If you are planning a trip to the Potomac Highlands, you might be looking for the best things to do in wardensville wv. At Blue Maple, we absolutely love this charming mountain town. It is the perfect place to unplug, explore nature, and enjoy amazing local food.
Whether you want to hike to breathtaking mountain views, shop for local crafts, or eat farm fresh meals, Wardensville has something for everyone. We have welcomed thousands of guests to our premium cabin rentals in West Virginia, and we are excited to share our top local recommendations with you.
Here is our guide to the best activities, shops, and restaurants in the Wardensville area.
Outdoor Adventures and Hiking trails
Wardensville is surrounded by national forests and beautiful state parks. This makes it a top spot for outdoor lovers. From challenging mountain climbs to peaceful lakes, there is plenty of nature to explore.
Wolf Gap Recreation Area
Wolf Gap Recreation Area sits right on the border of Virginia and West Virginia. It is the starting point for some of the best hiking trails in the region.
We love sending our guests here because the trails are well marked and the parking area has a convenient restroom. It is a peaceful place to start your morning hike before heading into town.
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Location: Wardensville, WV 26851
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Learn more about Wolf Gap Recreation Area
Big Schloss
Big Schloss is one of the most famous hikes you can access from Wolf Gap. This hike gives you amazing 270 degree views of the surrounding valleys.
Our guests often tell us that the first mile is very steep and challenging. However, they always agree that the stunning views at the rocky peak are completely worth the hard work.
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Location: Virginia 22644 (Accessed from Wolf Gap)
- Learn more about Big Schloss
💡 Local tip: If the parking lot at Wolf Gap is full, or if you want a slightly shorter hike, try the nearby Tibbet Knob trail instead. It offers similar beautiful views with fewer crowds.
Warden Lake
If you prefer relaxing by the water, Warden Lake is a wonderful spot to spend an afternoon. This 44 acre lake is regularly stocked with trout and provides a warm water home for bass and catfish.
Many of our guests bring their kayaks here for a peaceful float. The water is very calm, making it a great location for kayaking beginners and families with children.
- Rating: 4.4/5
- Location: West Virginia 26851
- Learn more about Warden Lake
Cranny Crow Overlook
Located a short drive away in Lost River State Park, the Cranny Crow Overlook is a must see. You will hike up to an elevation of 3,200 feet.
The trail is a steady uphill climb and can be quite rocky, so be sure to wear good hiking shoes. Once you reach the top, you can see five different counties across two states.
- Rating: 4.9/5
- Location: Mathias, WV 26812
- Hours: 8 AM to 10 PM daily
- Learn more about Cranny Crow Overlook
Local Shops and Artisans
Wardensville has a thriving small business scene. Taking a stroll down Main Street is a wonderful way to spend your day. You will find fresh baked goods, unique art, and friendly locals.
Wardensville Garden Market
This market is the heart of the community and one of our absolute favorite stops. It is a nonprofit farm that employs local youth and teaches them valuable business skills.
You can buy organic produce, fresh eggs, and some of the best baked goods in the state. Our guests constantly rave about their giant blueberry cinnamon rolls and homemade pepperoni rolls. It is also a very dog friendly spot!
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Location: 28813 WV-55, Wardensville, WV 26851
- Contact: (304) 470-8050
- Hours: Thursday through Monday, 8 AM to 6 PM
- Learn more about Wardensville Garden Market
💡 Good to know: Many of our pet-friendly cabins are located just a short drive from these amazing Main Street shops.
Dakota Glass Works
Dakota Glass Works is a wonderful place to see beautiful, hand blown glass art. Just like the Garden Market, this business supports local youth programs.
You can book a class to make your own glass piece. The instructors are incredibly patient and kind. It is a fun, hands on activity that the whole family will remember forever.
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Location: 273 E Main St, Wardensville, WV 26851
- Hours: Friday through Sunday, 9 AM to 4 PM
- Learn more about Dakota Glass Works
WordPlay
WordPlay is a delightful independent bookstore right in the middle of town. It offers a great selection of Appalachian literature, children’s books, and puzzles.
The owners are very welcoming and always give great book recommendations. It is the perfect place to grab a new novel to read by the fire pit back at your Blue Maple cabin.
- Rating: 5/5
- Location: 50 W Main St, Wardensville, WV 26851
- Hours: Thursday through Monday, 10 AM to 6 PM
- Learn more about WordPlay
Great Food and Dining
After a long day of hiking or shopping, you will definitely be hungry. Wardensville offers some fantastic dining options that feature fresh, local ingredients.
Mack’s Bingo Kitchen
Mack’s Bingo Kitchen serves up incredible American food using seasonal, organic ingredients. The restaurant has a cozy, modern mountain vibe and supports the local youth farming program.
The food is cooked over a wood fire right in front of the bar. Our guests love their steaks, sourdough hushpuppies, and deviled eggs. Please note that this is a no tip restaurant, as gratuity is already included in the menu prices.
- Rating: 4.9/5
- Price Level: $$
- Location: 155 W Main St, Wardensville, WV 26851
- Hours: Thursday through Saturday 5 PM to 9 PM, Sunday 10 AM to 1 PM
- Learn more about Mack’s Bingo Kitchen
The Lost River Grill
Just a short drive away in Lost City, The Lost River Grill serves classic, comforting home cooked meals. It has a relaxed, family friendly atmosphere with large portion sizes.
The staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming. We highly recommend trying their famous meatloaf, steamed shrimp, or their amazing cream pies for dessert.
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Location: 8079 WV-259, Lost City, WV 26810
- Learn more about The Lost River Grill
💡 Did you know? Wardensville also hosts an Annual Fall Festival with over 100 vendors, a car show, and a parade. It is the perfect time to plan a mountain getaway!
Plan Your Mountain Getaway With Us
Wardensville is truly a hidden gem in West Virginia. From hiking up Big Schloss to enjoying fresh pastries at the Garden Market, there is a perfect activity for every traveler.
At Blue Maple, we want your vacation to be as relaxing and memorable as possible. After a long day of exploring Wardensville, there is nothing better than returning to a cozy cabin. You can soak your tired muscles in a private hot tub, sit around the fire pit under the stars, or simply relax indoors with fast WiFi and modern comforts.
If you want to stay right in the Wardensville area, check out Nature’s Edge, our renovated mountain yurt with sweeping valley views. You can also explore our Lost River properties to find the perfect home base for your next adventure. We look forward to hosting you soon!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Wardensville, WV known for?
Wardensville is known for its beautiful outdoor recreation, charming local markets, and strong sense of community. It is a peaceful mountain town famous for hiking trails, farm to table dining, and the Wardensville Garden Market.
Is Wardensville good for a weekend getaway?
Yes, Wardensville is an excellent destination for a weekend getaway. It is very close to Washington DC and Baltimore, making it a quick and easy trip. The town offers a great mix of relaxing nature activities and cute local shops.
What to do in Wardensville?
Visitors love to hike at Wolf Gap Recreation Area, fish at Warden Lake, and shop on Main Street. Taking a glassblowing class at Dakota Glass Works or eating at Mack’s Bingo Kitchen are also very popular activities.
What is the number one tourist attraction in West Virginia?
While Wardensville has many great spots, the state’s most famous attractions are the New River Gorge National Park and Harpers Ferry. However, for a quiet mountain escape without the heavy crowds, the Wardensville and Lost River area is a top choice.