Summersville to Elkins: A West Virginia Mountain Drive

The route from Summersville to Elkins traces the dividing line between the Allegheny Plateau and the higher Appalachians. This 50-mile stretch on US-19 and US-33 was once a key logging corridor, now transformed into a scenic byway through the Monongahela National Forest. The drive typically takes 1 hour 20 minutes without stops, but the question is it worth driving Summersville to Elkins is answered by the countless pull-offs and natural wonders along the way.

For a detailed methodology on planning such trips, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities. Below is a quick logistics table.

The journey begins at the Summersville Lake exit on US-19. From there, you'll head north through the towns of Birch River and Tioga, then turn east on US-33 near Ireland. The final 20 miles wind through the Monongahela National Forest before descending into Elkins.

Fuel and Route Economics – Gas stations are scarce between Summersville and Elkins. The last reliable fuel is in Summersville at the US-19 exchange, or 15 miles north in Craigsville. After that, no services until Elkins. Plan accordingly. Tolls: none.

• Summersville: Sheetz (exit 48 off US-19)
• Craigsville: Exxon at Rosedale Road
• Elkins: multiple stations on US-33

Road Quality – US-19 is a four-lane divided highway until Craigsville, then narrows to two lanes. US-33 is two-lane with moderate curves, well-maintained but occasionally rough in winter. Cell service is spotty between Craigsville and Elkins.

For those asking how long to drive Summersville to Elkins, the answer is under 90 minutes, but factor an extra 2–3 hours for stops.

Infrastructure Safety & Road Quality – US-19 has wide shoulders and rumble strips; US-33 lacks shoulders in sections. Watch for deer, especially at dawn/dusk. No major hazards, but bridges on US-33 can be narrow. Speed limits: 55–65 mph. Police presence is light.

Family and Child Suitability – This drive is excellent for families. Key stops include the Summersville Lake Recreation Area (swimming, playground) and the West Virginia Wildlife Center in French Creek (30 minutes east of Elkins). For a hands-on break, visit the Pocahontas County Airport Model Railroad at the Elkins museum.

• Summersville Lake: Picnic areas, boat rentals
• Feed the ducks at Tioga Town Park (mile marker 10)
• Elkins Depot: Train-themed play area

Pet-Friendly Framework – Most outdoor attractions allow leashed pets. Summersville Lake's trail is pet-friendly; the botanical boardwalk at Cranberry Glades permits dogs. Elkins has two pet-friendly hotels (Super 8 and Holiday Inn Express). Always carry water and clean-up bags.

Fatigue Management & Rest Zones – There are few rest areas. The official West Virginia Welcome Center on I-79 is out of the way. Instead, use the Summersville Lake overlook (benches) or the Cranberry Mountain Visitor Center (restrooms, picnic tables). Plan to stop every 45 minutes. For a nap, a quiet spot near the Holly River State Park (off US-33) offers shaded parking.

Hidden Off-Route Spots – Detour onto County Route 25 (Curtin Hill Road) for a view of the Williams River Valley. Another gem is the Little Laurel Dirt Trail (near the US-33 junction), a primitive path to a secluded swimming hole. For those seeking things to do between Summersville and Elkins, these hidden spots reward the adventurous.

The route passes through diverse ecosystems: mixed hardwood forests, limestone bluffs, and high meadows. The most prominent landmark is Summersville Lake, known as the "Little Bahamas of the East" for its clear turquoise water. Further north, the scenery becomes more rugged as you enter the Monongahela National Forest.

Natural Landscapes & Attractions

• Summersville Lake: Clifftop views from the dam overlook (38.253°N, 80.889°W)
• Cranberry Glades Botanical Area: A unique bog ecosystem 10 miles off US-39
• High Falls of the Cheat: A 25-foot waterfall near the US-33 junction (38.672°N, 79.854°W)

UNESCO World Heritage Sites – While none directly on the route, the nearby Gauley River National Recreation Area is part of the broader “Appalachian Waters” candidate. The region’s logging history is recognized in the Monongahela National Forest Interpretive Trail.

Climatic Conditions & Route Aesthetics – Summersville sits at 1,250 ft, Elkins at 1,930 ft. The drive climbs gently, with cooler temperatures at higher elevations. Fog is common in valleys from late fall to spring. Peak foliage occurs mid-October, transforming the drive into a canopy of orange and red.

Local Commerce & Culture – Small towns along the way offer handmade crafts, antiques, and local produce. In Richwood (just west of US-33), the Cranberry Mountain Visitor Center sells regional jams and honey. Elkins has a thriving arts scene thanks to the Augusta Heritage Center.

• Summersville: Local farmers market (Saturdays)
• Craigsville: The Old Bank Antiques
• Elkins: Gallery 62 (local artworks)

Culinary Infrastructure – Dining options are limited en route. In Summersville, try Pellegrini's Pizza for Italian fare. At mid-point, the Lost Spur Grill in Diana serves home-style burgers and pie. Elkins offers several restaurants, including Beanders (American) and C.J. Maggie's (pub grub). Pack snacks for the road.