Thomas, West Virginia

Driving through the Allegheny Mountains in West Virginia is a visual treat. The smaller highways are tree-lined and the leaves are just starting to change on some trees. We couldn’t get a campsite at Blackwater Falls State Park, but stopping to see a popular waterfall there was along our travel route to Front Royal, VA. But, as we came through the small town of Thomas, WV, we found a street crowded with cars and lined with shops that looked inviting. We stopped and had a grilled cheese lunch with a delicious cookie included at one of the local cafes.

Almost Heaven…

Blackwater Falls State Park was a short drive on down our route. We parked in the overflow lot and enjoyed a paved/boardwalk path to the eponymous Blackwater Falls that are close to the visitors center.

This is when the lyrics of a popular song can hamper one’s understanding of geography. “Almost heaven, West Virginia, Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah River…”; these lyrics made me think these features are in West Virginia, but they really aren’t. The section of the Appalachians in WV are the Allegheny, and most of the Shenandoah River is in VA. Tony looked this up and assured me that I’m not the first person to question these lyrics.

Front Royal

Front Royal, VA is the northern terminus to the Skyline Drive that runs through Shenandoah National Park, our next destination. We stopped at Eastham Park, a very shady paved walk/bike path on the west side of Front Royal. It also has a huge dog park that seemed very popular. The trail side book was about dogs and fire hydrants. This section of the Shenandoah River is slow moving, shallow and very clear. It would be a good kayak place and had a boat ramp nearby.

Harvest Host once again provided us with a night’s stay in a parking lot behind Turnmeyers, a gift shop. We supported this business with a few gift items purchased. A suggestion by the clerk lead us on a short walk to Vibrissa Beer and Kitchen for a supper with several vegetarian options.

The town square was nearby, and as we continued walking after supper, a police officer stopped us to make sure we weren’t parked on Main Street which was being closed for a religious parade and ceremony in the park.