Story & Photos by Matt Bayman
If you’re ever in the mood to visit Washington D.C. or Ocean City, Maryland, but don't feel like battling interstate traffic, there’s a lesser-known, yet straightforward alternative: U.S. Route 50. While it’s not the fastest or most convenient option, the journey along U.S. 50 is a true adventure—one filled with unexpected scenery, quirky roadside attractions, and a sense of freedom you just won’t find on the freeway.
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Stretching more than 3,000 miles from Ocean City to Sacramento, California, U.S. 50 cuts directly through Washington D.C., southern Ohio, and Cincinnati. Part of the original U.S. highway system established in the 1920s (and later incorporated into the broader network in the 1950s), U.S. 50 earned the nickname "The Loneliest Road in America," thanks mostly to the remote stretches in Nevada where towns—and even scenery—are few and far between.
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The portion between Cincinnati and Washington D.C., though a bit lonely at times (if by lonely you mean peaceful and lightly populated), is anything but barren. It winds through the Appalachian foothills and mountains, rural valleys, sleepy towns, and farming communities. Along the way, you’ll stumble upon odd roadside sights, rich history, and a slice of America you don’t experience on the Interstate.
The Pros and Cons
Like any real adventure, traveling U.S. Route 50 isn’t for everyone. Those prone to carsickness might struggle, especially in West Virginia and Virginia, where sections of the highway twist and turn for miles at a time. But once you get through these winding stretches, the drive becomes truly pleasant.
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The other challenge is the possibility of getting stuck behind a slow-moving logging truck on a two-lane section. However, with enough patience—and plenty of fascinating places to stop and explore—it hardly matters.
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Time-wise, if you stick to the traditional route from Dayton to Washington D.C. via Interstate 70, you’ll cover about 470 miles in roughly 7.5 hours. Taking U.S. 50 instead bumps the distance to about 500 miles and can stretch the trip to 10–12 hours.
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But if you have the time, the memories you’ll make along the way are well worth the extra miles.
Here’s some of what you’ll experience:
Ohio
Most travelers will take U.S. Route 35 to connect with U.S. 50 in Chillicothe. From there, the landscape quickly shifts as the road dives into the Appalachian foothills—and it stays that way. Along the route, you’ll pass through small towns like McArthur, Albany, and Athens before crossing the Ohio River into Parkersburg, West Virginia. Aside from a brief stretch through Dayton, the drive is remarkably peaceful, winding past several state parks, nature preserves, and miles of quiet countryside.
West Virginia
In Parkersburg, U.S. 50 begins as a four-lane highway and stays that way through Clarksburg—a stretch of about 70 miles. It’s a smooth, pleasant drive, running alongside the North Bend Rail Trail (pictured below), which is famous for its historic train tunnels and rustic Appalachian scenery. Several of the tunnels are easy to reach from U.S. 50, along with a scattering of quirky roadside attractions, excellent one-of-a-kind restaurants, fascinating local history, and magnificent mountain views.
Important Note: Just past the small village of Fellowsville, drivers will hit the first of several very curvy sections of the highway, much of it narrowing to a two-lane road. The stretch between Macomber and Aurora is particularly tough—so be ready for sharp turns, steep grades, and slow-going mountain driving. (The photo below right shows one of the harsh turns!)
Points of Interest
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Volcano Museum
Highlights the oil boom town of Volcano with exhibits, photographs and more. Open 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and 1-4 p.m. Sunday at 1014 Volcano Rd.
Stiles Mansion Ruins & Volcano Historic Boomtown Ruins
Just some rocky foundations remain today, but the areas are off-the-grid and kind of scary to visit!
Pattersons Tunnel
Visit one of the historic rail trail tunnels by exiting the highway at Bonds Creek Road (right) and then turning left at Fairmont Ridge Baptist Church (345 Fairmont Ridge Rd., Harrisville). Follow Hushes Run Road, which dead-ends directly at the tunnel entrance. Get out and explore this remote, historic place!
Tunnel #4
Another rail trail tunnel accessible just off of U.S. 50, this time by exiting at Long Run Road in New Milton.
Fort New Salem, 81 Settlers Ln., Salem
A reconstructed 19th-century Appalachian village set on a beautiful wooded hillside with a fort that features dozens of hand-hewn log buildings and cabins, offering a glimpse into the daily lives, craftsmanship, and culture of early settlers in the region. It hosts living history events, traditional craft demonstrations, and seasonal festivals that bring West Virginia’s frontier spirit to life.
Clarksburg
Believe it or not, Clarksburg is the second largest city you will pass through on this route. It has around 15,500 people! If you’re ready for food or sleep, it has plenty to offer.
Pruntytown State Farm Wildlife Management Area, Grafton
An unearthly nature preserve with a “haunted house” at its entrance!
Hometown Hot Dogs, 1312 W. Main St., Grafton
Worth the stop, right on U.S. 50!
Gump’s Black Bear Cabins, 298 Horseshoe Run Rd., Thornton
Tired? This cozy little cabin is right off of U.S. 50 and, better than a hotel, you can have a campfire!
Cool Springs Park, 12696 George Washington Highway, Rowlesburg
This nostalgic roadside attraction was established in 1929 by the same family that owns it today and offers a unique blend of history and charm. Visitors can explore a collection of antique farm equipment, vintage railroad artifacts and rustic vehicles scattered across the grounds. The park also features a general store and restaurant, known for its foot-long hot dogs and buckwheat pancakes. Families will enjoy the small petting area with animals like donkeys and turkeys, as well as a miniature train playground for children.
Old Stone Tavern, U.S. 50, Aurora
Built by Henry Grimes around 1825, the structure began operating as a tavern in 1841, serving travelers navigating the rugged terrain of the Northwestern Turnpike, which would one day become U.S. 50.
Cathedral State Park, U.S. 50, Aurora
Known for its towering ancient hemlock trees and lush, untouched wilderness, this 133-acre park offers a peaceful retreat with hiking trails, including the popular Cathedral Trail, which leads visitors through old-growth forest. The towering trees in this park are some of the oldest and tallest in the state, creating a cathedral-like atmosphere.
Maryland
As you drive through southwestern Maryland on U.S. 50, the journey is quick, but if you’re a fan of American comfort foods, take a moment to stop at Backbone Tavern (4676 U.S. 50, Oakland). But, within the blink of an eye, you’re back in West Virginia again…
West Virginia – Part 2
Skyline Overlook, 17356 U.S. 50, Elk Garden
A beautiful view of the Appalachian Mountains right on the highway.
Hoovers Bar & Grill, 75 U.S. 50, Keyser
If you love Sloppy Joe sandwiches, stop here! The restaurant is across the street from a popular farming and sporting goods store called Knobley Farm General Store.
New Leaf Greenhouse & Market, 34050 U.S. 50, Burlington
A very nice greenhouse and gift shop.
Koolwink Motel, 24350 U.S. 50, Romney
This vintage, retro and even kitsch motel is family owned and operated and very well-taken-care-of. It’s right off the highway and offers a nostalgic touch to this off-the-beaten path adventure.
Virginia
The two-lane road opens back up as U.S. 50 heads toward Winchester, which happens to be the largest city on this route, with about 27,500 people. The mountains also give way to flatter terrain, leading all the way into downtown Washington D.C., but not before passing…
Points of Interest
Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, 901 Amherst St., Winchester
This 50,000 square foot museum features several galleries that showcase the region's history through artifacts like furniture, textiles, folk art, and ceramics. It also contains the Glen Burnie Gardens, which offer a variety of themed areas, including rose, Asian, and water gardens and lots of sculptures and fountains. The gardens surround the historic Glen Burnie House, which traces its origins to the 1790s. Admission is $15.
Shenandoah Valley Civil War Museum, 20 N. Loundoun St., Winchester
Artifacts and prisoner graffiti in an 1840 building that relates the story of this north-south border town during the Civil War. Plan your visit at shenandoahatwar.org.
Patsy Cline Historic House, 608 S. Kent St., Winchester
The modest 2-story family home of country singer Patsy Cline, who lived here from 1948 to 1953. It includes a gift shop.
Abram’s Delight, 1340 S. Pleasant Valley Rd., Winchester
Built in 1754, Winchester’s oldest house, with colonial furnishings and art. Tours offered.
State Arboretum of Virginia, 400 BLandy Farm Ln., Boyce
Described by many as “absolutely beautiful,” this is a very peaceful place to stop and smell the roses.
Goose Creek Stone Bridge & Battlefield
Constructed between 1801 and 1803, this four-arch stone bridge spans approximately 212 feet across Goose Creek, making it the longest remaining stone turnpike bridge in Virginia. It is located off of U.S. 50 at Lemmon Bottom Rd., Middleburg. The bridge is part of the Battle of Upperville/Goose Creek Historic Park, which is open daily from dawn to dusk for self-guided tours.
Cheers! in Middleburg
Stay the night at a tavern or bed and breakfast in Middleburg and enjoy an evening at the Boxwood Estate Winery and Lost Barrel Brewing.
The Vineyards of Dover
Or drive a little further and lodge at the Briar Patch B&B and sample wines at 50 West, Cana and Chysalis vineyards, all closed near each other.
Wat Pa Nanachart, 40539 Little River Turnpike, Aldie
A beautiful Buddhist temple open to visitors.
Arlington National Cemetery
For the purposes of this article, U.S. 50 ends at Arlington National Cemetery, just a hop, skip and jump from the heart of Washington D.C.’s attractions, and almost entirely done without seeing a single Interstate or major city. To reach Ocean City, continue through the city and you’ll be there in no time!