First Day Hike: Cacapon

The 2023 First Day Hike is honoring our friend, volunteer, and mentor at Cacapon State Park: Clark A. Dixon, Jr.  He was an inspiration to us and everyone he met.  He would encourage you to step up and embrace nature and opportunities particularly hiking. To learn more about Clark Dixon, click here.

Take your first step into the New Year with a hike at Cacapon Resort State Park.

Naturalist Valerie Chaney, Allen Miller and volunteers will be with you to embrace the new year on a brisk wintry walk, January 1, 2023. The annual hike starts at 10:00 a.m. and will meet at the nature center to organize.  There are two hikes planned and start at the same time.

The Cabin/Laurel/Central Trail sets foot with Park Naturalist, Valerie Chaney, on a 2½ mile hike to take in the mountain views and upper lake.

The Hovermale Trail hike sets foot with Potomac Valley Master Naturalist Dale Kirchner and naturalist Allen MIller for an easy to moderate 1.4 mile hike.  Participants will enjo crossing multiple streams and several Hemlock Evergreens along the trail.  

Sturdy shoes/boots are required and please dress appropriately for weather conditions; it can be bitter cold but worth the effort. Please, carry water and a snack. Plan to arrive 10 minutes prior to start time.

There is no charge to go on the hike. Attendees do not have to be overnight guests at the park. Participants receive a First Day Hike patch at completion.

lease dress appropriately for weather conditions; it can be bitter cold but worth the effort. Please, carry water and a snack. Plan to arrive 10 minutes prior to start time.

There is no charge to go on the hike. Participants receive a First Day Hike patch at completion.

Email the naturalist at valerie.l.chaney@wv.gov.

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