You will also love the diversity of habitat here, including forests, old fields, and wetlands that attract birds and animals such as squirrels, deers, and rabbits. From your sit-on top kayak, you will get some exercise in the great outdoors. WVU is an EEO/Affirmative Action employer Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran. Many people think the sport is only for seasoned outdoor pros, but that couldnt be further from the truth. Like many other lakes in West Virginia, this Lake is a human-made impoundment that was created in 1959 by the damming. Low 48F. Phone: 304-466-1800 Email: pipestemsp@wv.gov Address: 3405 Pipestem Dr, Pipestem, WV 25979 History Pipestem Resort State Park gets its name from the native pipestem or meadowsweet plant. Pipestems popular aerial tramway whisks guests down 3,600 feet, from the canyon rim down to the Bluestone River Gorge below. Learn more about West Virginias rich rail history at the Hinton Railroad Museum. a real treat for anybody who wants to rough it! At one time, more millionaires lived here than anywhere else in America. Snacks and drinks provided. The Lake is habitat to various species of fish, so bring your fishing gear along with you. For generations, the descendants of Scotch, Irish and English farmers farmed the relatively flat plateau on the east side of the Bluestone River Gorge. Phone:304.293.5076 | *Offer is not available at Stonewall Resort State Park. The Corner Shop ice-cream parlor is another delight. Eleven miles of its lower course are protected by the National Park Service as the Bluestone National Scenic River. A post shared by Molly Wolff Photography (@mollywolffphotography), A post shared by Randy Mills (@itsrandymills), The 5 Best Kayak GPS Units in 2023: Reviews and Buyers Guide, The 10 Best Places To Kayak In Kansas City, Kayaking In And Around Door County: The 10 Best Places to Paddle and Canoe, Kayaking In And Around Madison WI: 10 of The Best Places to Paddle and Canoe, 10 Of The Best Places To Kayak Near Minneapolis. Explore the Wild and Wonderful National Parks of Southern West Virginia. The nearby Bluestone Wildlife Management Area is a favorite spot for hunters. Through much of its upper course, the Bluestone River descends slowly through a long, winding valley in which many coal mines operated in the early 1900s. Every day. Whether you are seeking out a calm day out on some still, relaxing waters, or you are ready to get your adrenaline pumping in whitewater, here are some of the best kayaking spots in West Virginia. New River Kayak Fishing (Highland Outdoors) Directions: The New River is in Southern WV near Hinton, WV. This is a video from 2014 on the Bluestone River. It also happens to be one of the best spots in the state for white water rafting and canoeing. Call Pipestem Stables at 304-466-1800 ext. A relatively level shoreline and woodland trail completely encircling Long Branch Lake. Bluestone rivers rapid classification can differ in sections of its 20,3-mile length, though it is rated at Class II to Class III. Through much of its upper course, the Bluestone River descends slowly through a long, winding valley in which many coal mines operated in the early 1900s. Delve into more historic artifacts, ranging from the Revolutionary War to present day, with special emphasis on World War II. According to most sources, settlers on the headwaters of the Bluestone River named the river for its course over bed of blue-tinged limestone. For more information, check the American Whitewater website: more information on current conditions http://www.americanwhitewater.org/content/River/detail/id/3091. West Virginia State Parks thanks you for your service. The rapids here range from class one to five, which requires you to paddle continuously a tiresome job if you are not used to. As seen in the video, the utility car used for carrying boats out is small; therefore, keep group sizes small as well. Get out there and dip your toes in! Choose from leisurely loops to challenging courses on the parks 20 different hiking trails. A recreational kayak (either sit-in or sit-on-top) will do the trick for paddling Mercer Countys lakes. The fertile valley, locally known as "Clover Bottom," was settled as early as 1775 by Mitchell Clay, who lost two children to Shawnee warriors shortly after settling. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph. Spend some time on the water at the parks new adventure lake and splash park or set out on a kayaking and stand-up paddle board tour, tubing or whitewater adventure on the Bluestone River. This trail begins along park road 0.1 mile down the hill from Park Headquarters. Its close to the Appalachian Mountains, and the surrounding forests and hills provide a scenic view that is to-die-for. . Call 304-466-0156 to hear a recording of river levels before heading out. West Virginia, The Mountain State, is known for its breathtaking mountain scenery, unparalleled outdoor recreation possibilities, and some of the friendliest people in all of the United States. This was a beautiful float on a cold fall day, kayaking with the great crew of Dana,. One different way to see the area? It descends into Lick Hollow and then routes back up to the rim of the hollow where there is a beautiful view of the Bluestone Canyon. This hiking and biking trail follows the route of early Americans who used this river gorge as a means of navigating across this rugged landscape hundreds and even thousands of years ago. Remarkable waterfalls and lush, thick forests make this park a Mercer County highlight. This trail begins at the Mountain Creek Lodge parking area at Canyon Rim Center. River trips may also be subject to availability of the tram provided by Pipestem Resort State Park. Get out there and dip your toes in! It is however a journey to distinctive isolation, majestic beauty, and unparalleled access to wildlife. Calling all veterans and active duty military personnel! First Amendment: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. *Offer is not available at Stonewall Resort State Park. In addition to traditional par 3 golf, the short course offers, fling golf and foot golf. Adults and youth can enjoy the views and calm, flat water that makes this an adventure to remember. Bring your own sled or cross-country skis or stop by Pipestems Pro Shop for rental information! Mountain Creek Lodge and Restaurant are seasonal by nature. Please note: The Reflections at Canyon Rim gift shop will temporarily move to the Blue & Gold Room in the 18-hole championship pro shop complex located near McKeever Lodge. The Bluestone River and the rugged and ancient gorge it has carved is a richly diverse and scenic area of the southern Appalachians. Winds W at 15 to 25 mph.. Mostly clear. It was in that valley where Mitchell and Phoebe Clay established their doomed home. View the Mountain Creek Dining Room menu. This adventure is great for those 8 years old and older and can also be a nice rainy-day activity. From swirling hydraulics to big waves and sweeping waterfalls, West Virginia gives you a taste of everything. With a mix of tranquil flatwater and dramatic rapids, the Cheat River may provide various paddling options. The put-in is either at the Bluestone Dam or the confluence of the Greenbrier and New Rivers (Google directions below). A valid military ID must be presented at check in. Experience the thrill of soaring through the treetops of West Virginia and beholding panoramic views of flourishing forest and river below on thePipestem Peaks Zipline. Cool off in the warmer months at Pipestems brand new. The 6 Best Inflatable Tandem Kayaks in 2023, The 5 Best Inflatable Whitewater Kayaks in 2023. September 15th - May 14th: The site fee is $15 per night and $75 per week. Open daily 24/7. It then descends into the woods, crosses two knobs, passes Indian Branch Falls (1.2 miles) and ends at the River Trail. Find a full list of current hours and recreational activity rates at Pipestem. From there the river is class II-III with the harder rapids coming at the end. The Bluestone Valley Trails Committee has been making progress on its plans to create venues for kayaking on the Bluestone River and new trails for hiking and other outdoor recreation, County . McKeever Lodge features an indoor pool with accompanying sauna and fitness center. Activities: Book your reservation today by calling 1-833-WV-PARKS Paddle Boats $8/Half Hour The majority of Tygart Lake State Park is surrounded by water, with a launch right next to the marina. Its good to note that boat ramps and kayak rentals are available at Moncove Lake State Park. Kayaking the whitewater Bluestone National Scenic River, West Virginia 1080p - YouTube My first run down a beautiful 17+ mile whitewater (American Whitewater Class II-III rated; running 7.5. Contact Greg Jordan at gjordan@bdtonline.com, Contact Greg Jordan at gjordan@bdtonline.com. From this intersection it is 8.5 miles to Bluestone State Park. Area to Parsons), South Branch of the Potomac(US 220 to Smoke Hole Picnic Area), South Branch of the Potomac(Smoke Hole Picnic Area to Petersburg), South Branch of the Potomac (Petersburg to Sector), Williams River (Tea Creek to Three Forks). Its like you could almost walk down into the river. The scenic vistas offer you the perfect setting for multiple outdoor activities. Google directions below are to the put-in at Spanishburg, Anthony Creek (Neola to Greenbrier River), Bluestone River (Spanishburg to Eads Mill), Bluestone River (Eads Mill to Bluestone SP), Dry Fork of the Cheat(CR 26 to Hendricks), Gauley River (Curtin Bridge to Persinger Creek), Meadow River (East Rainelle to Russellville), New River (Glen Lyn, VA to Bull Falls, WV), North Branch of the Potomac (Styer to Shalamar), North Branch of the Potomac (Barnum to Bloomington), North Fork of the South Branch of the Potomac (Judy Gap to Seneca Rocks), North Fork of the South Branch of the Potomac (Seneca to Hopeville), North Fork of the South Branch of the Potomac (Hopeville Canyon), Shavers Fork (Stuart Rec. Although numerous rapids can be found on the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers in the eastern panhandle, most whitewater streams are found in the Alleghenies and their foothills in eastern and southern West Virginia. The rapids here range in difficulty from Class I to the intensities of Class V, requiring you to paddle continually a difficult task if you are not used to it. From late spring through fall, park rangers lead a two-mile, round-trip hike along the Bluestone River. For complete details, contact Pipestem Resort State Park. Clay later fought against the Indians in the Battle of Point Pleasant. Before you visit the park, visit the website to learn about all you can do at Bluestone National Scenic River. Go ahead, do yourself a favor and search for some images on Google of Moncove Lake. This is a relatively easy walking trail that begins beside the pond at the Nature Center, passes through an oak-hickory forest along the park road, and loops back to the Nature Center. The Bluestone River is not thrill seeking, adrenaline frothed whitewater, nor is it a river that is navigable year round. But hurry! Residents of Lilly were forced to move during the mid-1900s when the construction of the Bluestone Dam began. This trail begins along the park road between Park Headquarters and Cottage Number 1, with a 0.3-mile unnamed trail to Turkey Spur. Other trail plans that are being explored include using disused Norfolk Southern railroad lines to create a hiking trail, he added. Recreational kayaks are affordable, stable, easy to get in and out of, and simple to maneuver. Some great spots to try out kayaking in Mercer County include: *Please note that water levels on the Bluestone River are often too low for sufficient paddling, especially in mid-summer. Several visitors have been lucky enough to see and photograph the black bear, deer, and even some blue heron. Regardless of your skill level, West Virginia is filled with kayaking spots that cater to all kayakers alike. Between Parsons and Rowlesburg, the water route is 38 miles long and relatively tranquil with a rapids classification of Class I to Class II. A guidebook lists this a class 1-3 stream, with the recommended gage limits between 4 and 8. Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Your lessons will take place on Pipestem or Bluestone Lake in calm waters. Recreational kayaks are affordable, stable, easy to get in and out of, and simple to maneuver. Check out the New River Gorge kids page for info about our Junior Ranger program and other activities for kids. This place is ideal for all levels of kayakers, as there is plenty of flat water. This moderately difficult trail begins at the junction of the Farley Loop and River Trail in Pipestem Resort State Park. Untamed and majestic, this tranquil lakeside parknear Hinton makes an ideal retreat. The Bluestone River is another gorgeous stream that provides a fantastic opportunity to get away from the busyness of life and go out on a scenic journey. The rugged mountains were once home to several coal mining camps, and some historical artifacts and buildings remain. Reflections at Canyon Rim Offers a wide selection of souvenirs, West Virginia glassware, gifts and souvenirs. The more rugged rivers like the meadow, the Bluestone, and the big sandy creek are some of the rare gems to explore. Pipestem Resort State Park gets its name from the native pipestem or meadowsweet plant. I would like to run the river again sometime, but would prefer more water and a boat good for surfing and play.We miss you Carter.Music in the video is from a cool band: Alvvays, Party Police The sites are on a first come first serve basis. About - Bluestone State Park is a lakeside retreat located in southern West Virginia. The park was built with grants provided by the Area Redevelopment Administration of the U.S. Department of Commerce under the administration of President John F. Kennedy. Over 200 primitive campsites. The museum features memorabilia dating back to the Revolutionary War to present day, all donated by citizens of Summers County. In a calm river, you may not use your paddle frequently, but in whitewater, you'll use it to steer your kayak, brace yourself against rapids, and maneuver through tight passages. Your guides will determine the best river and water craft depending on the water levels. The first 3 miles are moving water ending at a dam. The trail goes through a series of switchbacks for 1.25 miles to the Bluestone River. The Lake offers more than just bird watching as it is the primary habitat for wildlife, fish, and forest-dwelling birds. Learn More. SeaKayakExplorer.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Taxes not included. During Christmas and spring, several of them open for tours, too. Disc golf and miniature golf also is available at the recreation center. Artist says former West Virginians captivated by West Virginia imagery, Storytellers to weave tales at Saturday program in Beckley, Downtown Beckley getting even odder, say fair organizers, Peculiar rock face near Ripley, W.Va., attracting more visitors, HarpersFerryNational Historical Park pilots cashless fee collection, New River Gorge ranked top national park for scenic views, activities, Visitors encouraged to hike lesser-known New River Gorge trails, W.Va. to invest $10 million at Coopers Rock State Forest, WVU earns $8M for rare earth elements extraction facility, W.Va. awards $9.7 million for pedestrian, recreation trails, Rich West Virginia honey benefitting consumers, producers, Applications for Outdoor Heritage Conservation grants due April 28. The trail is best accessed near the aerial tram at the Mountain Creek Lodge. Whether you live in West Virginia or you are browsing the country for great kayaking spots, no matter your skill level, theres a kayaking spot for you! Price per boat rental. One and a half miles from the lodge, it crosses the Canyon Rim Trail. River levels can be obtained by calling 304-466-0156. The 31st annual West Virginia Public Employees Golf Tournament is scheduled for May 8, 2023 at Pipestem Resort State Park. This park encompasses more than 70,000 acres of land along the New River one of the oldest rivers in North America. Tramway Sweets & Treats overlooks the stunning Bluestone Gorge and tramway down to Mountain Creek Lodge. This trail begins behind McKeever Lodge. Request a free copy of our travel guide to start planning your next getaway. It would go through Coopers and Bramwell and link up with communities including Matoaka. At Black Bear, youll find specialty pizzas, as well as a wide selection of craft and local draft beer. Taxes not included. He joined the fire department when he was 18. full list of current hours and recreational activity rates, 3405 Pipestem Dr, Rentals are available daily. The trail then loops around and returns to the parking area. If need be, kayaks can even be rented at the swimming beach. East Lynn Lake; Wayne County Source: Brian M. Powell (user Bitmapped on en.wikipedia) / Wikimedia East Lynn Lake Pipestem also has a driving range, and a nine-hole par 3 short course at the recreation center. From there the river is class II-III with the harder rapids coming at the end. For complete details, contact Pipestem Resort State Park. Sunny. There are a few hazards on this section (see notes and pics on the American WW link below). This easy trail begins at the park road behind Cottage Number 1 and travels down to Long Branch Lake where it joins the Lake Shore Trail. $8/Half HourAvailable at Longbranch Lake. The Bluestone Dining Roomat McKeever Lodge is a full-service restaurant offering breathtaking views of the Bluestone Gorge. Pipestem, Lilly, West Virginia, was one of the first settlements in present day West Virginia. 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