Mystery Hole: Defying Gravity in Wild West Virginia
Experience gravity-defying illusions and offbeat wonder at the legendary Mystery Hole near New River Gorge.
Hidden just off the Midland Trail (U.S. Route 60) in picturesque Ansted, West Virginia, the Mystery Hole is one of America’s weirdest and most beloved roadside attractions. The site lures travelers, science buffs, families, and thrill-seekers to its tilted interiors with promises of gravity-defying antics and mind-bending optical illusions. Located a stone’s throw from the stunning Hawks Nest State Park and not far from the famed New River Gorge Bridge, the Mystery Hole stands as a testament to the joy of kitsch and the enduring appeal of the unexplained.
At a Glance
- Location: 16724 Midland Trail, Ansted, WV 25812
- Nearby: Hawks Nest State Park (1 mile west), New River Gorge National Park
- Open: May through October, weekends only (10:30am – 5:30pm)
- Tour Duration: 15–20 minutes, guided tours only
- Admission: $10 per person (subject to change)
- Accessibility: Not recommended for visitors with vertigo, heart conditions, or mobility challenges
History: The Origins of the Mystery Hole
The Mystery Hole dates back to 1973, when founder Donald Wilson opened its doors to delighted—and often bewildered—guests. Set in a converted auto garage, the attraction captured the spirit of classic roadside Americana, combining playful illusions with eccentric décor.
After decades of entertaining and mystifying tourists, the site closed briefly following Wilson’s death in 1996. Sadly, vandalism and neglect took their toll on the beloved spot until new ownership revived the Mystery Hole, restoring its quirky glory and essential weirdness.
A Legacy of Weirdness
- Proudly reminiscent of old Route 66-style roadside wonders
- Features a chopped-in-half Volkswagen Beetle seemingly crashed into the side
- Decor evokes classic sideshows and magical tourist traps
- Has baffled guests for over 50 years
What Is the Mystery Hole?
The Mystery Hole is best described as a gravity-defying chamber built at an angle, creating an environment where the familiar laws of physics seemingly go haywire. Guests entering the main “hole” will encounter rooms where balls roll uphill, people lean impossibly far without falling, and water flows at improbable slants. The interior design – with floors, ceilings, and walls built on an exaggerated slant – amplifies the perception of altered gravity.
Signature Features
- Slanted Rooms: Walking inside immediately distorts balance and spatial awareness.
- Optical Illusions: Everyday objects appear to defy gravity – water flows sideways, balls roll up instead of down.
- Interactive Demonstrations: Tour guides perform a series of stunts that challenge guests’ senses and skepticism.
- Whimsical Decor: A quirky gift shop stuffed with oddities, art, and memorabilia.
Why Does the Mystery Hole Work?
From a scientific perspective, the effects are due to clever construction rather than paranormal activity. The rooms are tilted at extreme angles, which confuse the brain’s processing of vertical and horizontal cues, creating striking visual and sensory illusions known as the gravity hill effect.
| Optical Phenomena | Visitor Experience |
|---|---|
| Gravity appears reversed or altered | People feel off-balance |
| Objects move in unexpected directions | Guests remain skeptical, curious, or delighted |
| Water seemingly flows uphill | Tour guides use props for comic effect |
The Tour Experience
All visitors must join a guided, timed tour to enter the Mystery Hole. The experience lasts roughly 15 to 20 minutes and typically includes a lively guide explaining the site’s history, conducting demonstrations, and inviting guests to participate in illusions.
Tour Highlights
- Humorous commentary and interactive stunts
- Surreal spatial sensations as members walk, lean, or toss objects
- Quirky rules – phones, cameras, and video equipment are strictly prohibited
- Final souvenir stop at the gift shop
The gift shop itself is a delightfully chaotic den of kitsch, featuring Mystery Hole t-shirts, trinkets, local crafts, and a small collection of roadside oddities that echo the main attraction’s weird legacy.
Who Should Visit?
The Mystery Hole appeals to a wide range of visitors, including:
- Families looking for offbeat fun
- Fans of Americana and roadside art
- Travelers exploring the New River Gorge region
- Those intrigued by science, illusions, or the unexplained
Important Safety Notices
- Not recommended for individuals prone to vertigo, motion sickness, or heart conditions
- Accessibility is limited – steep steps and slanted floors make navigation difficult for those with mobility aids
- “Not responsible for accidents or after-effects” – enter at your own risk
Reviews: From Delight to Disbelief
Visitor feedback ranges from total amazement to tongue-in-cheek skepticism:
- Many describe it as a “throwback,” relishing the weird charm and comic unpredictability.
- Some visitors find themselves lost, disoriented, or locking their keys in their cars due to excitement.
- Others regard it as a “waste of money,” skeptical about the simple slanted-room construction and dust-laden decor.
- Tour guides are sometimes praised for their humor, but a handful of reviews mention disappointing attitudes.
Reviewer Highlights
- “Definitely worth a stop if you’re in the area. Tour is $10 for a 15 minute tour.”
- “I thought the weird gravity thing was cool but it gave me a headache.”
- “Not responsible for accidents or after effects. People with heart ailment or vertigo – DO NOT ENTER!”
- “Walking to the hole… there are old items from a garage sale. The hole is just a room built on a slant… you cannot take pictures or even bring your phone.”
Nearby Attractions
The Mystery Hole forms a delightful detour for anyone exploring New River Gorge National Park or scenic Fayette County:
- Hawks Nest State Park: Boasting dramatic views of the New River and exhilarating jetboat rides, this natural wonder is just a mile away.
- Cathedral Falls: A breathtaking roadside waterfall nearby.
- New River Gorge Bridge: Iconic destination for thrill-seekers and photographers.
Planning Your Visit
To make the most of a trip to the Mystery Hole, remember these practical tips:
- Check hours before arrival: Open only seasonally (May–October) and on weekends.
- Bring cash: Some visitors report limited card acceptance.
- No photography is allowed inside: Respect the quirky rule for full immersion in the experience.
- Linger in the gift shop: Unique souvenirs await!
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Mystery Hole “a gravity hill”?
Rooms and passageways inside the Mystery Hole are constructed at steep angles, producing optical illusions that trick guests into believing gravity is reversed or altered. This phenomenon is related to similar roadside attractions known as gravity hills.
Is Mystery Hole suitable for kids and seniors?
Most children love the strange fun, but seniors and those with balance or heart issues should take caution. The slanted floors may be challenging for those with limited mobility.
Are group tours available?
Guided tours are standard and can occasionally accommodate small groups. Please contact Mystery Hole in advance for specific arrangements.
Can I take photos inside?
No photography or electronics are permitted within the main attraction. This rule preserves the mystery and encourages guests to experience the illusions directly.
How do I get there?
Mystery Hole is located at 16724 Midland Trail in Ansted, West Virginia, easily accessible by car and within two miles of Hawks Nest State Park.
The Enduring Allure of Roadside Kitsch
The Mystery Hole remains a beloved icon of roadside entertainment, capturing the spirit of classic Americana and the playful challenge of perception. Its offbeat charm continues to delight generations of curious travelers, inspiring laughter, debate, and above all, wonder. As gravity (and perhaps reason) momentarily lose their grip inside its slanted walls, guests are reminded that sometimes the greatest joys lie in the unexpected and unexplained.
Essential Visitor Information Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 16724 Midland Trail, Ansted, WV 25812 |
| Season | May to October |
| Hours | Saturday & Sunday, 10:30am–5:30pm |
| Accessibility | Limited – steep steps and slanted floors |
| Photography | Not permitted inside |
| Nearby Attractions | Hawks Nest State Park, Cathedral Falls, New River Gorge Bridge |
References and Additional Resources
- Mystery Hole Official Website
- New River Gorge CVB
- West Virginia Tourism Board
- TripAdvisor Reviews
- Wikipedia: Mystery Hole
