Carter Caves State Resort Park
Discovered by settlers in the 1780s, this region is distinguished by its rock cliffs, natural bridges, and more than 20 caverns that include explored and unexplored sites. Guided cave tours are offered daily throughout the year at three of these, including the Bat Cave Nature Preserve, which has a flourishing population of rare bats within the cave; tours of this cave take place in the summer only.
Above ground, 20 miles of nature trails provide opportunities for hiking, and guided canoe trips on Tygart's Creek are available. Other water-based recreation can be enjoyed on the 45-acre trophy bass Smokey Valley Lake, where motorboats are prohibited. A large swimming pool is accessible just a half-mile from the lodge, and guided horseback trail rides offer another vantage point of the scenic park grounds.
