Free Outdoor Recreation
With more than 1.5 million acres of public lands and more than 2,000 miles of trails, the Mountain State is the perfect place to leave the stress of work at home and find new meaning amid the fresh mountain air.
What exactly does free outdoor recreation mean?
In the Mountain State, you can go for a hike in your backyard or try your hand at high adventure with rafting, mountain biking and climbing. To help you explore your new home, all Ascend WV participants will receive a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities across the state through the Digital Outdoor Recreation Pass. This exclusive-to-members pass is valid for one year and begins either May 1 or November 1 to maximize our four seasons of adventure.
Once you’ve been accepted to the program, you’ll have the opportunity to opt in to either the May 1 or the November 1 start date.
We recommend that you choose a date with a good buffer after your expected move date, as you’ll want plenty of time to settle in before activating the pass (expires after 1 year).
This exclusive-to-members passport to adventure is valid for one full year within your two-year Ascend WV program period. With exhilarating experiences provided by outdoor partners from across the state, this is the perfect way for you to get to know the state of West Virginia on an intimate level. From whitewater rafting excursions to zipline adventures, you will have no problem jumping right in!
Ready to nail down your first road trip or plan the perfect adventure before you make the move? Get a head-start by checking out endless itineraries and inspiration from our friends at West Virginia Tourism.
Explore Ascend Featured Excursions
OFF-ROAD EXCURSIONS
Hit the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System for some rugged adventure off the beaten path. Whatever off-road vehicle you choose, you are sure to catch some speed on the trail.
ZIPLINE ADVENTURES
Soar through the looming tree-tops of West Virginia and release all of your cares to the wind. On this exhilarating flight, take in unbeatable scenic views and fresh mountain air.
RAFTING EXPEDITIONS
Carve through the mountains on a roaring river rapid as you enjoy a day on the water. Enjoy a whitewater heaven, where rafters gather from around the world.
GOLF GETAWAYS
Take a swing on the green for a golf getaway in Almost Heaven. With courses found throughout the state, there are plenty of fairways to choose from with spectacular mountain views.
SNOWY ESCAPES
Shred down powdered trails. Explore the mountains of West Virginia by skiing, snowboarding or tubing. When the snow begins to fall, winter sports in Almost Heaven are just getting started.
COZY STAYS
Enjoy a camping or lodge stay at one of West Virginia’s state parks and forests. No matter which park you choose to stay at, incredible adventures and lasting memories are sure to follow.
2 Years Of Free Outdoor Gear Rentals
Don’t have your own kayak to hit our waters in? No problem! Ascend WV participants will have access to outdoor gear rentals to be used with friends and family throughout the duration of the program. In the Ascend WV gear library you will find an array of equipment to really get acquainted with our mountains. Check out some bouldering equipment or grab a bike and hit the trail. Rent a tent or grab a paddleboard for a lakeside adventure. Find specialty equipment that will get you outside, on us.
West Virginia Outdoor Recreation By The Numbers
Related Frequently Asked Questions
I love to be outdoors. What adventure opportunities are there in West Virginia?
West Virginia is sitting on some of the best natural resources on the East Coast. With over 2,032 miles of whitewater in the state, an IMBA awarded mountain biking Silver Ride Center and over 4,000 rock climbing routes and bouldering problems in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve alone, year-round adventures await. In West Virginia, breathtaking views inspire us and mountain landscapes are always within reach, with an abundance of public lands and the nation’s newest National Park. Reach out to ascendwv@mail.wvu.edu for more information!
Explore More FAQsHow many spots are available?
The Ascend WV program is a long-term talent attraction program that will continue to evolve to include more mountain towns across West Virginia, so make sure you keep checking our website for updates! Reach out to ascendwv@mail.wvu.edu for more information!
Explore More FAQsWhere is West Virginia?
West Virginia is located in the heart of the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States and is within a day’s drive of many East-Coast favorites. Our Ascend WV communities are strategically located near major metropolitan markets for quick and convenient access for business travel. Reach out to ascendwv@mail.wvu.edu for more information!
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