An outdoor holiday: Celebrate National Trails Day
MORGANTOWN — Lace up your hiking boots and grab a water bottle.
Saturday is National Trails Day, a celebration of nature, history and community. Whether a beginner looking for a leisurely stroll or a seasoned hiker, there are plenty of options to help make the most of this day for the outdoors.
National Trails Day, organized annually by the American Hiking Society, shines a spotlight on the thousands of miles of trails maintained by federal, state and local agencies.
According to the American Hiking Society, it's an opportunity to 'create community and connect with the people in your area who share your love of being outside.'
Day trips
History buffs will enjoy a National Trails Day hike at Tygart Lake State Park . Starting at 10 a.m. Saturday, participants will hike out to the dam while learning about the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the location's history and the mission behind the park's development.
For a bit of a longer drive, Blackwater Falls State Park is hosting a guided hike beginning at 10 a.m. Meet a park naturalist in the lodge lobby for an interpretive hike covering portions of three different trails. This family-friendly hike is less than two miles long and winds through forests of conifers and northern hardwoods, offering a glimpse at mountain holly, serviceberry, and other native plants — and possibly some wildlife.
Staying local
Closer to home, there are still plenty of ways to celebrate the day. Morgantown offers a range of accessible and scenic trails.
The Mon River Rail-Trail is a beautiful paved, multi-use pathway perfect for walking, running or biking.
Coopers Rock State Forest is just a short drive away and offers everything from a breathtaking scenic overlook to hikes and backwoods adventures.
The West Virginia Land Trust does not have anything planned this weekend, but 'If you are looking for something to do, the West Virginia Land Trust has nine nature preserves open to the public,' said Jessica Spatafore, director of marketing and communication.
Toms Run Nature Preserve in Morgantown is a WVLT property that many consider to be a beautiful local gem.
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