Murals and Trout – The Public Art of Nature’s Mountain Playground

Pocahontas County, West Virginia, as is well-known, is often referred to as The Birthplace of Rivers and as Nature’s Mountain Playground. Some may even call it God’s Country. However, along with its stunning landscapes and seemingly unlimited array of outdoor activities, the county is also home to a kaleidoscope of building size images and colorful installations painted by human hands. Home to a burgeoning mural collection, the county boasts four new murals in the last two years. Not to mention its eight bicentennial trout statues, installed in 2021 to commemorate the anniversary of the county’s founding in 1821. Each trout symbolizes one of the eight rivers that call Pocahontas County the cradle of their confluence.

The Murals:  Walls as Canvas of Community Stories

Navigating through towns like Durbin and Marlinton, you’ll be greeted by vibrant murals that tell the stories of Pocahontas County’s rich heritage and history, as well as its outdoor adventurous present with an amicable welcome to mountain bikers. From the classic postcard motif, to creative and dreamlike expression, to reflective works about Duty and Honor, there are murals to appeal to a wide variety of viewer.

Art that Tells a Tale

Each mural has its own story, often inspired by the county or West Virginia’s unique history and its people. For example, the murals in Marlinton feature scenes from the early days of logging, the importance of the railroads, the inspiration of the landscape to its writers, to highlighting the underappreciated effects of the Civil War on women and families, to the ancient Allegheny mountains and rolling hills that define the region. Local and national artists have collaborated with community members to ensure that the county’s murals resonate with those who live here, creating a sense of ownership, pride and place.

A Drive Through History

Taking a mural tour is a perfect reason to come explore the Pocahontas County. Reimagine the interwoven relationship of art, natural beauty and history in real time as the country roads wind to the next mural. You may find with each bend in the road a new brush stroke with which to reflect on the images and art of the very recent past, as the picturesque present passes by. 

Eight Trout Statues: A Tribute to Tributaries

In addition to its murals, Pocahontas County is also home to an array of trout statues that celebrate the region’s love for fishing and its stunning streams and rivers. These quirky sculptures can be found throughout the county, serving as playful and even wayfinding landmarks for both locals and tourists.

Symbolism of the Trout

Trout fishing is more than just a pastime in Pocahontas County. And the trout statues are more than just symbols of Pocahontas County being a popular destination for anglers. They serve as reminders of the natural blessing that many streams in the region provide ideal habitats for trout and the delicate balance of natural conditions must be present for the catch and release of Goldens and Rainbows.

A River of Photo Opportunities

Each trout statue was uniquely painted by eight different artists who used one of the eight rivers born in Pocahontas County as inspiration: the Cherry, Cranberry, Elk, Gauley, Greenbrier, Tygart Valley, Williams Rivers, and Shavers Fork of the Cheat River. They make for perfect photo ops and mini-adventure for visitors to track down the trout representing the river that will commemorate the main adventure and memory made in Pocahontas County on that same river.

Contemplating Local Culture

Both the murals and trout statues symbolize the rich tapestry of Pocahontas County’s community spirit and pride in place. They showcase the talents of local artists and provide residents and visitors with even more cultural and place value with pleasant and thought provoking pictures that you might not really ‘see’ until that day you need it.

Come for Art, Stay for the Rest

The public art of Pocahontas County, WV is just another reason people Come for the Ride–and Stay for the Rest. Whether you’re admiring the detailed murals that honor the county’s history or posing with an eccentric trout, you’ll find that every corner of this beautiful county tells a story. Let Pocahontas County’s amazing natural and artistic beauty serve for artistic expression when you leave as well, even if the only paint you use is picturing the vivid memories in your mind. So, make a plan to find yourself in Pocahontas County. And when you arrive, make moments to explore these handmade colorful features—they’re not just sights to see, but stories to experience within your own inspiring travel story. Start planning your visit by requesting your Adventure Guide here!