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Highway 20: Princeton to Hinton, Pipestem and Bluestone, West Virginia
Photo: Smithh05 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · cropped

Drives West Virginia West Virginia and Western Maryland

Highway 20: Princeton to Hinton

WV 20, Oakvale Road · Princeton → Hinton

Leisurely30 mi45 min1,600 ft climbHigh point ≈ 2,700 ftOne way
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The drive

WV 20 starts at the traffic circle in Princeton around the Mercer County courthouse and heads north into Summers County. Concord University is in Athens and Pipestem Resort State Park is along the road, and the route ends at Hinton on the New River.

It is about 29 miles of rolling curves and ridge views, with moderate traffic.

Hinton is the gateway to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, and Sandstone Falls is just north of town.

Along the way

  1. Princeton
  2. Pipestem
  3. Hinton
Elevation
1,600 ft of climbing · high point ≈ 2,700 ft
PrincetonHinton
Curves
Mostly gentle, with one twisty stretch
PrincetonHinton
GentleHairpins

Good to know

  • Traffic is moderate, with local and truck traffic.
  • Pipestem Resort State Park is on the route; the park has its own fees and hours.
  • WV 20 is the longest state route in West Virginia.

Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check WV511.

Questions about this drive

How long is WV 20 from Princeton to Hinton?

It is 29.5 miles and takes about 47 minutes.

What are the highlights on WV 20 between Princeton and Hinton?

Athens, Pipestem Resort State Park and Hinton on the New River.

Is WV 20 the longest state route in West Virginia?

Yes. WV 20 runs about 256 miles from Bluewell to New Martinsville.

What you get in the app

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More drives near here

All 15 drives in West Virginia ›

Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.

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Map of Highway 20: Princeton to Hinton, from Princeton to Hinton