Saturday, June 3, is National Trails Day, and West Virginia State Parks are celebrating by offering special guided hikes on many of their trails. National Trails Day is sponsored by the American Hiking Society and is designed to encourage people to go outside, exercise and enjoy all that nature has to offer. Guided hikes at state parks will be led by park naturalists or volunteers who are knowledgeable about the areas and natural aspects of the trails.
Hikers and walkers who participate on June 3 are encouraged to keep a mileage log, available at state park offices or front desk areas. Information may be recorded and submitted by the hiker and mailed to the central state park office.
As additional incentive, participation in a National Trails Day hike counts toward completion of the 2017 Chief’s Challenge. State Parks Chief Sam England is challenging people of all ages to hike 100 miles or more on state park or forest trails during 2017. Those 100 miles should include participation in at least 17 miles of hikes, walks or strolls at a state park or forest led by a state park naturalist or activities coordinator. The Challenge is free, but online registration is required. Information is available at www.wvstateparks.com
For more details about National Trails Day events at individual state parks, check out the event calendar at www.wvstateparks.com.
Guided National Trails Day hikes on June 3 include:
- 10-mile Bluestone Turnpike Hike at Pipestem Resort State Park
- Birding around the Sun Hike at Kanawha State Forest
- Cacapon’s Inaugural 5K Trail Run-Walk at Cacapon Resort State Park
- Giant Hemlock Celebration Hike at Cathedral State Park
- Keebler’s Paws Weekend at Watters Smith State Park
- National Trails Day Hike at Watoga State Park
- Nature Walk – “All About Birds” at Blennerhassett State Park
So, lace up your hiking boots and get ready to hit the trail. Hiking at a West Virginia State Park is the best way to participate in National Trails Day.