West Virginia, nicknamed the Mountain State for good reason, rewards its visitors with scenic countryside views mile after mile. The state's eastern border with Virginia is rippled with the Appalachian Mountains, creating the wonderful terrain that makes West Virginia almost heaven. The Potomac Highlands simply refers to this eastern area, where the headwaters of the Potomac River begin. Starting out at the most northern point, the Potomac Highlands Scenic Drive heads south from Silver Lake and winds through the Monongahela National Forest. Next stop is one of the most picturesque destinations in the state, the Blackwater Falls State Park. This Picture of the Day shows off one of beautiful cascades in the park, Elakala Falls, a photographers delight. Shay Run, a small tributary, tumbles toward the Blackwater River, found nearby the park lodge.
Further to south, the drive leads to the Canaan Valley Resort State Park, part of a gorgeous high altitude valley, tucked into some of the highest peaks of the Allegheny Mountains. Dolly Sods and Seneca Rocks are two short side trips that shouldn't be missed. Remaining points along this trip include the Cass Railroad, Snowshoe Mountain and three additional state parks. Watoga, Droop Mountain Battlefield and Beartown State Parks finish up this 200 mile adventure.