Gap Mills: History and Historic Buildings

Around the village of Gap Mills, the Gap Valley Historic District encompasses a group of commercial and residential buildings at the intersection of Sweet Springs Valley Road and Zenith Road. The mix of both building types makes the district understandable as an ensemble, not as a single building. On December 29, 2014, it was deemed eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places.

Historic Town Center and Bathhouses

The Sweet Springs Bathhouse in Gap Mills dates from the 1850s; its design is attributed to Henry Exall. The bathhouse faces the Sweet Springs Hotel across the lawn. Old Sweet Springs is nearby. Its bathhouse resembles a church and replaced an earlier wooden structure. The Gap Mills Bathhouse dates from the 1850s and is attributed to Henry Exall; by contrast, the bathhouse at Old Sweet Springs resembles a church and replaced an earlier wooden structure.

River History and Tours

The river landscape can be traced through three waterway names: Kitchen Creek flows into Second Creek in Gap Valley, which continues north to the Greenbrier River. For many Monroe County residents, Second Creek was also the most accessible place to obtain milling services. Its significance connects the course of the river with the history of milling services.

Gap Mills is a stop on The Springs Trail, a driving tour of historic springs. If you are planning the tour, check the latest route details before setting out, as they may be revised. Moncove Lake State Park has five hiking trails; the longest is about two miles long. These offer different types of outings: a drive to historic springs and trails for hiking.

Baked Goods with Seasonal Hours

Kitchen Creek Bakery in Gap Mills makes its own bread, pepperoni rolls, pies, cookies, and doughnuts. Its opening hours vary by season. If you are planning a visit, check the hours in advance.

Birdwatching and Activities at Moncove Lake

Moncove Lake is considered an especially good area for birdwatching; more than 160 bird species can be observed in the surrounding area. The lake’s proximity to Peter’s Mountain and a section of the Appalachians with ridges and valleys contribute to this. For nature enthusiasts, this means both opportunities to observe species and a landscape of ridges and valleys.

At Moncove Lake State Park, the 144-acre lake offers fishing for largemouth bass, sunfish, trout, catfish, walleye, and yellow perch. At Moncove Lake State Park, you can rent rowboats, kayaks, and pedal boats; life jackets are provided. Fishing and boat rentals are water-based options, while the hiking trails focus on routes on foot. Seasonal availability of boat rentals may change; check current park information before making plans.

For the broader travel overview: Monroe County.