The Tri-State River Festival in Kenova, West Virginia, offers a vibrant blend of outdoor excitement and riverside culture that pulls adventurers and families alike into its lively flow. Situated where the Ohio, Big Sandy, and Little Sandy Rivers cross paths, this festival stakes its claim on water-centered fun, local crafts, and community spirit. While not a hike in the traditional sense, the festival invites exploration along its riverfront trails and access to paddling, creating a dynamic playground for adventurers eager to engage closely with the rivers as they dare and push forward around the town.

The festival unfolds over several days, typically in early June, transforming Kenova’s waterfront into a hub of activities that highlight the power and beauty of these watercourses. It offers easy access for paddling enthusiasts—canoeing, kayaking, and even flat-water rafting—on calm yet spirited currents that invite both novices and seasoned boaters. Trails running alongside the rivers present forested canopies, patches of wildflowers, and occasional sweeping panoramas where the rivers meet the sky. These paths range from short strolls to longer loops approximating 3 to 5 miles, with gentle elevation changes that keep the experience invigorating without wearing down even casual walkers.

As you weave through festival booths and river edge trails, the sound of water rushing and wings fluttering punctuates the event, giving nature a voice that feels fiercely engaged and alive. The rivers challenge with subtle currents, daring paddlers to respect their flow but rewarding each effort with glimpses of kingfishers diving, turtles basking on logs, and the occasional eagle soaring overhead. To prepare, pack light but smart—waterproof footwear is advantageous if you plan to launch a kayak or walk riverside paths, and a refillable water bottle is essential to stay hydrated amid the June warmth.

Timing your visit for early mornings or late afternoons provides cooler temperatures and a golden light that softens the river’s edges. The festival’s schedule often includes races, live music, food vendors, and craftspeople displaying regional handiwork, grounding the adventure in community celebration. Parking and access points are well-marked, with shuttle services available during peak hours to minimize congestion near the riverside.

Unlike mountainous hikes, this festival highlights water as the adventure’s centerpiece. Still, the interaction between land and liquid is a dynamic dialogue: trails brush up against the river’s edge, and winds push leaves and waves in a continuous dance. Respecting this living system is part of the experience; keep an eye out for signage about conservation efforts that protect habitat and water quality.

Whether you’re paddling downstream under an open sky or wandering the festival pathways, the Tri-State River Festival offers a grounded yet spirited encounter with West Virginia’s rivers and community. It’s a chance to move with currents that are fiercely themselves and encounter a landscape that encourages connection, respect, and adventure.