Nature Lovers:
For those who
enjoy walking in the woods, Canaan Valley features 18 miles of marked
trails through hardwood forests, wetlands and meadows. The trails
meander around a section of the Blackwater River, a wildlife observation
area, and over 6,000 acres of wetlands. Many of the trails are linked
with marked trails in the Monogahela National Forest. There are
loop trails as short as ¾ of a mile and as long as 2 ½
miles. The resort's website claims "200 species of birds, 600
types of wildflowers, and a forest full of wildlife - including
deer willing to greet you at the entrance". I confirm the friendly
deer. The deer hung out with us last year as we relaxed outside
and are so tame you can feed them. For those interested, and depending
on schedules, we'll arrange a time to explore. We can meet at the
Nature Center on the resort property. Any kids attending might enjoy
the Center's displays depicting common wildlife of the area.
Another favorite of mine is Blackwater Falls State Park. The park
is only twelve miles from the resort and features a waterfall that
plunges five stories. The "black" water, really an amber
color, is created by the tannic acid from fallen hemlocks and red
spruce. There are two trails down to the falls; one easy and one
that will provide a nice workout on the way back up. In April of
2005, Rich and I walked the more demanding trail down to the falls.
The waterfall was magnificent. Two years later I can still picture
it. And this year I won't miss it. Other attractions in the area
are listed on the resorts website.
Dona Riczinger
COG 5977A
(Look up Dona's
email on the Rally Committee listing)
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