At the heart of one of the most-photographed scenic regions in West Virginia, Canaan Valley Resort this week has unveiled a new program of 13 guided hikes that wander some of the park's most beautiful landscapes.
Some hikes may include lunch, and all are assured to reach fabulous photographic locales sure to light-up your social media, according to park officials.
“We have developed this hiking series for a wonderful way to see and experience the many wonders of our region's forests,” said Steve Drumheller, the resort's general manager.
“Canaan Valley hiking trails are located in some of the most-photographed areas of West Virginia, and it’s a great way to create new bonds and make memories with family and friends.”
May 4 – The series starts with the Family Trail Days, featuring an eight-mile walk between Canaan Valley and Blackwater Falls state parks.
May 25 – The Bald Knob Hike with Scenic Chairlift is a moderately strenuous hike that begins at the resort's ski shop at 9 a.m. Hikers then ride to the top of the mountain to embark upon a view-filled day of walking.
June 8, Aug. 10 – The acclaimed Blackbird Knob hike is a challenging trail that rewards hikers with high mountain meadows and spectacular views. The hike includes rough terrain and water crossings, and it is not recommended for young children.
July 6, July 13, Aug. 24, Aug. 31 – Two-hour Edible Plants Hikes through trails, fields and forests of Canaan Valley State Park will introduce participants to techniques for finding wild plants that are safe to eat. Hikers will also learn how to use trees and plants to build fires, create shelter and for other survival purposes.
July 13, Aug. 3 – The Mid-Summer Walk Between Parks is an eight-mile, moderately strenuous hike between Canaan Valley Resort and Blackwater Falls State Parks.
July 26 – Presented by the West Virginia Geological Survey, the Geology Rocks Part 2 hike explores geology, topography and more with a hike along Blackwater River Trails. There is also an evening program in the lodge on July 25 that explores the mysteries of rock and its uses throughout history.
Sept. 7 – The 10-mile Douglas Falls/Blackwater Canyon Hike is an easy hike that passes a variety of interesting, rural sites including abandoned coke ovens reflecting the region’s coal mining heritage as well as canyons, a lush hardwood forest and the North Fork Blackwater River.
Oct. 5 – The guided hike series concludes with the Wild Walks Weekend, a fall favorite featuring an eight-mile walk between Canaan Valley and Blackwater Falls State Parks.
Canaan Valley offers guests a wide range of accommodations, including lodge rooms with private balconies and cabins and cottages for larger family groups.
Canaan Valley Resort is approximately three hours from Pittsburgh, 2.5 hours from Washington, D.C., and just more than 2.5 hours from Charleston, W. Va.
To reserve accommodations, visit the website or call 1-800-622-4121. For more information about guided hikes, call 1-304-866-2215.
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