By road
Motorcyclists will tell you that the best way to see the state is definitely by motorcycle. The warnings about hairpin curves and smaller country roads do apply, but those roads are motorcycling nirvana - endless curves and elevation changes. The state even encourages motorcycle tourism, offering pamphlets with suggested tour routes.
By car
The best way to see the state is definitely by driving, as West Virginia is generally lacking in reliable statewide public transportation. Many towns are basically inaccessible except by car, as is some of the best scenery. But be careful â off the main highways, the roads often loop around the mountaintops, which makes for some stunning views but also requires careful driving. Hairpin curves around mountain roads are not to be taken at high speeds, and the smaller country roads don't always have guard rails. Many such turns are also at steep inclines - make sure you engine brake and obey all speed limit signs. Do not follow too closely to coal trucks, lest your windshield be cracked by falling hunks of coal.
By train
There are several scenic train lines, if you want to view some of West Virginia's picturesque landscapes from the comfort of an excursion train:
The Cass Scenic Railroad (http://cassrailroad.com/) offers trips on a restored locomotive near Marlinton in Cass.
The Durbin and Greenbrier Valley Railroad (http://mountainrail.com/) has several picturesque lines that travel through the eastern part of the state.
New River Excursions
(http://newrivertrain.com/) offers fall foliage trips through the New River Gorge Valley.The New River Gorge Mystery Train (http://themysterytrain.com/) boards passengers primarily in Huntington, Charleston, Beckley and White Sulphur Springs for scenic day, overnight or weekend trips to West Virginia beauty spots or historic destinations in the eastern US.
The Potomac Eagle (http://potomaceagle.info/) in Romney follows the course of the Potomac River on weekends from May through September, and daily for three weeks in October.
By bus
Although there aren't any statewide bus lines, many of the metropolitan areas have their own inter-area bus systems.
Lakefront Lines (http://lakefrontlines.com/) also offers a daily service between Parkersburg and Charleston.