weekend winds down, it’s time to pack up and say goodbye to beautiful Pendleton County. You’re leaving with memories of epic adventures, lots of beautiful pictures, and plans to return soon.
Pendleton County is the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and local charm, making it an awesome spot for your Memorial Day road trip. Start and finish your journey at Swilled Dog, and dive into all the natural beauty and fun activities this area has to offer. For more tips on planning your trip, check out the Pendleton County Convention & Visitor’s Bureau website.
Cheers to an unforgettable weekend!
Printable Itinerary
Friday:
Seneca Rocks, WV-28, Seneca Rocks, WV 26884
Triangle Rock, 27 Dolly Town Rd, Seneca Rocks, WV 26884
Swilled Dog, 28 Industrial Park Rd, Upper Tract, WV 26866
Saturday
NRocks Via Ferrata, 141 Nelson Gap Rd, Circleville, WV 26804
Swilled Dog, 28 Pendleton County Industrial Park Rd, Upper Tract, WV 26866
Shreve’s Country Store at Smoke Hole, 15 Big Bend Rd, Upper Tract, WV 26866
Sunday:
Spruce Knob, Spruce Knob Trail, Riverton, WV 26814
Smoke Hole, 15 Big Bend Rd, Upper Tract, WV
For more information, visit the Pendleton County Convention of Visitors Bureau
Major routes to access Pendleton County include State Routes 220, 28, 33, and 42.
Check local weather and prepare accordingly.
Have fun and enjoy your adventure!