Tag: Natural Wonders

Exploring the Beauty of West Virginia: Landmarks, Activities, and Natural Wonders

When people think of stunning destinations in the South, images of Spanish moss hanging from ancient oak trees in Georgia, the colorful historic homes of Charleston, the sweeping mountain landscapes of the Smokies, or the white sand beaches along the Gulf Coast often come to mind. However, the entire state of West Virginia deserves just as much recognition for its breathtaking scenery, charming towns, and rich history. With rugged mountain landscapes, picturesque rivers, and a wealth of outdoor adventures, West Virginia is a must-visit destination, especially when you’re supplied with this travel guide from Southern Living.

Spanning over 70,000 acres, the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is one of West Virginia’s crown jewels. The park follows the path of the New River, one of the oldest rivers in North America, carving a deep and dramatic gorge through the Appalachian Mountains. This area is an adventurer’s paradise, offering world-class whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and kayaking. Hikers will find an abundance of trails leading to scenic overlooks, including the breathtaking view from the Endless Wall Trail. Whether exploring the river or trekking through the dense forests, visitors will be rewarded with unforgettable vistas.

Harpers Ferry is well known for its historical significance, having played a crucial role in the Civil War and hosting abolitionist John Brown’s famous raid. However, it’s the natural beauty of this town that often leaves the biggest impression. Situated at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, the landscape is dotted with rolling hills, towering cliffs, and scenic trails. One of the most popular hikes leads to Jefferson Rock, where Thomas Jefferson once remarked that the view was “perhaps one of the most stupendous scenes in nature.”

Summersville Lake, the largest in West Virginia, is famous for having some of the clearest waters in the state. Covering 2,700 acres, it offers an array of water activities, from boating and kayaking to snorkeling and scuba diving. The lake’s stunning rock formations and surrounding cliffs make it an excellent spot for rock climbing, while its peaceful coves provide the perfect escape for those looking to relax and soak in the scenery.

For panoramic views that stretch for miles, Coopers Rock State Forest is a must-visit. Located near Morgantown, this forest is home to one of the most popular overlooks in the state. From the Coopers Rock Overlook, visitors can take in sweeping views of the Cheat River Canyon below.

Just outside of Charleston, Kanawha State Forest is a sprawling 9,300-acre retreat known for its wildflowers, birdwatching, and vibrant fall foliage. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the park’s extensive trail system by foot, mountain bike, or horseback. The forest also features a shooting range and several camping areas for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. No matter the season, the landscape offers striking beauty, from lush green canopies in the summer to fiery autumn colors in the fall.

West Virginia is home to 19 picturesque covered bridges, and one of the most charming is the Herns Mill Covered Bridge in Lewisburg. Dating back to 1884, this historic bridge still stands today thanks to careful restoration efforts. Driving through or walking along the bridge offers a nostalgic glimpse into the past and makes for a picturesque photo opportunity.

While West Virginia is home to many waterfalls, Albert Falls is one of the most picturesque. Located on the Blackwater River in the town of Thomas, this waterfall captivates visitors with its natural beauty. Depending on the season, the water can take on a mesmerizing turquoise hue, making it an especially striking sight during the warmer months. A peaceful trail leads to the falls, allowing visitors to enjoy the soothing sound of cascading water and the surrounding forest’s tranquility.

West Virginia is a state filled with rugged landscapes, hidden gems, and endless opportunities for adventure. Whether exploring its mountain trails, kayaking on its pristine waters, or soaking in its rich history, there is something for every traveler to discover in the Mountain State.

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Natural Wonders of Louisiana

Branching out of the typical boundaries of famous Louisiana cities is a great way to familiarize yourself with the oft-forgotten, yet unforgettable aspects and natural wonders of Louisiana- thanks to a helpful article from Treehugger.

While our state is rightly famous for its culture, music, and cuisine, most commonly intersecting and resulting in New Orleans and Mardi Gras holding the number 1 spot on quintessential Louisiana locations lists, you’d be doing a great disservice to yourself by not exploring beyond the city limits.

Atchafalaya River Basin

Squeezed roughly between Baton Rouge and Lafayette is the country’s largest wetland and swamp, comprising a whopping 260,000 acres of cypress-tupelo swamps, bayous, marshland and open water. To experience this remarkable,  sweeping wetland ecosystem of south-central Louisiana,  visit the Atchafalaya Wildlife Refuge by traversing the second-longest bridge in the country — the 18.2-mile-long Atchafalaya Basin Bridge.

Cypress Island Preserve

This picturesque preserve is known for its thriving rookery as it protects 9,500 acres of cypress-tupelo swamp and bottomland hardwood forest just outside the city of Lafayette. It’s not uncommon to encounter a variety of wading birds, including blue herons, roseate spoonbills, cormorants and a variety of egret species while hiking the preserve’s levee and boardwalk trails. Although the preserve is open year-round, plan to visit the rookery between March and June, which is the peak gathering season for these magnificent avians.

Pass-a-Loutre

Set off for adventure with this 66,000-acre wetland that is located just outside of New Orleans in Plaquemines Parish, as it is only accessible by 10-mile boat ride. Pass-a-Loutre is an exceptionally scenic place for all kinds of activities, including both freshwater and saltwater fishing, crabbing, camping and even house-boating. Besides its scenic marshlands, man made canals, natural bayous and channels.

Kisatchie National Forest

Despite being Louisiana’s only national forrest, Kisatchie packs a punch amidst the state’s vast stretches of swampland. Originally designated by President Herbert Hoover in 1930, this beautiful 604,000-acre stretch of woodlands is filled with a combination of longleaf pines and bottomland hardwoods. The forest is home for many animals, the rarest of which include the Louisiana black bear, the red-cockaded woodpecker and the Louisiana pine snake; additionally, the area offers a variety of recreational activities, which include camping, horseback riding, boating, fishing, mountain biking, swimming and more.

Breton Wildlife Refuge

Breton Island is one of the oldest wildlife refuges in the country , having been established by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1904. Roosevelt was prompted to take this action after learning of the ongoing destruction of the island’s birds, nests and eggs. More than 100 years later, the island has transformed into a thriving, low-impact bird watching and fishing destination.

Ouachita River

Originating in Arkansas and running 605 miles south into Louisiana, this is the 25th longest river in the country, which is named for the indigenous Ouachita tribe. While it’s mostly utilized for commercial purposes today, certain parts of the river are popular hunting and fishing areas.

For more Louisiana related articles and to learn about other natural wonders of our great state, click here.