About Us
Our Story
Welcome to The Thrifty Mountaineer!
If you've made it this far, welcome—we're glad you found us.
The Thrifty Mountaineer started with a simple idea:
Shopping should be fun.
Somewhere along the way, too many stores became predictable. Every aisle looked the same, every website felt identical, and every shopping trip became a checklist instead of an adventure. We wanted to build something different.
Today, The Thrifty Mountaineer is part Appalachian gift shop, part curiosity shop, and part road trip destination. Whether you're visiting us in Morgantown, West Virginia, discovering us at a festival somewhere across Appalachia, or shopping from home, we want every visit to feel like you've stumbled upon something unexpected.
After all...
We're the Funnest Store on the Internet.
– Bigfoot (probably).
More Than Just a Gift Shop
You'll certainly find plenty of unique gifts, but that's only part of the story.
We proudly carry books from Appalachian authors, locally inspired foods and snacks, cryptid collectibles, plush toys, games, home décor, and products from talented independent creators we admire.
Over the years, we've also become passionate about creating our own exclusive products. From our Adventure Series and Appalachian Wasteland Collection to the Collegiate Series, West Virginia Collection, and dozens of original designs, we're building products that celebrate the weird, wild, and wonderful side of Appalachia.
Many of the items you'll find here are available only from The Thrifty Mountaineer.
Celebrating Appalachia
We believe Appalachia is one of the most fascinating places in America.
It's a region filled with legendary creatures, breathtaking scenery, quirky roadside attractions, unforgettable history, and communities with stories worth telling.
Whether you're searching for Bigfoot, chasing Mothman, exploring the mountains, discovering a new hiking trail, or simply looking for the perfect West Virginia souvenir, we hope our products help you bring a little piece of Appalachia home.
Supporting Independent Creators
One of our favorite parts of the business is working with independent artists, writers, and small businesses.
We're proud to feature the work of creators like David Hardie, Lyle Blackburn, Dave Spinks, Loving WV, Northwoods Bricks, and many others who share our love of Appalachia, folklore, and the unusual.
When you shop with us, you're not only supporting a small business—you’re helping support a growing community of independent creators.
Come Explore With Us
Whether you're visiting our store in Morgantown, finding us at one of the many festivals we attend throughout the year, or discovering us online for the very first time, we're grateful you're here.
Take your time.
Explore.
You never know what you'll discover.
And if you happen to spot Bigfoot while you're browsing...
Tell him we said hello.
Thank you for supporting The Thrifty Mountaineer.
We look forward to sharing the next adventure with you.