Welcome to `trail heaven`

Retirement Times
www.retirewv.net • 1-877-987-3847
What’s Inside
Page 2: Letter from Governor
Page 3: Three Rivers
Pages 4-5: Mountain Roads
Page 6: Four Season
Page 7: Mountain Lakes
Pages 8 & 9: Nicholas Co. Alive!
Pages 10 & 11: Morgantown
retire
retirewv.org
For Advertising Information Call:
1-877-987-3847
“Take me home, country roads.”
Fall & Winter 2013
Welcome to ‘trail heaven’
Hatfields. McCoys. For most people,
the words conjure up images of family
feuds, Appalachia, even television
programs. But for ATV, UTV, and dirt
bike trail riders, it means the sharp
curves, rugged terrain and amazing
views of the Hatfield-McCoy Trail
System in southern West Virginia.
The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System
hasn’t been nicknamed “trail heaven’ for
nothing! For trail enthusiasts, it’s worth
the trip from wherever you are in the
eastern United States. The Trail System
is made up of over 600 miles of trails
and is one of the largest off-highway
vehicle trail systems in the world.
With eight different trails to pick from,
the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System is a
vacation in the making for those who
enjoy being off-road and outdoors. The
trails offer something for everyone from
novice to experienced rider, from nature
lover to history buff, from little kids to
kids of all ages.
All riders must purchase a user permit
that allows them unlimited time on any
of the trails; the permit can be purchased
at a variety of locations along each trail
or online. And if you didn’t bring your
bike or vehicle with you, you can rent
one and enjoy some time in the
mountains on your visit to West Virginia.
Photos courtesy of Hatfield-McCoy Trail System
We advise you to take a morning
ride, stop in one of the friendly
communities along the way for lunch,
get back in the woods for the
afternoon, and then stay the night at a
local accommodation before starting
all over the next morning. In fact,
some of the trails are located near
locations for whitewater rafting and
snow skiing so you can really make the
most of your trip.
You might also consider planning your
trip around the Hatfield-McCoy National
TrailFest. The event is one of the
premier ATV, UTV and dirt bike riding
events in the country. It offers daily and
nightly entertainment such as a poker run
and dice run (yes, motorcycles are
welcome on some of the trails), a
costume parade, dirt bike stunt shows, a
5K Muddy Trail Run, a kids mini
motocross track, and factory demo rides
of upcoming product releases.
And you don’t have to ride a motorized
vehicle to enjoy the area. There are
many trails for those who prefer being on
foot, bike, or horseback. Information on
any of these activities can be found by
contacting one of the many Convention
& Visitors Bureaus in the area. Visit the
WV Division of Tourism website at
www.wvtourism.com or call 1-800CALL-WVA
The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System
really is one of West Virginia’s newest
and greatest treasures. For more
information on including it in your West
Virginia vacation, contact the HatfieldMcCoy offices at 1-800-592-2217 or
visit them online at
www.trailheaven.com
West Virginia Retirement Times
2
Fall & Winter 2013
“Whether you are
looking for
excellent retiree
services, safe
communities,
exceptional
healthcare facilities
or a low cost of
living, our state
offers this and so
much more.”
- Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin
Recommended
Growing
Safe
Top 10
Inc., Forbes, Kiplinger’s Personal Finance
and Where to Retire list West Virginia cities
among the country’s best places for business
and living.
The state has attracted $6.6 billion in new
investment and almost 23,000 new jobs since
2005.
The state has one of the lowest crime rates in
the country.
Reasons
to Come
Home!
Central
Global
Low property taxes help West Virginia lead the
nation in home ownership.
We’re within overnight trucking distance of
more than half of the U.S. population - and a
third of the Canadian population.
Profitable
Business costs are 13 percent below the U.S.
average.
Home
Investments from 23 countries employ 22,000
West Virginians. Meanwhile, we exported $3.97
billion in 2007.
Eleven million overnight leisure travelers visited
the mountain state last year.
Popular
Affordable
Living costs are 4.5 percent below the U.S.
average.
Natural
West Virginia’s 50 state parks and forests offer
more than 800 miles of hiking trails and 5,000
acres of fishing waters..
West Virginia Retirement Times
3
Fall & Winter 2013
Three Rivers Retirement Community
Trails in Summers County
Calendar of Events
October
19-20 and 26-27 Railroad
Days (Hinton)
December
Hinton Christmas Parade
(Hinton)
Some people walk a trail to get away from the every day hustle and
bustle of life; others take a trail for the challenges that nature
provides, or simply to reconnect with the beauty of nature. Whatever
your reason for walking a trail, Summers County has that trail for
you.
Situated in a rural scene, Summers County is less than 100 miles
from many metropolitan areas and minutes from two major interstate
systems. But do not be mistaken; there are more miles of trails in
Summers County than miles of four lanes.
Summers County sets in a unique area of the State and offers two
state parks (Pipestem State Park http://www.pipestemresort.com, and
Bluestone State Park http://www.bluestonesp.com) with ample trails
as well as access to the New River Gorge National River and
Sandstone Falls, the later of which has a boardwalk and Island trail
minutes from the county seat of Hinton.
On the trails of Summers County, you will find plenty of wildlife
such as unique birds, deer, squirrels, woodchucks, and the occasional
ground hog, beaver, opossum, and raccoon. Yes, there are black bears
in Summers County but they tend to stay out of plain sight.
To walk a trail at either of our State Parks (Pipestem Resort State
Park or Bluestone State Park) is an opportunity to think, hold hands
with a loved one, remember times gone by, or create a new adventure
all while being safely guided by markers along the trail. In West
Virginia we are Wild and Wonderful, but want you to get home safely
so you can return.
Our Summers County trails offer you variety in difficulty, from an
easy stroll to a challenging climb, to sights rarely seen. Finding a trail
in Summers County gives the opportunity to not only find new
challenges to overcome but also an
opportunity to reflect and perhaps
amaze you. So finding a trail is a
way of finding yourself all over
again.
Contact the New River Gateway
Convention and Visitors Bureau
for more information on finding
your trail at 304-466-5420 or
online at http://
www.newrivergatewaywv.com
4
West Virginia Retirement Times
Fall & Winter 2013
Mountain Roads
TAKE ME HOME...
Country Trails!
Calendar of Events
Follow RetireWV on Facebook
October 4-6 - October Sky Rocket Boys Festival
304-256-1776 / 304-253-2111
October 5 – 16th Annual Beckley Half Marathon,
5K Run & 5K Walk 877-987-3847
October 5 – Beckley’s 23rd Annual Chili Night
304-256-1776
October 26 – Tailgate Halloween by Youth
Museum of Southern WV 304-252-3730
October 26 - YMCA Southern WV Spooktacular
Family Fun Fest 304-252-0175
November 4-22 - Wonderland of Trees by United
Way Southern WV 304-253-2111
November 11 – Beckley Veteran’s Day Parade
304-256-1776
November 28 – 37th Annual YMCA Thanksgiving
Day Run & Walk 304-252-0715
November 29-30 - Appalachian Coal Town
Christmas Celebration 304-256-1747
December 6-7 - Appalachian Coal Town
Christmas Celebration 304-256-1747
December 7 - Beckley’s Christmas Parade
304-256-1776
December 7-8 – Appalachian Bible College
Christmas Concert 304-877–6428
December 13-14 - “A Christmas Carol” at
Tamarack 304-256-6843
December 15 - Old Fashioned Christmas Open
House Wildwood House Museum 304-256-1747
December – Winterplace Ski Resort Opens
800-607-7669
Area Online Event Sources
www.brccc.com Beckley Raleigh County Chamber
of Commerce
www.visitwv.com Visit Southern West Virginia
www.beckley.org City of Beckley
www.raleighcountyevents.com Raleigh County
Convention & Visitors Bureau
www.beckleyevents.com Community Events
Calendar
www.tamarackwv.com Tamarack ‘The Best of WV”
www.nps.gov/neri/index.htm New River Gorge
National River
www.wvstateparks.com WV State Parks
www.ymcaswv.com YMCA of Southern WV
www.raleighseniors.org Commission on Aging
Raleigh County
www.beckleyartgallery.com Beckley Art Group
Gallery
http://rcpl.lib.wv.us/ Raleigh County Library
www.beckleyconventioncenter.com Beckley
Convention Center
www.winterplace.com Winterplace Ski Resort
www.danielvineyards.com Daniel Vineyards
www.theatrewestvirginia.com Theatre WV
Outdoor Dramas
www.shopcrossroads.com Crossroads Mall
No matter whether you’re walking, biking,
or off-roading, southern West Virginia’s vast
outdoor offerings has something for
everyone. There’s much to do and much fun
to be had. Visitors can choose from any
number of the activities highlighted below!
Vroom, vroom
Southern West Virginia is home to two
major ATV trail systems. Spanning nearly
8,000 acres of lush southern West Virginia
forest, Burning Rock Outdoor Adventure
Park offers 100 miles of total trails with each
trail offering something for every skill
level—in a
“muddy-andproud-of-it” way.
The park truly
has a variety of
terrain for your
riding pleasure,
and if a zipline is
more your speed,
there’s an extra
fast one here.
Dirt bikes,
Grand Opening Day at Burning
Rock Outdoor Adventure Park.
Governor Earl Ray Tomblin is
second ATV rider from left.
Photos courtesy of The Register-Herald
ATVs, and UTVs are welcome at Burning Rock.
The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System covers nine
southern West Virginia counties and includes
more than 600 miles of off-road trails. Each of the
six trail systems is open 365 days a year to ATVs,
dirt bikes, and UTVs. Many of the trail systems
Photos courtesy of
also offer community connecting trails that allow
The Register-Herald
visitors to access “ATV-friendly towns” and
experience the charm of southern West Virginia. No matter
which trail system you choose, Hatfield-McCoy Trail visitors
can expect to find a variety of trails ranging from easiest to
most difficult.
Take a walk in a park (or two!)
If you’re interested in exploring trails in a more leisurely
way, you can explore Grandview, part of the New River Gorge
National River. With spectacular views of the New River and
beautiful rhododendron, the park features scenic overlooks of
the New River, a visitor center (open seasonally), five hiking
trails, ranger-led walks and talks, and picnic areas with
Photos courtesy of Burning Rock.
Kevin Lucky,
D.D.S.
110 Johnstown Road
Beckley, WV 25801
Jan Care
Ambulance
Service Inc.
“The Only
One To Call”
www.Jancare.com
304-255-0717
Toll Free 1-800-446-6161
5
West Virginia Retirement Times
Fall & Winter 2013
bikers should use caution while riding in high-use areas.
The scenery ranges from deep woods to open meadows with wildflowers. In the
fall, experience the Haunted Trail, a hair-raising walk down a dark park trail.
In the heart of the city
The City of Beckley features The Lewis McManus Memorial Honor Trail, or
“Rails to Trails,” is a 3.6 mile trail from Mabscott to Cranberry Creek Crossing
with a spur to New River Park.
This urban trail features a 12-foot wide paved surface with lights, benches, and
shelters. Residents and visitors use the trail for walking, hiking, biking and skating. The trail offers a mix of
busy urban areas and quiet
neighborhoods and is used
for several community
events, including an annual
5k run/walk event.
The YMCA Paul Cline
Memorial Youth Sports
Complex also features a
one-and-a-half mile walking
trail that is friendly for kids
and strollers and hosts several community events each
year.
A 2.3 mile singletrack biking trail that surrounds the
Sports Complex is great for
beginning to medium-ability
riders who want a real feeling of being out in the
woods.
Our outdoor trails, paths,
and country roads are waiting to welcome you to
southern West Virginia?
Where will you go first?
playgrounds.
At Grandview’s Main Overlook, 1400 feet
above the river, visitors can see an active railway and the town of Quinnimont, where the
first coal was shipped out of the gorge in 1873.
There are miles of woodland trails in the park,
and another great view from Turkey Spur
Overlook.
Little Beaver State Park is a 562-acre day-use
park to the local population of the southern
region of West Virginia and for guests lodging
at nearby WV State Parks and Resorts. The
park features an 18-acre lake, fishing, swimming, boat rentals, ten hiking trails, 60 picnic
areas, and an enclosed playground.
Little Beaver provides 10 trails for hiking,
ranging from easy strolls to more challenging
trails with inclines and changing terrain. All
trails are open for both hiking and biking, but
(304) 252-9400
Inn
252-5452
Kevin Bailey,
D.D.S.
411 Carriage Drive
Beckley, WV 25801
304-252-4897
256-1650
Beckley ARH Hospital
Appalachian Regional Healthcare
The Medical Centers of the Mountains
255-3000
Jack Tanner, Executive
Director
Raleigh County
Beckley, WV 25801
304-255-1397
www.raleighseniors.org
West Virginia Retirement Times
6
Fall & Winter 2013
Four Seasons
History and Heritage
Among some of
the most rugged
mountainous terrain in all of central Appalachia,
the region surrounding the
Bluefields has a
fascinating and
highly significant
history, dating to
numerous Native
American villages along the
rivers which
course through
the beautiful if
foreboding landscape. Pinnacle Rock State Park’s pillar of
granite demonstrates the forces of nature
which created the limestone valleys and
bluestone granite deposits which mark the
region of the Two Virginias.
The first Europeans entered the
remote valleys in the years after the
American Revolution, fiercely fighting
the original inhabitants for possession of
the rich farmlands of Mercer and Tazewell
counties. These settlers carved out a hardy
existence, farming, hunting, and assisting
western settlers along the Trail of the
Lonesome Pine. Largely southern in sympathy during the
Civil War, the
settlers found
themselves split
along state lines
after the birth of
West Virginia in
1863.
However, soon
after the creation
of the Mountain
State out of the
Old Dominion,
large deposits of bituminous coal began to attract massive industrial investment into the often impenetrable mountains. Soon,
the Norfolk & Western and later the Virginian railroads chose
the Bluefields for their regional headquarters. Hundreds of coal mines opened up in
southern West Virginia and southwestern
Virginia, bringing thousands of European
immigrants and African American coal miners to swell the region’s population.
Large cities such as Bluefield and
Princeton sprang up to serve the growing
population of miners and their families who
mined the coal which transformed America
from a rural to an urban nation. The abundant and plentiful energy enabled the United
States to become a world power, defending
democracy in World War I and II. The
region’s national significance was demonstrated by the exclusive reliance of the
United States Navy upon
“smokeless” coal from the
region.
With a rich past
which tells the story of opportunity and development, the
Bluefields await a new chapter
in their rich and fascinating
history. Notable attractions in
the area include the Eastern
Regional Coal Archives,
Mercer County War Museum,
Historic Crab Orchard
Museum, Princeton Railroad
Museum and several others.
7
West Virginia Retirement Times
Fall & Winter 2013
Mountain Lakes Designated Retirement Community
Experience Lewis County!
Calendar of Events
September - Live Music every Friday & Saturday night at 7:00 – Pink
Moon Coffeehouse
September - Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, and Sat. WV Museum of American
Glass
September - Farmstead Wednesday-Sunday 10:00-5:00-WVU Jackson’s
Mill
September - Friday Night Buffet every Friday 5:00-8:00-Deerfield
Country Club
September 1- Fireworks Display – Stonewall Resort
September 1 - Summer Concert Series – Stonewall Resort
September 6 & 7 - American Mid-Century Modern Glass Sypossium - WV
Museum of American Glass
September 12, 13, 19 & 20 - Rocky Horror Show Live – TALA
September 14 - Pet Show – 10:00-Robin’s Nest Travel Center
September 22 - 9th Annual Back to the Fifties Car Show-Lewis County
Senior Center
September 26 - Lewis County High School Homecoming Parade
September 27 - Flashlight Tours & Haunted House Opens –TALA
September 28 & 29 - National Hunting and Fishing Days – Stonewall
Resort
October - Live Music every Friday & Saturday night at 7:00 Pink Moon
Coffeehouse
October - Friday Night Buffet every Friday 5:00-8:00-Deerfield Country
Club
October - Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri and Sat. – Museum of American Glass
October - Farmstead Wednesday-Sunday 10:00-5:00-WVU Jackson’s Mill
October - Haunted and Historical Tours – TALA
October 1 - Christmas Shoppe Opens – Stonewall Resort
October 11, 12, 13 - TALA Fall Festival – Car Show, Lowes Builder
Workshop, helicopter rides, live entertainment, contests and games for
children, vendors and food
October 18 &19 - Glass Gathering – WV Museum of American Glass
October 18, 19 & 20 - The Art of Hallows Eve (formerly known as
Halloweeze-WVU Jackson’s Mill
October 22 - Lewis County Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner at WVU
Jackson’s Mill
October 24 - Fright Night Children’s Costume Contest-Shop N Save
Express
October 26 - The Asylum Ball – TALA 6:00pm to 12:00pm
October 27 - Spooktacular Costume Contest and Carnival 2:00-Robin’s
Nest Travel Center
November - Live Music every Friday & Saturday at 7:00pm Pink Moon
Coffeehouse
November - Mon, Tues. Thurs, Fri, and Sat-WV Museum of American
Glass
November - Haunted and Historical Tours – TALA
November - Farmstead Wednesday-Sunday 10:00-5:00-WVU Jackson’s
Mill
November 3 - Irish Road Bowling-Stonewall Resort
November 16 - Bizarre Bizarre – Pink Moon Coffeehouse
November 28 - Thanksgiving Dinner-Stonewall Resort
November - Thanksgiving Dinner-Thyme Bistro
November 28 - Thanksgiving Dinner-Robin’s Nest Travel Center
November 29 - Holiday Open House-Candle Creations
November 29 & 30 - Polar Express Overnight Package-Stonewall Resort
November 29 & 30 - Train Show – Stonewall Resort
November 30 - Weston Christmas Parade & Lighting of Dancing
Snowflakes
December - Live Music every Friday and Saturday night 7:00-The Pink
Moon Coffeehouse
December - Farmstead Wednesday-Sunday 10:00-5:00-WVU Jackson’s
Mill
December - Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, and Sat-WV Museum of American
Glass
December 1 - Jane Lew Christmas Parade
December 7 & 14 - Polar Express Overnight Package-Stonewall Resort
December 1,8,15,22 - Brunch with Santa-Stonewall Resort
December 6 &7 - Winter Lights Celebration – WVU Jackson’s Mill
December 14 - Breakfast with Santa – WVU Jackson’s Mill
December 14 - Lewis County Christmas Tour of Homes-The Pink Moon
Coffeehouse
December 20 & 21 - Wild World of Animals-Stonewall Resort
December 25 - Christmas Day Brunch – Stonewall Resort
December 25 - Christmas Dinner at Robin’s Nest Travel Center
December 31 - New Years Eve Celebration – Stonewall Resort
January - Live Music every Friday and Saturday night 7:00 Pink Moon
Coffeehouse
January - Mon. Tues. Thurs. Fri. and Sat. – WV Museum of American
Glass
January 22-24 - Ballroom Dancing Weekend - Stonewall Resort
January 25 - Ballroom Dancing Weekend - Stonewall Resort
February - Live Music every Friday and Saturday night 7:00-Pink Moon
Coffeehouse
February - Mon. Tues. Thurs. Fri. and Sat. – WV Museum of American
Glass
February 14 - Valentines Day Dinner – Robin’s Nest Travel Center
February 14 - Valentines Day Dinner– Stonewall Resort
February 14 - Valentines Day Dinner – Thyme Bistro
March - Farmstead Wednesday-Sunday 10:00-5:00-WVU Jackson’80ôs
Mill
March - Live Music every Friday and Saturday night 7:00-Pink Moon
Coffeehouse
March - Mon. Tues. Thurs. Fri. and Sat.-WV Museum of American Glass
March - Friday Night Buffett every Friday 5:00-8:00-Deerfield Country
Club
March 7-9 - 11th Annual Culinary Classic - Stonewall Resort
March 15 - Golf Course Opening Day-Deerfield Country Club
March 29 - Arnold Palmer Golf Course Opening Day-Stonewall Resort
For more information about events contact Mountain
Lakes CVB, 888-238-8881 or visit
www.mountainlakescvbwv.com or contact Lewis County
Chamber of Commerce, 304-269-2608 or visit
www.lcchamber.org.
As the summer season dwindles and the days become shorter
some individuals will turn to indoor activities as a form of
exercise. However, the fall of the year is the perfect time to get
outdoors and experience nature dressed in its finest attire. Hiking
is quickly becoming one of America’s most popular forms of
exercise and Lewis County offers a variety of trails designed for
the novice to the experienced hiker or biking enthusiast.
WVU Jackson’s Mill provides beginner trails with plenty of
places to stop and enjoy a picnic under the canopy of fall colors.
After a hike, visitors may rest from the comfort of the deck of
the General Store where a picturesque setting includes the quiet
peaceful view of the Farmstead.
Stonewall Resort is located within the 1,900 acre Stonewall
Jackson State Park which offers more than 16 miles of hiking
and biking trails of extraordinary color during the fall season
some of which are mirrored by Stonewall Jackson Lake. These
trails are suitable for any skill level from the beginner to more
challenging routes of a rougher terrain. Among these trails
includes the Cairns Trail featuring a 150 foot section of a hand
built stone wall dating to pre Civil War times.
The Staunton Parkersburg Turnpike provides a scenic
experience through Lewis County. This historic byway was
crucial during the First Campaign of the Civil War, and holds
fascinating stories of Civil War raids, gold robberies and
remarkable citizens. Among the listed historical sites along the
way is the Trans Allegheny Lunatic Asylum. Step back in time
on the walking tour of the Asylum and the grounds. Identified
on the Civil War Trails map as a vital location during the
conflict, this is an excellent stop. Exploration of this venue will
certainly cause reflection upon history and nature as numerous
historical buildings are found along this byway. This National
Historic Landmark is the largest hand cut stone building in
America and provides indoor tours as well as Cemetery and farm
tours conducted from an open air wagon.
Christmas is a wonderful time to experience Weston’s
Historical Walking Tour. This self guided tour along the historic
streets features homes well over one hundred years old and at
this time of year they are dressed in their holiday finest.
Downtown Weston will be lit with the dancing snowflakes and
Santa Christmas light display for the enjoyment of residents and
visitors.
A variety of trails can be found in Lewis County and all are
surrounded by the
abundant natural beauty of
the West Virginia hills. A
warm welcome is extended
to all, to visit and
experience Lewis County.
Sherry Lambert
Executive Director
Lewis County Chamber
of Commerce
West Virginia Retirement Times
For additional information, contact:
Audrey Williams, Executive Director
Nicholas County Alive! DRC
P.O. Box 385
Summersville, WV 26651-0385
email: nichdrc@gmail.com
(304) 872-1112
Summersville Chamber of Commerce
(304) 872-1588
email: info@summersvillechamber.com
CALENDAR OF EVENTS:
October 6-12‚ Annual Mountain
Color Art Show
City Hall, Richwood.
Info 304-846-6782
Last Of October‚ Annual Community
Halloween Block Party
Summersville. Info 304-872-1211
Last Of October‚ Annual Harvest Party
Richwood. Info 304-846-6790
First/middle November‚Annual Holiday
Extravaganza Arts & Crafts Show
Summersville Armory Arena.
Info 304-872-3722
November 9‚14th Annual Thanksgiving
Gospel Sing
Old Main Building, Summersville.
Info 304-872-1112
First December‚Annual Richwood
Christmas Parade
Downtown Richwood.
Info 304-846-2591
First December‚ Annual Summersville
Christmas Parade
Downtown Summersville.
Info 304-872-1211
First Of December‚ Annual Christmas
Arts & Crafts Show
Nicholas County High School,
Summersville
Info 304-872-2141
January 4, 2014‚ 9th Annual New Year
Community Benefit Gospel Sing
Summersville Baptist Church,
Summersville.
Info 304-872-1112
First Of March 2014‚ Annual Home
& Garden Show
Summersville.
Info 304-742-6320
Mid April 2014‚ Annual Feast
Of The Ramson
Richwood High School, Richwood
Info 304-846-6790
City of
Summersville
partners
with seniors
8
Fall & Winter 2013
TRAILS ARE UNFORGETTABLE, PART I
Nicholas County is blessed with access to biking and hiking
trails by the mile. Travel difficulty ranges from essentially-level
terrain to true ‘mountain’ hiking/biking. Throw in pristine rivers
and streams—along with seasonal flora and fauna—and a hike or
bike trip may be just what the doctor ordered. In many trail
locations, visitors are greeted with peace and quiet.
This area boasts at least three distinct trail systems. The
‘
Muddlety Valley Trail is accessed in or near Summersville,
while Cranberry Tri-Rivers Rail Trail is situated in and near
Richwood. Finally, the Monongahela National Forest, Gauley
District trail system may be accessed just east of Richwood.
The best bet for using Muddlety Valley Trail, is to contact
City of Summersville, at 304-872-1211
(web http://www.summersvillewv.org/
index.php?option=
com_frontpage&
Itemid=1) to request
mapping and related
information.
Cranberry TriRivers Rail Trail
starts at the restored
Richwood rail depot,
westward along
Cherry River, then
bends northward
along Gauley River.
The trail passes by
the mouth of
Cranberry River
toward its end,
approximately four
more miles north.
Cranberry Tri-Rivers Rail Trail is a gentle
trail of less than three-per cent grade
throughout. Richwood Area Chamber of
Commerce can supply mapping and other
information, at 304-846-6790 (web http://
www.richwoodchamberofcommerce.org/
Richwood-CofC-ContactInfo.html)
City of
Richwood
partners
with seniors
Gauley District, of the Monongahela National Forest (see
photo: fall at Red Lick Overlook on the Highland Scenic
Highway), has many miles of trail, from gentle to challenging
terrain. Extensive mapping and additional information is
available at 304-846-2695 (web http://www.fs.usda.gov/
recarea/mnf/recarea/?recid=6983). The friendly folk at the
district office and Cranberry Mountain Visitor Center would
be delighted to help make your trail experience a good one.
One word of caution: “Preparation.” Preparation includes
having the right hiking/biking clothing and equipment, a
partner to join you, and reliable communications with family
and friends. Since our area trails are—by nature—remote,
there may be no cell phone service, depending upon phone
carrier, weather or location. Give travel plans to family and
friends (or the local ranger’s office) and test communications
before you head out. Mountain weather can turn from sunny
to seriously threatening in a matter of minutes. The
appropriate travel gear can help minimize adverse conditions
that bikers and hikers may encounter.
Enjoy the scenery and solitude that will be
found on our trail systems. Have a great
time.
Robert Johnson
Mayor, City of Richwood
J&J Body/Frame
& Towing, Inc.
24 Hour Towing & Road Service
Body Shop & Auto Repair
Accepted • M/C & Visa Accepted
Heavy Hauling In-State & Out-of-State
3664 Canvas Nettie Rd.
Canvas, WV 26662
304-872-0952
Joe Humphreys, Owner
9
West Virginia Retirement Times
Fall & Winter 2013
TRAILS ARE UNFORGETTABLE, PART II
In addition to the unforgettable trails mentioned in
Part I, Nicholas County has miles of trails to explore
in places that you might not be aware of. And, these
places are rich in local history.
Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park‚
Civil War
Discovery
Trails
The Park has done just that in a variety of ways: a
Veteran’s Memorial Monument, home for the local
4-H Camp, location for over 80 years for the
Annual Nicholas County Fair, and a park that
includes — picnic facilities, a playground,
skateboard park, a kitchen and banquet room, and
much more. Also, The Historic One Room School
Museum and The Nicholas Memorial Golf Course
are located on the Park grounds.
Nestled on the
rim of the
Gauley River
National
Recreation
Area, Carnifex
Ferry
Battlefield State
Park (see
photo) is an
important Civil
War battlefield
site and it is an
official Civil
War Discovery Trail Site. The Discovery Trail links
more than 300 sites in 16 states to inspire and to
teach the story of the Civil War. The Carnifex Trails
include Old Ferry, Patterson, and Pierson Hollow.
The Park, also, includes the historic Patterson House
Civil War Museum (see photo), overlooks of the
Gauley River, picnic facilities, and playground.
Our Unforgettable Trails Are Calling You
Summersville Lake‚ Trail Network
The Summersville Lake is West Virginia’s largest
lake with over 2,800 acres of water and 60 miles of
shoreline. This shoreline and adjacent acreage
includes miles of networked trails full of beautiful
views. One such view is on the Long Point Trail
which ends at the Long Point Cliff (see photo) with a
view of the Lake and is a 4-mile round trip. Other
Summersville Lake Trails are Battle Run and Salmon
Run. The Lake has plenty of room for not only
hiking; but, boating, water skiing, swimming, scuba
diving, fishing, camping, rock climbing, and a full
service marina. The Summersville Lake is the result
of the building of the Summersville Dam which was
dedicated by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1966.
The Nicholas County Veterans Memorial
Park‚ Nature Trail in Summersville weaves
through the Park’s forest which borders Muddlety
Creek. The Park’s Nature Trail includes a fire pit
with surrounding bleachers and a recently built
outdoor classroom. The Nicholas County Veterans
Memorial Park (see photo) began as a large farm. In
the early 1940’s, it was donated to Nicholas County
with the stipulation that it be used to honor our
World War II Veterans and for recreation for our
children.
NICHOLAS PHARMACY
421 Main Street
Summersville, WV 26651
304-872-2777
NEIGHBORS CARING FOR NEIGHBORS
FREE Home deliveries of prescriptions
in Nicholas County and Cowen
“It’s nice to know you have a neighbor that cares.”
Additional Trail Facts‚ Historical
The Summersville and Richwood area trails are
located within walking/driving distance of many
historical buildings including the entire downtown
Historic District of Richwood and several buildings
in Summersville. Also, several historic sites are
found along the Muddlety Summersville Trail
including the Starbuck Textile Mill, The Campbell
Power Plant, and the first 4-H Camp in
Summersville.
New River Trading
Forest • Streams • Dreams
613 Hughes Streets
Summersville, WV
- OPEN Monday - Saturday
9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Monongahela National Forest Is Your Back Door
(304) 872-3137
BRUCE DONALDSON, PRESIDENT
We Buy: Ginseng,
Yellow Root and
Other Root and Herbs
Call for price and full list
190 Middletown Road
Richwood, WV 26261
(304) 846-2862
Nicholas County invites you to answer that call.
And when you do answer—you can stay in one of
our lodging options which includes hotels, motels,
bed & breakfast locations, lodges, and campgrounds.
And when you do answer—you can eat at our many
restaurant options including national well known
chain restaurants and local restaurants.
And when you do answer; we know that you will
enjoy our unforgettable trails, history, and beauty.
We look forward to seeing you.
Audrey Williams
Executive Director
Nicholas County Alive! DRC
Note:
*Photos and
information for these
articles (unless
otherwise noted) were
provided by: Carnifex
Ferry Battlefield State
Park, City of
Summersville,
Summersville CVB,
Richwood CVB,
Richwood Chamber of
Commerce, and Salute
To The Richwood
Newsleader ‚ by Luther
Baker.
433 Craigsville Road, Suite 2
Craigsville, WV 26205
FAST, DEPENDABLE SERVICE!
304-742-5001
Hours: M-F 9AM-7PM
SAT 9AM-2PM • SUN. Closed
LOSCH &
MCCOURT, PLLC
Sheltered Workshop of
Nicholas County, Inc.
William A.
McCourt, Jr.
1-800-404-0053
500 Court St.
Summersville, WV 26651
304-872-5651 (Phone)
304-872-5652 (Fax)
16810 Webster Road
PO Drawer 730
Craigsville, WV 26205
• Silkscreen
• UPS Shipping
• Document Shredding
• Bottled Water Distribution
www.swnicholas.com
Community Rehabilitation Program
10
West Virginia Retirement Times
Fall & Winter 2013
Greater Morgantown DRC
Take advantage of our scenic beauty
Calendar of Events
Activities, Fairs & Festivals
Want more information?
Call 1-800-458-7373 or visit us at
www.tourmorgantown.com
Sept 7-8 WV Wine and Jazz Festival
Sept 26-29 Preston County Buckwheat Festival
Oct 4 Arts Walk
Arts Monongahela
Want more information? Call 304-2916720 or visit us at www.artsmon.org
Monongalia County Parks
Chestnut Ridge Park
Want more information?
Call 304-594-1773 or visit us at
www.chestnutridgepark.com
Camp Muffly 4-H Camp
Want more information?
Call 304-284-8484
Mason-Dixon Historical Park
Want more information?
Call 304-879-4101 or visit us at
www.masondixonhistoricalpark.com
Monongalia Arts Center
Want more information?
Call 304-292-3325 or visit us at
www.monarts.bizland.com
Mon & Wed Zumba Fitness
Tuesdays Life Drawing Studio Sessions
Thursdays Morgantown Poets
(Third Thursday/month)
Saturdays Drum Circle (First and Second
Saturdays/month)
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
Want more information? Call 304-2931793 or visit us at www.olliatwvu.org
Senior Monongalians, Inc.
Want more information? Call 304-2969812 or visit us at www.seniormons.org
West Virginia Botanic Garden
Want more information? Call 304-5940153 or visit us at www.wvbg.org
West Virginia Public Theatre
Want more information?
Call 1-877-999-9878 or visit us at
www.wvpublictheatre.com
West Virginia University
Want more information? Call 304-293SHOW or visit us at http://
calendar.wvu.edu/
Sept 13 University Arts Series: Whoopi Goldberg
Sept 20 Creative Arts Center: John Turner
Sept 23 University Arts Series: Buddy-The Buddy
Holly Story
Sept 28 WVU Football vs. Oklahoma State
Oct 19 WVU Football vs. Texaa Tech
Nov 6 University Arts Series: Kathy Griffin
Nov 9 WVU Football vs. Texas
Nov 13 University Arts Series: Hello Dolly! Starring
sally Struthers
Nov 29 WVU Football vs. Iowa State
Dec 8 University Arts Series: Kenny Rogers
Dec 12 University Arts Series: Moscow Ballet’s Great
Russian Nutcracker
Dec 14 15th Annual B.E. Taylor Holiday Concert
Jan 16 University Arts Series: William ShatnerShatner’s World
Jan 25 University Arts Series: Godspell
Feb 11 University Arts Series: Soweto Gospel Choir
Mar 3 University Arts Series: Man of La Mancha
Mar 17 University Arts Series: RAIN-A Tribute to
the Beatles
Mar 23 University Arts Series: The Irish Tenors
Mar 25 University Arts Series: Menopause the
Musical
Apr 27 University Arts Series: Pittsburg Ballet
Theatre’s Swan Lake
Fall is the perfect time to take
advantage of Morgantown’s
scenic beauty and comfortable
weather. From exciting outdoor
adventures to colorful mountains
and fun fairs and festivals,
Morgantown provides a variety of
fall fun and the perfect setting for
an autumn weekend getaway.
Do you enjoy the rugged terrain
of the mountains as a hiker, biker
or rock climber? Greater
Morgantown area forests are
perfect for those seeking the thrill
of the outdoors. Outdoor
enthusiasts can get all the
adventure they can hope for at
Coopers Rock State Forest or
nearby Chestnut Ridge Park.
Over 50 miles of trails wind over
ridges, valleys and cliffs and the
main overlook provides one of
the most breathtaking views of
the Cheat River at Coopers Rock,
and Chestnut Ridge Park also provides
license-free catch and release fishing.
For a more relaxing stroll or bike ride,
try the Caperton Trail that runs along the
Monongahela River through the heart of
Morgantown. Connecting trails, like
Decker’s Creek Trail and Mon Trail, will
connect you to Preston County or
Marion County, where the terrain goes
from paved to crushed limestone and
the elevation climbs to over 1,000 feet.
Access all three from the Hazel Ruby
McQuain Riverfront Park. Take the
Mon Trail North and stop off with the
kids at Tugboat Depot. The kids will
love playing on this playground
located just along the trail.
While outdoor adventures are
a main attraction in the Greater
Morgantown area, the wide
range of fairs and festivals is a
must see as well. Start the
season off with the West
Virginia Wine and Jazz
Festival, September 7-8, at
Camp Muffly. Join local and
regional wineries, live jazz
musicians, artisans and
gourmet food vendors for this
ID required event. Come
experience a local favorite at
the “Spirit of WV award
winning” Preston County
Buckwheat Festival
(September 22-29). The
Buckwheat Festival is rich in
history and provides the
weekend or local attendee with
a pleasant afternoon.
When October rolls around,
leaf peeping season is in full
swing. The mountains are a
masterful quilt of colors. But,
come for the leaf peeping and
stay for the events. October’s
hit-list is just as exciting! On October
4th, Main Street Morgantown, Arts
Monongahela and WVU Parent’s Club
partner up with a wonderful event.
WVU Fall Family weekend and the
Arts Walk have collaborated together
for a fun filled weekend. Friday night
starts with Arts Walk where
downtown businesses and restaurants
will stay late to showcase live music,
local artisans and great dining. A
relaxing evening strolling through
downtown is what this event shares.
And the most anticipated event of the
fall is naturally, Mountaineer Football
season. Tickets are still available at 1800-WVU GAME or email to
WVUGAME@mail.wvu.edu. The
Friday night Homecoming Parade is
always a favorite. And, if you don’t
have a ticket, pick a seat in one of the
local restaurants. We’re sure you’ll
join up with some Mountaineer fans,
those with tickets or without.
Homecoming weekend rolls around
October19th versus Texas Tech.
For more information about area
attractions and events, please contact
the Greater Morgantown Convention
& Visitors Bureau at 800-458-7373 or
online at www.tourmorgantown.com.
Or stop by our location in the Wharf
District, located at 68 Donley Street,
one block up from the Rail Trail.
By: Cindy Coffindaffer,
Greater Morgantown CVB
Director of Marketing
West Virginia Retirement Times
11
Fall & Winter 2013
Welcome to Morgantown, WV!
“#1 Best City in America”
– BIZJOURNALS.COM
Mention this ad and receive free relocation
information from the Morgantown Area
Chamber of Commerce.
1-800-618-2525
OSHER LIFELONG
LEARNING
INSTITUTE AT WVU
An Institute for Learning in Retirement
It’s time again for one of West Virginia’s favorite festivals –
the Preston County Buckwheat Festival!
This year’s event will be held on September 26-29 in Kingwood,
and offers three days of fun and food for visitors of all ages.
The theme for 2013 is “Where Volunteers Make it Happen,”
sponsored by the Kingwood Volunteer Fire Department.
Activities include a parade, carnival, arts & crafts vendors, music, Irish Road
Bowling and, of course, the world famous buckwheat cakes with sausage!
Other food items like pulled pork, chicken and hot dogs are also available.
If you would like more information, please contact the
Preston County Visitors’ Center at 800-571-0912 or
visit the Buckwheat Festival website at www.buckwheatfest.com. Join us for classes
and activities!
(304) 293-1793
learners@hsc.wvu.edu