daily304 – Episode 07.29.2026

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Wednesday, July 29, 2026. #1 – From WV EXPLORER – West Virginia's best hikes take center stage From rugged mountain peaks to peaceful forest paths, West Virginia offers hiking experiences for every skill level. WV Explorer's 2026 ranking highlights some of the state's top trails, including favorites in the Monongahela National Forest, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Dolly Sods and Seneca Rocks. Whether you're chasing panoramic views, waterfalls or quiet woodland escapes, there's no shortage of places to discover in Almost Heaven. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/best-hiking-trails-in-west-virginia-ranked-2026/ #2 – From WV EXPLORER – Filmmaker sees bright future for West Virginia West Virginia's film industry continues to build momentum. Filmmaker and producer Jeff Tinnell says the Mountain State's diverse landscapes, talented workforce and expanding film incentives position it to compete for more television and movie productions. As more filmmakers discover West Virginia, industry leaders see opportunities to create jobs, support local businesses and tell authentic Appalachian stories on a national stage. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/west-virginia-film-industry-jeff-tinnell-netflix/ #3 – From WVU TODAY – Blanche Lazzell returns home One of West Virginia's most influential artists is coming home. The Art Museum of West Virginia University will host "Blanche Lazzell: Becoming an American Modernist," the museum's largest exhibition ever, after a successful national tour. Featuring the largest collection of works by the Monongalia County native and pioneering modernist, the exhibition celebrates Lazzell's lasting influence on American art and introduces her work to a new generation of visitors. Read more: https://wvutoday.wvu.edu/stories/2026/07/20/wvu-brings-pioneering-artist-blanche-lazzell-home-for-art-museum-s-largest-exhibition-on-record Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.