Between tree-covered mountains along the upper reaches of the tranquil Great Kanawha River, Smithers’ location in central southern West Virginia harkens back to the times of the prehistoric Adena culture in the valley, native Americans, colonial settlers, and Coal as King. Named for an early settler, James Smithers, the town is on Rt. 60, designated as the Midland Trail National Scenic Byway and situated halfway between the State Capitol Charleston and the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and other surrounding outdoor recreation attractions. Smithers today stands as the Gateway to many historical and scenic sites, soon to include two new riverfront access Smithers parks and Mammoth Preserve, a public natural conservancy on the outskirts. Current events are listed on the City of Smithers Facebook page