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West Virginia is a state of contrasts, where natural beauty and human engineering come together in fascinating ways. From impressive heights to hidden depths, it’s a place that offers travelers the chance to explore both the towering landmarks above ground and the rich history beneath it. Two standout attractions in Beckley—just minutes from each other—illustrate this perfectly: the awe-inspiring Phil G. McDonald Bridge and the fascinating Exhibition Coal Mine.

Reaching New Heights: The Phil G. McDonald Bridge

Perched 700 feet above the ground, the Phil G. McDonald Bridge is a marvel of engineering and a testament to human ingenuity. Located along I-64 near Beckley, it’s the highest truss bridge in the world. Stretching across the lush Appalachian landscape, this steel giant offers a breathtaking view of West Virginia’s rolling hills and deep valleys. Whether you're driving across or admiring it from a distance, it's impossible not to be struck by its sheer scale and beauty.

The bridge, named in honor of Medal of Honor recipient and West Virginia native Phil G. McDonald, is more than just a road—it symbolizes the triumphs of modern construction, standing tall as an essential part of the region’s infrastructure. For locals and tourists alike, the bridge is a reminder of how far we've come in connecting communities once separated by rugged terrain.

Descending to the Depths: The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine

Just a short drive from the heights of the Phil G. McDonald Bridge lies a different kind of wonder: the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine. While the bridge symbolizes West Virginia’s future and connectivity, the coal mine is a tribute to its past, particularly its coal mining heritage, which played a central role in shaping the state’s economy and communities.

Here, visitors can ride through a real, vintage coal mine, guided by experienced miners who once worked deep underground. These veteran guides share personal stories of what life was like in the mines, the dangers they faced, and the industry’s impact on the region. The coal mine tour gives you an authentic glimpse into the gritty reality of West Virginia’s coal towns, where generations of miners toiled to fuel America’s growth.

After the tour, visitors can explore period coal camp buildings that replicate early 20th-century coal camp life. From the schoolhouse to the superintendent’s office, each building paints a picture of the community that thrived around the coal industry. It’s an immersive way to understand the harsh conditions miners endured and the close-knit bonds they formed with their families and neighbors.

A Journey Through West Virginia’s Past and Future

Though vastly different, the Phil G. McDonald Bridge and the Exhibition Coal Mine are both symbols of West Virginia's resilience and spirit. One represents how we’ve risen to new heights, while the other honors the legacy of those who worked in the depths to build a foundation for future generations.

In Beckley, you can experience the state’s contrasts in a single day—starting with a drive over the Phil G. McDonald Bridge to take in West Virginia’s stunning mountain scenery and ending with a trip underground at the Exhibition Coal Mine, where you’ll hear stories of courage, hardship, and community. It’s a reminder that West Virginia’s history is both high and low, a balance of nature’s grandeur and human grit.

Whether you're drawn to engineering marvels or want to explore the coalfields, Beckley is a perfect place to witness the heights and depths of West Virginia’s rich heritage. And no matter where your interests lie, these experiences will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the Mountain State’s journey through time.