Question:  I'm flying into Lexington, Kentucky for a couple of days, then driving into Morgantown, West Virginia to visit someone.  I'm taking my time getting there.  Any suggestions?? I'm leaving June 22 and I don't have to be in Morgantown until June 26.  I'd like to make the most of it.  Can AAA help me?

Answer: Wayne Northey, frequent traveler and president of the West Virginia Region of AAA East Central, says that for someone with a taste for the outdoors, the New River is just the spot.  Take exit 96 off I-64 south of Charleston, WV and travel US-60 as it winds its way through mountain valleys and parallels the Gauley River.  Hawks Nest State Park with 31 lodge rooms is located in Ansted and is the base for jet boat excursions accessed via an aerial tramway that take you beneath the New River Gorge Bridge.  Trips leave every hour or so but they are closed on Wednesdays.  Each October the bridge is closed to vehicular traffic so hundreds of jumpers may parachute 876 feet to the water’s surface.  The New River is also home to whitewater rafting.  US-19 is a 4-lane beauty that heads north to I-79 and Morgantown; Summersville is approximately 20 miles north of the Bridge and home to several chain restaurants and motels.  The Stonewall Resort with 198 lodge rooms is located 2 miles off I-79 at exit 91 in Roanoke, WV.  The AAA Four Diamond lodge is situated on a lake that is a favorite for boaters; boat and kayak rentals are available, as is hiking, golfing and swimming (indoor/outdoor pool).  The resort also houses Stillwaters Restaurant, a AAA Three Diamond facility.  Lakeside seating is a seasonal option.  We hope you enjoy your drive through West Virginia.