June 3, 2010
Take a Hike (or Bike) at West Virginia State Parks and Forests on National Trails Day June 5
Special to Huntingtonnews.net
On June 5, West Virginia State Parks and Forests welcome hikers and bikers (bicycle) in celebrating the American Hiking Society’s signature trail awareness program, National Trails Day. A number of scheduled hikes led by park and forest naturalists are planned to encourage individuals of all ages to get outside and take a hike, bike or walk a trail or trails at a nearby or favorite state park or forest.
Log cards will be available at every state park and forest on this day. A mileage log card also is available online at www.wvstateparks.com under the Hikes/Walks icon. Individuals wanting to set their own pace on a state park or state forest trail are encouraged to walk independently from an organized hike on a trail at a state park or forest.
Anyone participating in National Trails Day on a state park or forest trail and submitting a log card will receive a 2010 Trails Day patch and National Trails Day certificate from the West Virginia state parks system. Mileage will be totaled and posted to the West Virginia State Parks website.
Additional hikes and walks will be scheduled by seasonal naturalists at many of the state parks with information posted on the park’s website or by contacting the park. Fans and friends of WV State Parks on Facebook may watch for additional hike and trail information.
For more information about a scheduled hike on National Trails Day, call the specific park for details or go online, www.wvstateparks.com under Hikes & Walks or 1-800-CALL-WVA.
National Trails Day events at West Virginia State Parks, June 5, 2010, include:
10-mile Hike Planned at Holly River State Park
Contact: Biff Healy, Summer Naturalist, 304-493-6353
Hikers will meet at the trail head across from the WV Department of Highways area at Holly River State Park for a 10-mile hike beginning at 10 a.m. “We’ll be taking the Ridge Road and Wilderness Trails in a loop,” said Park Naturalist Biff Healy. Participants should wear appropriate footwear, bring water and a lunch. “In addition to a good hike, there should be good photo opportunities as well.” Healy’s hike should return prior to 4 p.m.
The Overlook Hike at Beech Fork State Park
Contact: Sarah Miloski, Summer Naturalist, 304-528-5794
Hike to the Overlook is the activity and starts at 10 a.m. to celebrate National Trails Day at Beech Fork State Park near Barboursville. Naturalist Sarah Miloski says the trail is strenuous and steep in some places but the “view is definitely worthwhile.” Hikers should meet at the Campfire Circle and be sure to bring some water and good shoes! Miloski expects this outdoor activity to take less than two hours.
10-mile Trek on the Greenbrier River Trail
Contact: Jody Spencer, Superintendent, 304-799-4087 or greenbrierrt@wvdnr.gov
Hikers will meet Saturday, June 5, at the Marlinton Depot parking lot at 10 a.m. A shuttle will drive hikers to milepost 66 and everyone will walk back to their vehicles in Marlinton. The trek will be from mp 66 back to Marlinton, mp 56. Attendees may want to pack a snack and water. There is no charge to participate. The Greenbrier River Trail is a 78-mile long rail trail operated by West Virginia State Parks. Trail uses include bicycling, backpacking, cross-country skiing and horseback riding. A packed, crusher run surface coupled with a mere one percent grade creates an ease of riding that allows cyclists, young and old, to enjoy the many breathtaking views. The trail closely follows its namesake, the Greenbrier River, for most of its length, offering trail users countless opportunities for swimming and fishing.
Hike ‘n Bike the Park at Twin Falls Resort State Park
Contact: Twin Falls Resort State Park, 304-294-4000 or email JosephSwiney@wvdnr.gov
This event is geared toward two interest groups, hikers and mountain bikers. Throughout the day a series of guided hikes and rides will be conducted. Meet at Shelter 2 at 11 am. Participants should bring a lunch and water. This event is for all ages and skill levels. Twin Falls Resort State Park is located in Wyoming County near Saulsville. The park lodge is currently under renovation and expansion to a 48-room unit. The park features an 18-hole golf course, miles of hiking and biking trails, cabins, campground, restaurant and an 18-century Pioneer Farm homestead. Visit www.twinfallsresort.com to learn more.
A Bluestone Turnpike Hike at Pipestem Resort State Park
Contact: Pipestem Resort State Park, Jim Phillips, Naturalist, 304-466-1800 x 344
A 10-miler, The Bluestone Turnpike Hike starts at Mountain Creek Lodge at Pipestem and treks to Bluestone State Park. Hikers should be at Mountain Creek Lodge by 10 a.m. to start this hike. Mountain Creek is accessible by aerial tram. The hike should conclude by 3:30 or 4 p.m. Shuttle is provided. Participants should wear sturdy shoes and pack water and lunch. In addition to being a National Trails Day event, this hike is part of the W.Va. State Park Hiking Program special hikes. “It is very helpful for folks planning to participate in this hike to call in advance so we can organize shuttle services” said Jim Phillips, park naturalist. Reservations are requested for this hike by calling 304-466-0417.
An additional hike, The Bluestone River Walk, is planned at Pipestem, also beginning at Mountain Creek Lodge at 10 a.m. This interpretive walk will be led by a National Park Ranger.
Please allow 15 minutes for the aerial tram ride to the starting location for both hikes. Cost of the tram ride is $2 and this hike will last from 1 – 1-1/2 hours. There is no fee to participate in the hikes.
Pipestem Resort is located on Rt. 20, minutes from I-77 south, between Athens and Hinton. The park is open year-round with lodges, golf courses, restaurants, gift shop, horseback riding stable, campground, fishing and game courts in addition to good hiking opportunities. A family-favorite, Pipestem’s hiking, nature center, and birding activities make this a nature lover’s playground. Online information about Pipestem amenities and activities including the outdoor amphitheater are at www.pipestemresort.com.
Hike Across West Virginia at Cacapon Resort State Park
Contact: Cacapon Resort State Park, 304-258-1022 or kellysmith@wvdnr.gov
Naturalist Kelly Smith invites you to hike across a short cross section in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle and “essentially walk across the state!” Cacapon Mountain is the highest mountain west of the three Eastern Panhandle counties. This hike will travel down the ridge of the mountain with a gradual elevation change from 2,350 feet to 1,700 feet. The final view near Prospect Rock provides a wonderful panoramic scene of three states and two rivers. The hike is fairly level hiking with a wonderful view at the end. Hikers should meet at the Cacapon Nature Center to be shuttled to the overlook to begin the 10-mile hike along the ridge of Cacapon Mountain on an old fire road. Please bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes. You may want to pack lunch/ and snacks as this hike is scheduled to depart at 9 a.m. and return by 3 p.m.
From Washington, D.C., take the Beltway to I- 270 North, Merge onto I-70 West toward Hagerstown, merge onto US - 522 South to Cacapon Resort State Park. Approximate distance: 105 miles. From Interstate 81 (Winchester, Va.) take U.S. Route 522 north 27 miles to the park. From the north on Interstate 81 (Pennsylvania) take Interstate 70 west to Hancock, Md., then U.S. Route 522 south at Hancock, towards Berkeley Springs. The park is located nine miles south from the town of Berkeley Springs. From the west on Interstate 68 to Hancock, Md., go to 522 South towards Berkeley Springs. The park is located nine miles south from the town of Berkeley Springs. The website is: www.cacaponresort.com
32nd Annual Ridge Runner Marathon
Contact: North Bend State Park, (304) 643-2931 or kathymetz@wvdnr.gov
North Bend State Park takes National Trails Day at a different speed with the 32nd Annual Ridge Runner Marathon. The 26.2 mile USATF certified marathon begins near the park's maintenance area with start time at 7 a.m. or earlier at 6 a.m. if runners require more than a four hour time. The 10-mile race, also on this date, begins at North Bend Lodge at 9 a.m. Both runs conclude at the park’s amphitheater. All information is available online at www.northbendsp.com.
The North Bend Rail Trail welcomes anyone looking for a great trail to walk or bike at your own pace and schedule on National Trails Day or any day. North Bend Rail Trail is 72 miles in length and stretches from Walker, near Happy Valley in Wood County, to Wolf Summit in Harrison County.
North Bend State Park is located in Ritchie County, between Cairo and Harrisville. The park features a lodge, cabins, campgrounds, lake, fishing, picnicking, restaurant and hiking trails. Interpretative programs are scheduled weekly and open to the public.
Easy Hike at Watoga State Park
Contact: Julie McQuade, Summer Naturalist, 304-799-4087
Naturalist Julie McQuade will be leading a hike on the Lake Trail at Watoga State Park. The hike starts at 10:00 a.m. and meets at the swimming pool parking lots. "It's an easy mile and a half walk and we'll be looking for plants and critters along the trail," said McQuade. Participants should allow about two hours for this activity. Details can be found online at www.watoga.com.
About National Trails Day
A long-standing celebration of America's magnificent trail system and its countless supporters and volunteers, National Trails Day (NTD) is celebrated in all 50 states and Puerto Rico with an open invitation to all Americans to get outside and connect with local hiking clubs, outdoor retailers, local parks and recreation departments or federal land managing agencies to experience everything the great outdoors has to offer.
Since 1993, National Trails Day has inspired thousands of people to enjoy trails on the same day nationwide, taking part in hikes, bike and horse rides, trail maintenance, paddle trips and other activities. Event hosts include local hiking clubs, federal agencies, municipal parks, retailers, land trusts and many other businesses and organizations. For more information about National Trails Day, visit www.AmericanHiking.org.
Founded in 1976, American Hiking Society is the only national, recreation-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and protecting America’s hiking trails, their surrounding natural areas and the hiking experience. To learn more about American Hiking Society and its mission and programs, visit www.AmericanHiking.org or call (800) 972-8608.
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Take a Hike (or Bike) at West Virginia State Parks and Forests on National Trails Day June 5
Special to Huntingtonnews.net
On June 5, West Virginia State Parks and Forests welcome hikers and bikers (bicycle) in celebrating the American Hiking Society’s signature trail awareness program, National Trails Day. A number of scheduled hikes led by park and forest naturalists are planned to encourage individuals of all ages to get outside and take a hike, bike or walk a trail or trails at a nearby or favorite state park or forest.
Log cards will be available at every state park and forest on this day. A mileage log card also is available online at www.wvstateparks.com under the Hikes/Walks icon. Individuals wanting to set their own pace on a state park or state forest trail are encouraged to walk independently from an organized hike on a trail at a state park or forest.
Anyone participating in National Trails Day on a state park or forest trail and submitting a log card will receive a 2010 Trails Day patch and National Trails Day certificate from the West Virginia state parks system. Mileage will be totaled and posted to the West Virginia State Parks website.
Additional hikes and walks will be scheduled by seasonal naturalists at many of the state parks with information posted on the park’s website or by contacting the park. Fans and friends of WV State Parks on Facebook may watch for additional hike and trail information.
For more information about a scheduled hike on National Trails Day, call the specific park for details or go online, www.wvstateparks.com under Hikes & Walks or 1-800-CALL-WVA.
National Trails Day events at West Virginia State Parks, June 5, 2010, include:
10-mile Hike Planned at Holly River State Park
Contact: Biff Healy, Summer Naturalist, 304-493-6353
Hikers will meet at the trail head across from the WV Department of Highways area at Holly River State Park for a 10-mile hike beginning at 10 a.m. “We’ll be taking the Ridge Road and Wilderness Trails in a loop,” said Park Naturalist Biff Healy. Participants should wear appropriate footwear, bring water and a lunch. “In addition to a good hike, there should be good photo opportunities as well.” Healy’s hike should return prior to 4 p.m.
The Overlook Hike at Beech Fork State Park
Contact: Sarah Miloski, Summer Naturalist, 304-528-5794
Hike to the Overlook is the activity and starts at 10 a.m. to celebrate National Trails Day at Beech Fork State Park near Barboursville. Naturalist Sarah Miloski says the trail is strenuous and steep in some places but the “view is definitely worthwhile.” Hikers should meet at the Campfire Circle and be sure to bring some water and good shoes! Miloski expects this outdoor activity to take less than two hours.
10-mile Trek on the Greenbrier River Trail
Contact: Jody Spencer, Superintendent, 304-799-4087 or greenbrierrt@wvdnr.gov
Hikers will meet Saturday, June 5, at the Marlinton Depot parking lot at 10 a.m. A shuttle will drive hikers to milepost 66 and everyone will walk back to their vehicles in Marlinton. The trek will be from mp 66 back to Marlinton, mp 56. Attendees may want to pack a snack and water. There is no charge to participate. The Greenbrier River Trail is a 78-mile long rail trail operated by West Virginia State Parks. Trail uses include bicycling, backpacking, cross-country skiing and horseback riding. A packed, crusher run surface coupled with a mere one percent grade creates an ease of riding that allows cyclists, young and old, to enjoy the many breathtaking views. The trail closely follows its namesake, the Greenbrier River, for most of its length, offering trail users countless opportunities for swimming and fishing.
Hike ‘n Bike the Park at Twin Falls Resort State Park
Contact: Twin Falls Resort State Park, 304-294-4000 or email JosephSwiney@wvdnr.gov
This event is geared toward two interest groups, hikers and mountain bikers. Throughout the day a series of guided hikes and rides will be conducted. Meet at Shelter 2 at 11 am. Participants should bring a lunch and water. This event is for all ages and skill levels. Twin Falls Resort State Park is located in Wyoming County near Saulsville. The park lodge is currently under renovation and expansion to a 48-room unit. The park features an 18-hole golf course, miles of hiking and biking trails, cabins, campground, restaurant and an 18-century Pioneer Farm homestead. Visit www.twinfallsresort.com to learn more.
A Bluestone Turnpike Hike at Pipestem Resort State Park
Contact: Pipestem Resort State Park, Jim Phillips, Naturalist, 304-466-1800 x 344
A 10-miler, The Bluestone Turnpike Hike starts at Mountain Creek Lodge at Pipestem and treks to Bluestone State Park. Hikers should be at Mountain Creek Lodge by 10 a.m. to start this hike. Mountain Creek is accessible by aerial tram. The hike should conclude by 3:30 or 4 p.m. Shuttle is provided. Participants should wear sturdy shoes and pack water and lunch. In addition to being a National Trails Day event, this hike is part of the W.Va. State Park Hiking Program special hikes. “It is very helpful for folks planning to participate in this hike to call in advance so we can organize shuttle services” said Jim Phillips, park naturalist. Reservations are requested for this hike by calling 304-466-0417.
An additional hike, The Bluestone River Walk, is planned at Pipestem, also beginning at Mountain Creek Lodge at 10 a.m. This interpretive walk will be led by a National Park Ranger.
Please allow 15 minutes for the aerial tram ride to the starting location for both hikes. Cost of the tram ride is $2 and this hike will last from 1 – 1-1/2 hours. There is no fee to participate in the hikes.
Pipestem Resort is located on Rt. 20, minutes from I-77 south, between Athens and Hinton. The park is open year-round with lodges, golf courses, restaurants, gift shop, horseback riding stable, campground, fishing and game courts in addition to good hiking opportunities. A family-favorite, Pipestem’s hiking, nature center, and birding activities make this a nature lover’s playground. Online information about Pipestem amenities and activities including the outdoor amphitheater are at www.pipestemresort.com.
Hike Across West Virginia at Cacapon Resort State Park
Contact: Cacapon Resort State Park, 304-258-1022 or kellysmith@wvdnr.gov
Naturalist Kelly Smith invites you to hike across a short cross section in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle and “essentially walk across the state!” Cacapon Mountain is the highest mountain west of the three Eastern Panhandle counties. This hike will travel down the ridge of the mountain with a gradual elevation change from 2,350 feet to 1,700 feet. The final view near Prospect Rock provides a wonderful panoramic scene of three states and two rivers. The hike is fairly level hiking with a wonderful view at the end. Hikers should meet at the Cacapon Nature Center to be shuttled to the overlook to begin the 10-mile hike along the ridge of Cacapon Mountain on an old fire road. Please bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes. You may want to pack lunch/ and snacks as this hike is scheduled to depart at 9 a.m. and return by 3 p.m.
From Washington, D.C., take the Beltway to I- 270 North, Merge onto I-70 West toward Hagerstown, merge onto US - 522 South to Cacapon Resort State Park. Approximate distance: 105 miles. From Interstate 81 (Winchester, Va.) take U.S. Route 522 north 27 miles to the park. From the north on Interstate 81 (Pennsylvania) take Interstate 70 west to Hancock, Md., then U.S. Route 522 south at Hancock, towards Berkeley Springs. The park is located nine miles south from the town of Berkeley Springs. From the west on Interstate 68 to Hancock, Md., go to 522 South towards Berkeley Springs. The park is located nine miles south from the town of Berkeley Springs. The website is: www.cacaponresort.com
32nd Annual Ridge Runner Marathon
Contact: North Bend State Park, (304) 643-2931 or kathymetz@wvdnr.gov
North Bend State Park takes National Trails Day at a different speed with the 32nd Annual Ridge Runner Marathon. The 26.2 mile USATF certified marathon begins near the park's maintenance area with start time at 7 a.m. or earlier at 6 a.m. if runners require more than a four hour time. The 10-mile race, also on this date, begins at North Bend Lodge at 9 a.m. Both runs conclude at the park’s amphitheater. All information is available online at www.northbendsp.com.
The North Bend Rail Trail welcomes anyone looking for a great trail to walk or bike at your own pace and schedule on National Trails Day or any day. North Bend Rail Trail is 72 miles in length and stretches from Walker, near Happy Valley in Wood County, to Wolf Summit in Harrison County.
North Bend State Park is located in Ritchie County, between Cairo and Harrisville. The park features a lodge, cabins, campgrounds, lake, fishing, picnicking, restaurant and hiking trails. Interpretative programs are scheduled weekly and open to the public.
Easy Hike at Watoga State Park
Contact: Julie McQuade, Summer Naturalist, 304-799-4087
Naturalist Julie McQuade will be leading a hike on the Lake Trail at Watoga State Park. The hike starts at 10:00 a.m. and meets at the swimming pool parking lots. "It's an easy mile and a half walk and we'll be looking for plants and critters along the trail," said McQuade. Participants should allow about two hours for this activity. Details can be found online at www.watoga.com.
About National Trails Day
A long-standing celebration of America's magnificent trail system and its countless supporters and volunteers, National Trails Day (NTD) is celebrated in all 50 states and Puerto Rico with an open invitation to all Americans to get outside and connect with local hiking clubs, outdoor retailers, local parks and recreation departments or federal land managing agencies to experience everything the great outdoors has to offer.
Since 1993, National Trails Day has inspired thousands of people to enjoy trails on the same day nationwide, taking part in hikes, bike and horse rides, trail maintenance, paddle trips and other activities. Event hosts include local hiking clubs, federal agencies, municipal parks, retailers, land trusts and many other businesses and organizations. For more information about National Trails Day, visit www.AmericanHiking.org.
Founded in 1976, American Hiking Society is the only national, recreation-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and protecting America’s hiking trails, their surrounding natural areas and the hiking experience. To learn more about American Hiking Society and its mission and programs, visit www.AmericanHiking.org or call (800) 972-8608.
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