Terra Alta, WV

Perched high in the Allegheny Mountains of eastern Preston County, Terra Alta lives up to its name, which translates to "high land." Sitting at roughly 2,600 feet, this small community offers crisp mountain air, noticeably cooler summer days, and scenic, snowy winters. The town originally grew as a bustling railroad stop and summer retreat, and today it appeals to people looking for a relaxed, quiet setting among the rolling ridges of northern West Virginia.

ATTRGeneric1139 / CC BY-SA 3.0

Life in Terra Alta centers around a tight-knit community and easy access to the great outdoors. Classic brick buildings still anchor the town center, while neighboring Alpine Lake Resort provides convenient spots for hiking, fishing, and golf. Longstanding traditions, like the big Fourth of July celebration organized by the volunteer fire department, bring neighbors together throughout the year. For anyone considering a move, it is an affordable, scenic mountain haven with plenty of open space.