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CategoriesLifestyle
Post By Jennifer

Honoring Memorial Day: Outdoor Activities and Remembrance in West Virginia

Memorial Day is a time to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the United States Armed Forces. As we take time to reflect on their service and dedication, we can also appreciate the freedoms we enjoy, including the opportunity to explore the beautiful outdoors. In West Virginia, there are numerous ways to combine outdoor activities with remembrance and gratitude this Memorial Day weekend.

Outdoor Activities in West Virginia

  1. Hiking and Camping: West Virginia’s state parks, such as Blackwater Falls and Coopers Rock, offer scenic hiking trails and campgrounds. As you immerse yourself in nature, take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by our fallen heroes.

  2. Fishing: Engage in peaceful reflection while fishing in West Virginia’s rivers and lakes, such as the Monongahela River or Summersville Lake. Remember the tranquility and freedom we enjoy thanks to the service of our military personnel.
  3. Whitewater Rafting: Challenge yourself on the Gauley or New Rivers, and appreciate the courage and bravery demonstrated by our service members in the face of adversity.
  4. Scenic Drives: Embark on a scenic drive along the Highland Scenic Highway or the Midland Trail. Use this time to contemplate the sacrifices made by our nation’s heroes and the beauty of the land they fought to protect.
  5. Birding: While observing the diverse birdlife in places like the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge or the New River Gorge National Park, consider the freedom and peace that our fallen service members helped preserve.

Incorporating Memorial Day Remembrance

  • Visit war memorials and veterans’ cemeteries in West Virginia, such as the West Virginia Veterans Memorial in Charleston or the Grafton National Cemetery, to pay your respects and honor the fallen.
  • Participate in local Memorial Day events and parades to show your support for veterans and their families.
  • Observe a moment of silence or prayer at 3:00 PM local time on Memorial Day, as part of the National Moment of Remembrance.
  • Donate to organizations that support veterans and their families, such as the Wounded Warrior Project or the Fisher House Foundation.

As you plan your Memorial Day weekend outdoor activities in West Virginia, remember to carry the spirit of remembrance and gratitude with you. By combining outdoor adventures with moments of reflection and appreciation, we can honor the sacrifices of our fallen heroes while enjoying the natural beauty and freedoms they helped protect.

Take time this Memorial Day to pause, remember, and express gratitude for the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Their sacrifice allows us to enjoy the liberties we hold dear, including the opportunity to explore the wild and wonderful outdoors of West Virginia.

CategoriesHiking
Post By Jennifer

The Best Hiking Trails in West Virginia to Enjoy Spring Wildflowers

As spring blooms across the Mountain State, hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers eagerly await the arrival of vibrant wildflowers. West Virginia’s diverse landscapes, from the Appalachian Mountains to the lush forests, offer a myriad of trails perfect for witnessing the colorful display of spring flora. In this post, we’ll explore some of the best hiking trails in West Virginia to enjoy spring wildflowers and provide tips on how to make the most of your outdoor adventure.

Dolly Sods Wilderness

Located in the Monongahela National Forest, Dolly Sods Wilderness is a high-altitude plateau known for its unique ecosystem and stunning wildflowers. The Bear Rocks Trail is a popular 2.4-mile loop that showcases a variety of spring blooms, including trilliums, violets, and pink lady’s slippers. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness and is considered moderate in difficulty. While hiking, keep an eye out for the rare and beautiful white monkshood, which is native to the area.

Kanawha State Forest

Just a short drive from Charleston, Kanawha State Forest is home to over 60 miles of hiking and biking trails, picnic areas and diverse wildflower, tree and bird populations.ย  The Spotted Salamander Trail is a 0.6-mile loop that meanders through a hardwood forest, featuring an array of spring wildflowers such as trilliums, violets, and wild geraniums. This easy trail is perfect for families and novice hikers. The forest also offers guided wildflower walks during the spring season, providing an excellent opportunity to learn more about the local flora.

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

The New River Gorge, America’s newest national park, boasts an abundance of spring wildflowers along its numerous hiking trails. The Long Point Trail, a 3.2-mile out-and-back hike, offers spectacular views of the New River Gorge Bridge and an opportunity to spot wildflowers like Virginia bluebells, trilliums, and wild columbine. For a more challenging hike, try the Endless Wall Trail, a 2.4-mile moderate trail that winds along the rim of the gorge, offering stunning vistas and a chance to see rare plant species.

Coopers Rock State Forest

Situated along the Cheat River Gorge, Coopers Rock State Forest is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The Raven Rock Trail, a moderate 2.6-mile out and back hike, winds through a dense forest adorned with spring beauties, trilliums, and Dutchman’s breeches. The trail culminates at an overlook offering panoramic views of the gorge [4]. The forest also features several other trails, such as the Clay Run Trail and the Roadside Trail, which provide additional opportunities for wildflower viewing.

Blackwater Falls State Park

Known for its stunning 57-foot waterfall, Blackwater Falls State Park also harbors a variety of spring wildflowers. The Lindy Point Trail, an easy 0.8-mile out-and-back hike, offers views of the Blackwater Canyon and opportunities to spot trilliums, violets, and wild geraniums along the way. The park also features longer trails, such as the Elakala Trail and the Pase Point Trail, which offer more extensive wildflower viewing opportunities.

Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge

Canaan Valley, the highest valley east of the Rocky Mountains, is a haven for spring wildflowers. The Beall Tract Trail System offers several easy to moderate hikes through wetlands and forests, showcasing blooms like marsh marigolds, trilliums, and painted trilliums. The refuge also offers guided wildflower walks and educational programs during the spring season, making it an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts and families.

Chief Logan State Park

Located in the heart of southern West Virginia, Chief Logan State Park features several hiking trails perfect for wildflower viewing. The Wilderness Trail, a moderate 3.0-mile loop, passes through a diverse forest ecosystem, offering glimpses of spring beauties, trilliums, and violets. The park also boasts a beautiful wildflower garden near the museum, which showcases native plant species and provides a more accessible option for those with limited mobility.

When hiking these trails to enjoy spring wildflowers, remember to practice Leave No Trace principles. Stay on designated trails, avoid picking or trampling the delicate blooms, and pack out any trash. By being responsible stewards of the environment, we can ensure that these natural wonders remain for future generations to enjoy.

To make the most of your spring wildflower hike, consider the following tips:

  • Plan your hike during peak bloom season, which typically occurs from late April to early May in West Virginia.
  • Bring a wildflower identification guide or download a mobile app to help you identify the various species you encounter.ย  I use the PictureThis Plant Identifier app on all my outdoor adventurers.
  • Pack essentials such as water, snacks, sunscreen, and insect repellent to ensure a comfortable and safe hiking experience.
  • Consider joining a guided wildflower walk or attending a wildflower festival to learn more about the local flora and connect with other nature enthusiasts.

West Virginia’s hiking trails come alive with vibrant colors during the spring wildflower season. From the high-altitude wilderness of Dolly Sods to the lush forests of Kanawha State Forest, there is no shortage of breathtaking trails to explore. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and embark on an adventure to witness the Mountain State’s spectacular spring wildflower display.

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