New River Gorge Archives - Page 5 of 6

Are You Prejudiced Against Trees?

The New River Gorge (our backyard) is filled with trees. So what’s one more?

What follows is the story of our Royal Paulownia Tree, AKA the Princess Tree, and its life at Opossum Creek Retreat…

Scrophulariaceae) by James R. Allison, GA DNR, Bugwood.org — Princess tree blossoms

It’s weird to think that, if you packed your china in some seed pods to protect them (the original packing peanuts) on the long journey to your new job, that hundreds of years later your packing peanuts’ offspring might attack someone’s building foundation!

Science fiction its not.

Immigrants from the Far East used the seed pods from the Royal Paulownia Tree or Empress Tree as packing peanuts for a long time. Trains rattling up and down the New River Gorge brought in goods from all over the world to the people who lived in the great river valley (mostly the mine managers and owners). When the recipients opened their boxes, the seeds fell out on the ground.

Those seeds love disturbed soil like along train tracks or all around new towns like the ones being built during the coal mining days. Or, you know, next to the foundation of The Meadows Cabin. We found the damage the tree had caused when we excavated and put in a new drain system in preparation for the timber frame great room addition.

Now, the tree in question was a favorite, and anyone who’s been to Opossum Creek Retreat knows that we go a long way to blend the cabins into the rest of the environment. I mean, some of the trees are ridiculously close to where we built, but what can I say? I’m a tree hugger.

The Paulonwia is “an invasive plant species”, and to some that means it should be eradicated. The likelihood of that happening is about as high as getting rid of Starlings (I like them too). While it is not native, it’s been here for a long, long time. I wonder how long something has to be in a place to be from there?

It is doing very well here, and lots of people (including me) like the tree. It’s beautiful. I’m sure that way back when, even before us humans, things got moved around and took up residence wherever that volcano or hurricane blew them. Did that make them invasive? Just sayin’.

If a plant or animal happens to have ended up someplace new, with or without human help, is it really invasive? Or is it just part of evolution, in the long run? I’m sure some people will always look at newcomers to an area as invasive. But I guess that’s a rant for another blog.

I’m not saying invasive species don’t exist. They do. But I sure did hate to cut down our Princess Tree.

Beat The Heat

Baby, it’s hot out there! I’m talking about the New River Gorge in West Virginia. Y’know, the big backyard for our cabin rentals.

I remember when I made the move here in 1992 from Central Florida. My dad and I rented the box truck, loaded it and made the trip. It was July and it was H-O-T in the old F-L-A. When we arrived here, the temperatures were in the high 70’s, and dad was digging for his sweatshirts and long pants. We were only here for a day or two before we headed back, just long enough to unload the truck.

The mountains of the New River area are usually a cool retreat from the hot south. Even when the temperatures are in the 90’s you can always find relief in the shade of the hemlocks or an old maple. Mom and dad would come for several weeks during the summer to visit, and when the temps went up you could find dad in the shade of the big maple in the front yard. He was always amazed at how much cooler it was there. “It’s gotta be twenty degrees cooler under here” he’d say, and invite me under to sit a while.

There are plenty of cool things to do here when the heat is on.

One hot afternoon on the way home I decided to take a drive down to Fayette Station, just for kicks. When I got there I ran into some friends who were cooling off in the river. I kicked off my shoes and joined them in the water. We floated and caught up since it had been a while. Floating with friends is a pretty cool way to spend an afternoon.

Summersville lake is another cool spot that’s close to Opossum Creek Retreat. There are some great swimming holes, and you can enjoy the cool clear water of the lake, fed by the Gauley River. My daughter Al and I have had some great times playing in the water at Battle Run Camping area and beach.

Of course a whitewater rafting trip will give you plenty of opportunities to get wet and cool down. That always helps beat the heat. On the Lower New River there are a few long pools that are great for swimming alongside the boat. And if a more controlled environment is what your after the Fayette County Park has a pool that offers some refreshing public swimming, and lifeguards too.

There are also plenty of hiking trails that wind through the heavily forested areas of the New River Gorge. Remember “it’s gotta be twenty degrees cooler under here,” from my dad? Fern Creek trail is a “cool” walk with some beautiful views of the gorge.

So, when it gets too hot where you are, come try the New River Gorge National River. It’s our backyard. And we’re pretty sure it will quench the fire.

The Secret To Hiking With Kids

Hiking with kids in and around the New River Gorge of West Virginia is all about going nowhere fast…

I am a mountain of patience. I am mountain of patience. I am a mountain of patience. Aaand breathe.

That’s how I recommend starting each hike with kids. You can try starting each day that way, too. Best of luck with that.

When they’re little, anything (and I mean anything) will stop them in their tracks and halt the hike. The older they get the more creative the diversions become. They make up games to play, and still later we look at birds and bugs and plants to break up the march.

From the kids we can learn a very important concept to understand and embrace: The destination is secondary to the hike.

The value in going for a hike is not the part where are feet move it is the part when we stop and talk, look, listen, explore, play, snack and wonder. Yeah there is a great view at a beautiful overlook but don’t overlook the value of taking your time. Enjoy the distractions along the way.

Here’s some stuff to make sure you bring:

water
snacks
wipes (hey, they’re not just for babies!)
camera
patience

Ultimately, that last one’s the secret. Be patient. The whole idea is to make sure that you’re somewhere memorable (the trail) with someone you love (the kids).

Here are some things to leave behind, or at least to not use:

phone
temper
phone
watch
phone

True, there’s some safety in having a phone and watch with you. But you have to balance that with how tempting they are to use. If you can keep them in your bag except for emergencies, great.

But if you’re renting a cabin, and you’re just out to spend a little time on the trails around the gorge, consider leaving them back. I can say from experience that you’ll enjoy yourself a lot more if you can devote yourself to just walking around in the woods for a while.

Your kids will too.

Why River Guides Are Awesome A Former New River Raft Guide Speaks

My first spring here in West Virginia, I was training to be a whitewater raft guide in the New River Gorge. In March.

Right. It was cold. Unbelievably cold.

Right down there is where you'll find your guide.

A lot of our initial trips found us on the icy river with snow still on the banks and freezing air. I wondered to myself if I was crazy for being out here in those conditions. The verdict is still out. Kind of.

Now that I’m older and wiser I doubt that I would do it over again in the early spring. But any guides do this every year; they come to train or be trained as a guide here in the New River Gorge. One of the guides who trained us that year was Jeff “Tiny” Elliott. At first, I figured Tiny was crazy. Later, I realized it wasn’t just him. They’re all that way. It’s a good kind of crazy.

Tiny many of our trips that spring fun and he was able to teach me a lot about the river. He had guided all over and was well versed in hydrology. He made reading a river seem simple and interesting while at the same time making sure all was well with the entire team of trainers and trainees.

That’s what guides do. They’re not only here to provide a great experience for the guests, they also have to be aware of all that is going on on the ever changing river. They make sure that everyone pulls their own weight in the boat and take up the slack for those who can’t. All of this to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip on the river. River guides are often full of…what’s the word…lore…yeah, that’s it… and interesting facts about the area and what went on here in years past.

River guides are awesome. Think about it:

They know the river
They know their history
They know their flora and fauna
They are educated in first aid and some are EMT’s
Some of them can cook
They are responsible for hundreds of people each season

The list goes on and on. Try a raft trip on either the New or the Gauley River this year (we can help you out if you don’t know what trip to book). Quiz your guides, and you’ll be surprised at what they know. I know I always am.

5 Activities You Shouldn’t Miss With Your Kids In The New River Gorge

My daughter and I grew up together, here in the New River Gorge.

We have been exploring it since she was just a tot. We hunt, fish, hike, pretty much anything outdoors. Alex is in College now, but we still get out when we can (I’m looking forward to some time together this summer).

Any time you can spend together with your children is quality time. There is a lot to do still, and we’ll eventually get it all in. Eventually.

There are just way too many things to try and do, even on a short visit to the New River Gorge. Here are five things you shouldn’t miss with your kids while you’re here:

1.) Somehow, some way, you need to get on the river. Whether it’s a playful float on the upper New River or thrill filled “white” water excursion on the Lower, you’ll find the day exhilarating and full of great memories. I can remember Alex when she was just seven or eight years old, paddling around and singing “Just Around The River Bend” from Disney’s Pocahontas.

2.) Horseback riding is another don’t-miss experience, especially in Babcock State Park. Babcock Stables offers you a not so usual horseback ride as it is set in the pristine woods in and around the state park. There are high mountain vistas, and plenty of places to stop for a rest and enjoy the wild outdoors. Not your typical gravel road ride. Wildlife abound in the park, so chances are you’ll be seeing plenty during your ride. Years ago on a ride here Alex said, “This reminds me of the old pioneer days, Dad!”

3.) Hiking Long Point trail is a great way to spend an evening with the whole family. A short, moderate trail the ends in a breathtaking view of the Gorge from on high. 3.2 miles round trip and not too difficult, this one makes for another awesome memory-maker. You’ll want to allow enough time to sit and take it all in when you reach the rock outcropping that overlooks the Gorge. It gives you a totally different perspective of the Bridge. Great family trip.

4.) The Tree Tops Canopy Tour is another adventure we love. Zipping along in the hemlock forest ranging from 20 to over 100 feet off the forest floor is now our favorite way to explore the forest and woodlands. Looking down into a blooming magnolia blossom is something you don’t get to experience too often. Watching canopy dwelling bird behavior at eye level is another. Not to mention the thrill of the ride. One zip is over seven hundred feet long! Wow! We’ll be talking about zipping in our family for a long time.

5.) Summersville Lake and Plum Orchard Lake are both great spots for a canoe or kayak excursion. Spend the day playing on the water, casually floating and cruising the steep banks of Summersville Lake. Exploring the hidden pockets of Plum Orchard Lake will give you a perspective not found or seen from the banks. Get out there and show your kids what there is to see!

How To Tell If You’re On Vacation In The New River Gorge

You can tell if you’re on vacation in the New River Gorge. There’s a feeling that you’ll never be able to do everything. A weekend is just not enough time.

I first came to the New River Gorge area in 1992, and I went through some culture shock for sure. I had always lived in high population areas and was used to that sort of lifestyle. From the burbs of Philadelphia PA to the Orlando area, there was always a BIG city around.

Still, I always managed to find the most rural areas to escape to, no matter where it was I lived. But when I came here, it wasn’t long before I realized I was in the escape place. A few months here (and outside of what had become my element) and a 40+ inch snow storm in March, and I was ready to go straight back to Florida. Thankfully though, I decided to give it a bit more time before packing my bags and hitting the road.

It’s been 18 years now and I still haven’t seen all there is to see in the Gorge area. If you love to be outside like I do, then West Virginia (especially the New River area) has plenty of excuses to get out and play.

Once I got acclimated to the area, and got to know some local friendly folks, history, and lore, I became fascinated with the area. I began to explore almost all the area has to offer. Now, I find it hard to imagine myself being away from here for too long a period. Even on short trips away I find myself pining for the mountains that I call home.

I love to help get our guests headed in the right direction. I know- my job rocks. Whether folks are into high adventure or a little walking exploration, a typical day at OCR is anything but typical. You may be rafting on the New or Gauley River, climbing with New River Mountain Guides, taking a tour of Summersville Lake in a Kayak, or simply hiking some of the 70 miles of trails that live inside the park boundaries. To be in the woods in the Gorge area can be a therapeutic escape in any season.

If you’re completely relaxed, exhilarated, content, and really really happy, then it’s probably a good bet that you’re on vacation in the New River Gorge.

When’s The Best Time To Bring A Youth Group To The New River Gorge?

When I was a kid, long before I knew about the New River Gorge, one of my favorite things to do was get away with a group of like aged and minded kids. Usually the Boy Scouts of America.

Getting out in the woods and exploring and getting in touch with nature was a great way to spend a couple of days. Turning over rocks to see what lived there was a great activity and then to think we are to be responsible for taking care of all of this was a really cool too. It gave a sense of pride and authority.

I would have gone winter, summer, spring, fall… it didn’t matter. So when I think about youth groups coming here to West Virginia, I’ve got to go with my gut: any time of year is a great time to be in the gorge.

Spring is time to get out and explore. When winter begins to turn loose its grip and life begins to renew itself, this is the place to be. At the right time of year you can transition in elevation and experience total leaf-out down in the gorge, and bare trees in the higher elevations such as Cranberry Glades. If you time it just right, you can witness the evolution of spring all in the same day. (FYI: you can find some spectacular deals on area activities and lodging at this time of year.)

Summer rolls around and the weather is warmer. It’s time to get in the water. White water rafting is one of the area’s largest outdoor activities. If the high adventure thing isn’t for you, you can opt to take a scenic, relaxing kayak or canoe tour of one of the local lakes (which happen to be awesome). Canopy tours and the public beach at Summersville lake are also a favorite summer pastime.

Fall is my favorite time of the year. The leaves change and the air turns crisp. Bluebird skies and cool breezes flow over the scenic mountains. A day trip to the highlands to visit some of the scenic overlooks and view the colors of fall is where you want to concentrate your efforts. Fall is also the season for rafting the Gauley River, a controlled release river that offers some of the most technical rafting in the country.

Winter is the time that many church youth groups come to the area to take advantage of our close proximity to some great skiing. Plus nothing says “retreat” like winter in the mountains. The winter wonderland setting of the New River Gorge area is a perfect place to gather your group and have some good old fashioned wintertime fun.

So that’s it. I’m not taking a stand. If you want to know when the best time to come up this way with a youth group is, I’ve got to answer honestly: Anytime. Any time at all.

5 Things Everyone Needs For A Beginner Bike Trip

This is easy.

That’s why we’re beginners, right? We like things easy. The easier it is, the more comfy we are when we fall on our faces. Easy makes things, especially outside things, better.

Check out this video we made last year…

So, with a trip like that in mind, here are 5 things that are absolutely indispensable to a New River Gorge mountain bike ride:

A bike.
Water. Skip the snacks and go out to lunch or dinner after the ride. You don’t even need to go back to the cabin to change- dirty mountain bikers aren’t unusual around town at all. Plus, it fits in with #4.
Lazy pump/co2 thing (see video).
Kids. They make it more fun. Why? They know how to take lots of brakes and look around and be amazed. If you don’t have kids handy, just try and remember what it was like and act like one you’re in the woods. No one you know will see you. Probably.
Pace yourself. This is not a race (well, it may be a race to get to the restaurant for lunch after the ride. Or, y’know, beer). But for now just take your time and enjoy the ride.

If you’re interested in going outside and testing the five tried-and-true principles for a successful beginners ride, the trail in the vid is the Cunard Trail. It’s flat and wide, and you can rent a great bike around town. They’ll even take you there and pick you up. And, they have guides!

The setup is perfect for beginners. Now all we need is have you come here and be as inexperienced as me.

Top 10 Reasons The Bird Fest Rocks

Let me just say this: The New River Birding And Nature Festival is so much fun.

A lot of work, yes. But who cares? It’s totally worth it. If you’re here, you know what I’m talking about. If you’re not, you should be.

Here are 10 reasons why:

-The Food. Local restaurants help us out with the fare, and its hard to stay the same size this week.

-Walking In The Rain. It rains here. If you’re ready for it, it’s quit enjoyable, and bird friendly. (beautiful sunshine today, though!)

-Anticipation. We work on this festival all year. People who come look forward to it all year. Maybe that’s why it’s great when we finaly get to start birding.

-The Face Ache. You know, from smiling so much.

-The Presentations. Nothing like a little edification for some after dinner fun. The presentations are enjoyable, informative, and, hey, they aid digestion!

-Spring In The Forest. ‘Nuff said.

–ZIPLINE!

-Making People Happy. This one’s kind of a gimme, since, as a cabin rental guy, it’s what I try to do all the time. But still, you really can’t get to much.

-Great Conversations. I’ve, um, been known to talk. A lot. So it shouldn’t be any surprise to people that know me that this makes the list. I’ll just say that, during the fest, I find myself doing a lot more listening.

-New Friends And Old. Best thing about the fest, hands down. As I’ve said before, you don’t need birds to make a good day birding. It’s all about the people. Especially these people.

And lastly…

Making A Difference In Someone’s Life. It’s not me; it’s the whole thing. The people. The camaraderie. The New River Gorge. Oh, and the birds. Let’s not forget them. The fest makes people’s lives richer. Especially mine.