Take a scenic ride through the rugged beauty of northern West Virginia as we follow Interstate 68 from the Maryland State Line to its western end in Morgantown. This 32-mile drive cuts through the wooded ridges of the Allegheny Mountains, tracing a path that offers travelers a blend of raw Appalachian scenery, modern freeway engineering, and historic touches that hint at the region’s rich heritage.
Our journey kicks off at the Maryland-West Virginia border, just west of Friendsville. Almost immediately, we pull into the West Virginia Welcome Center perched on the hilltop—a perfect first stop to stretch our legs and take in panoramic views of the landscape. Here, the highway dives into Coopers Rock State Forest, a 12,747-acre expanse of rolling hills and dense hardwood forests. The forest is named after the legend of a fugitive cooper who lived among these rocks and crafted barrels, and its scenic overlooks are among the most famous in the state. From the interstate, you can catch glimpses of the steep hollows and craggy outcrops, the highway weaving through cuts blasted into ancient sandstone.
Continuing westward, we roll along the wide, curving lanes of I-68, watching the hills rise and fall in steady rhythm. The route passes through some of the highest elevations on the Interstate system east of the Mississippi River, and the air feels just a little crisper here. Before long, we cross Cheat Lake, its blue waters glinting in the distance, and arrive at the interchange with West Virginia Route 43—the Mon-Fayette Expressway. This toll road serves as a connector to Uniontown, Pennsylvania, offering a link back toward the industrial history of the region, while I-68 presses onward into the heart of the Mountaineer State.
As we push west, the landscape subtly shifts. The mountains soften, the grades become less severe, and we begin to sense the approach of the Morgantown metropolitan area. Towering hills give way to broad, forested valleys, and more frequent signs of civilization appear along the roadside. Exits lead to suburban communities and university neighborhoods, and before we know it, the skyline of Morgantown peeks through the trees. The final few miles are dominated by the buzz of city life as we descend towards the terminus of I-68 at Interstate 79. Morgantown, home to West Virginia University, blends Appalachian tradition with youthful energy, making it a unique endpoint to our trip.
Interstate 68 might not stretch for hundreds of miles, but this segment captures a vivid cross-section of Appalachian West Virginia. From the sweeping vistas of Coopers Rock to the urban edge of Morgantown, the road offers a snapshot of the state’s natural beauty and cultural vibrancy. Whether you’re just passing through or making this route your destination, the drive reminds us that even short journeys can be packed with memorable sights and experiences.
🗺️ Route Map
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