What makes us unique?

This post was originally published on this siteThe Mid-Ohio Valley is famous for its history, local eats and hidden quaint towns. A prominent example of that combination is the town of Parkersburg in Wood County, which is home to more than 82,000 acres of public lands and parks. The perfect 48-hour getaway begins here in Almost Heaven. Hike Through History Did you know that there’s an island in West Virginia? There are multiple, but Blennerhassett Island is a hidden gem in the Ohio River. Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park features a Palladian mansion, a history museum and horse and carriage rides around the island. An unexpected bonus is the journey there and back: a 20-minute ride on a 19th-century-style sternwheeler. For history lovers and avid hikers alike, Fort Boreman Historical Park is located just two miles from downtown Parkersburg. This park has a reconstructed Union Civil War fortification, informative signage, a scenic nature trail, trenches and a great view of the city. West Virginia played a major role in the petroleum industry starting in the 18th century. The Oil & Gas Museum is nationally recognized and outlines how the accumulation of wealth from the from oil shaped the Mountain State.

This post was originally published on this site Since West Virginia was declared a state on June 20th, 1863, the Mountain State has only become more beautiful with age. West Virginians and West Virginia lovers alike look forward to celebrating Almost Heaven’s birthday with the outdoors in mind. On the weekend leading up to West Virginia’s birthday, go offline and get outside for an uninterrupted bond with Almost Heaven. Everyone would love to see how you explored #AlmostHeaven. Here’s to another 160 years and counting. 1. Hike the Hills One of the many benefits of visiting West Virginia is the plethora of hiking trails to explore. Find your stride at Pipestem State Park’s 15 hiking trails, including Canyon Rim Trail, Long Branch Trail and others ranging in level of difficulty. To take a step back in time, explore a section of the 136-mile loop at George Washington Heritage Trail in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle. The route passes over 40 colonial, Civil War and abolition sites, adding some historical insight to your birthday celebration. For true view-seekers, let the breathtaking view from the Coopers Rock State Forest overlook blow out the candles. 2. Capture the Cascades Chasing waterfalls is easier than

This post was originally published on this site Since West Virginia was declared a state on June 20th, 1863, the Mountain State has only become more beautiful with age. West Virginians and West Virginia lovers alike look forward to celebrating Almost Heaven’s birthday with the outdoors in mind. On the weekend leading up to West Virginia’s birthday, go offline and get outside for an uninterrupted bond with Almost Heaven. Everyone would love to see how you explored #AlmostHeaven. Here’s to another 160 years and counting. 1. Hike the Hills One of the many benefits of visiting West Virginia is the plethora of hiking trails to explore. Find your stride at Pipestem State Park’s 15 hiking trails, including Canyon Rim Trail, Long Branch Trail and others ranging in level of difficulty. To take a step back in time, explore a section of the 136-mile loop at George Washington Heritage Trail in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle. The route passes over 40 colonial, Civil War and abolition sites, adding some historical insight to your birthday celebration. For true view-seekers, let the breathtaking view from the Coopers Rock State Forest overlook blow out the candles. 2. Capture the Cascades Chasing waterfalls is easier than

This post was originally published on this siteThe Monongahela National Forest is a wilderness area encompassing nearly one million acres in West Virginia. It allows its visitors to experience amazing outdoor recreation activities while taking in the pristine natural beauty of one of the most ecologically diverse areas in the United States. The Mon Forest Towns partnership was established to unite the small mountain towns that span the length of the forest, enhancing the quality of life of visitors and residents and maintaining the environment’s health. This collective highlights the best the Monongahela National Forest and its communities have to offer. Thomas & Davis This pair of charming small towns are less than three miles apart from each other and one is rarely mentioned without the other. Despite being located in the rugged, mountainous terrain of eastern West Virginia, these sister towns have a vibrant energy and are host to numerous beloved restaurants, unique boutiques and art galleries. Thomas may be most recognized by its picturesque main street. Historic brick buildings that look out of a frontier town, now filled with bright and lively local businesses all overlooking the nearby river and mountainside. Stroll through the former coal town and