Follow the presidential trail in West Virginia

Planning a visit to the US in January as President-elect Barrack Obama prepares to take office on January 20? Why not extend your visit beyond Washington D.C., with a scenic drive through one of West Virginia’s national scenic byways inspired by another revolutionary president – George Washington.

The Washington Heritage Trail escorts travellers through three historic counties in the Eastern Panhandle of the state: Jefferson, Berkeley, and Morgan. Only a short drive from Washington, D.C., this trail is filled with compelling history and geologic wonders that include the American towns of Berkeley Springs, Charles Town, Harpers Ferry, Martinsburg, and Shepherdstown.

The spa town of Berkeley Springs not only offers the healing powers of its spring water, but it is home to the infamous George Washington tub! It is also the venue for the three-month-long Festival of Waters, and the Berkeley Springs International Water Tasting, where cities and companies from all over the globe compete for the coveted gold seals that label the tastiest, municipal, bottled and purified drinking waters.

Charles Town, named for George Washington’s brother Charles who inherited the area in 1780, has many historic sites such as the courthouse where abolitionist John Brown was tried for treason.

Headquarters to the Appalachian Trail, Harpers Ferry has more features beyond its rich history. For those who appreciate history lessons, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park identifies six themes called the “Paths Through History” which weaves a comprehensive history of the town for visitors. The park includes a restored village and the ruins of an industrial area as well as access to the Blue Ridge via the Appalachian Trail. Additional points of interest include John Brown’s Fort, Harper Cemetery, and the site of Storer College.

In Martinsburg, visit the restored B&O Roundhouse which highlights the once much-contested railroad hub during the Civil War. Martinsburg is also a prime venue for biking, hiking, fishing, and golf. The Stonebridge Golf Club is one of the oldest courses in the area and is 5 minutes from downtown Martinsburg.

As the oldest town in West Virginia, Shepherdstown’s history includes the first successful steamboat demonstration in 1787 by James Rumsey. This is also where George Washington called him the “ingenious Mr. Rumsey.” It is home to the Contemporary American Theatre Festival.

Made famous from the John Denver ballad, Country Roads, West Virginia is conveniently located within an hour’s drive from Washington DC, as well regional access into its capital city Charleston from a number of US gateway cities. It is also served by two Amtrak routes through the state.

For more information, log on to Wvtourism.com.