MATEWAN, WV (LOOTPRESS) – West Virginia is home to many activities and experiences, but one in particular that is sure to make for a memorable experience is Hatfield & McCoy Airboat Tours located in Matewan.
The airboat tours were started after tour guide and owner, Keith Gibson, watched a television show. “I had planned to begin offering the tours summer of 2012 after Kevin Costner’s “Hatfields & McCoys” miniseries aired on The History Channel,” Gibson stated on the company’s website.
His vision was well on its way but life got in the way for a time. “The arrival of premature twin daughters put that plan on hold until their health crisis passed. From a crazy idea I had, here I am. People have [come] from far and near to ride my boat on the Tug Fork River,” Gibson explained.
The airboat tours are based out of the Matewan Depot replica building. Airboat tours are offered Tuesdays-Saturdays from 11 AM-6 PM. Tours can be arranged by appointment on Sunday afternoons and Mondays.
One can expect the airboat tour to last about an hour as you experience a memorable ride down the mighty Tug River and the surrounding sights of the Mountain State.
Tour guide Keith Gibson has lived in the Matewan area his entire life which has allowed him to develop a wealth of knowledge on Matewan, its history, and the famous Hatfield and McCoy feud.
Along with a detailed history lesson, passengers can also experience close-up looks at blue herons, kingfishers, mallards, Canada geese, turtles, beavers and other wildlife occupying the river, along with a goat that favors a rocky pillar towering over the stream.
The Matewan Depot is located at 328 WV-49, Matewan, WV 25678.
To book a tour with Hatfield & McCoy Airboat Tours, click here or call (304)-928-7702.
