Exploring Logan, West Virginia: A Guide To Its History And Landmarks
Picture this: over a million twinkling lights cascading down the mountainside like a waterfall of pure seasonal glow.
Ready to discover what makes this mountain one of the state’s most beloved winter traditions?
Disclaimer:
This seasonal travel guide is intended for general informational purposes.
Local operations, event schedules, and access conditions may change, especially during holiday periods or due to weather in mountain regions.
1. Welcome To Logan: Your Gateway To Holiday Wonder
Before reaching the glittering spectacle, travelers roll through the charming town of Logan nestled deep in coal country.
This small Appalachian community serves as the launching point for the glowing drive ahead.
Friendly locals point visitors in the right direction as anticipation builds leaving Main Street behind.
The journey truly begins in the City of Logan, centered around 219 Dingess Street, Logan, West Virginia 25601.
2. The Legendary C&O 2755 Steam Locomotive
A massive Chesapeake & Ohio steam engine stands like a steel monument to the golden age of railroads.
During the lighting season, this historic locomotive becomes a favorite photo stop as lights shimmer around its iron frame.
Kids press their noses to car windows to admire the mechanical giant that once hauled coal through these same mountains.
The C&O 2755 can be spotted along Little Buffalo Creek Road (County Highway 10/02), near Henlawson, West Virginia 25624.
3. Chief Logan’s Towering Tribute
Rising above the landscape stands a powerful statue honoring Chief Logan, the Mingo leader known for eloquence and courage.
The monument reminds visitors that Native American history runs deep across the hills surrounding Logan.
During the season of lights, it becomes a solemn figure overlooking the glowing celebration around the valley.
The statue stands along Little Buffalo Creek Road just outside Logan, West Virginia 25601.
4. The Guyandotte River’s Peaceful Flow
Winding through the valley, the Guyandotte River reflects the steep Appalachian slopes that cradle the Logan area.
By day, it’s a peaceful waterway perfect for quiet moments.
By night during the lighting season, the surrounding hillsides shine above the dark water like a living mirror.
The river can be viewed near downtown Logan and West Logan close to monitoring location USGS 03203600.
5. Downtown Logan: Valley Charm From Above
Viewed from the hillsides, downtown Logan spreads across the valley like a patchwork quilt of storefronts and rooftops.
Mountains embrace the town tightly on all sides, giving it that classic Appalachian character.
Seeing the valley layout helps explain how the seasonal lights climb the slopes, turning the night landscape into a glowing panorama.
The view centers around Stratton Street and Dingess Street in Logan, West Virginia 25601.
6. Logan’s Skyline Against The Hills
Another classic skyline shot shows Logan tucked neatly between steep ridges that define coal country.
These are the very hillsides that illuminate during the lighting season, creating a bright sweep of color above the quiet valley streets.
Businesses twinkle below while illuminated slopes rise above – an entire community shining together.
The vantage typically overlooks the business district near Stratton and Dingess Streets.
7. Historical Marker: The Story Behind The Name
A roadside historical marker explains Chief Logan’s legacy and the region’s deep Indigenous history.
These markers dot the landscape, offering short lessons that add meaning to a nighttime drive through the mountains.
Taking a moment to read one enriches the experience and honors the land’s earliest communities.
One key marker stands along Little Buffalo Creek Road near Logan, West Virginia 25601.
8. Devil Anse Hatfield’s Final Rest
Logan County also holds a famous piece of Americana: the grave of Devil Anse Hatfield, patriarch of the legendary Hatfield–McCoy feud.
Travelers who come for the lights often take a short detour to visit this storied cemetery tucked into the mountains.
It’s a reminder that the region’s past runs deeper than any seasonal glow.
The grave is located at the Hatfield Family Cemetery along West Virginia Route 44 near Sarah Ann, West Virginia 25644.
