Happy Veterans Day! To all those who have bravely served our country - THANK YOU! Today, I am sharing a few pictures from the trip we took last month to West Virginia. My husband was born and raised in WV so the state always has a special place in his heart. We couldn't take any big trips this year so a weekend getaway is the next best thing. These short trips help us relax, unwind and get away from it all. A few weeks ago, the kids had an extra day off from school so we decided to make it a long weekend and took a road trip to see the dazzling colors of the Mountain State's Fall foliage. I did a little bit of research and decided to checkout these points of interest:
1.
New River Gorge Bridge: This was our first stop. From the parking lot, you take a walk down to the overlook to get the best view of the bridge (about 150 steps). The bridge is impressive and of course, the view is breathtaking. Did you know every year on the 3rd Saturday in October, jumpers from around the world gather at the bridge to fling themselves from the top and parachute an impressive 876 feet to the bottom of the gorge? The event was cancelled this year due to the pandemic but we might come back one day to experience the event.
2.
Babcock State Park: From there, we drove to Babcock State Park. The park is about 20 miles North of the bridge. This is a beautiful state park with secluded cabins to stay in and amazing scenery. Cabins are fully booked for that weekend but it would be really cool to stay there. The park is picturesque, quiet and very tranquil. The Glade Creek Grist Mill during the Fall foliage looks like something straight out of a painting.
3.
Potomac Eagle Scenic Train Ride: The next day, we headed to the Potomac Eagle train station for a scenic ride. The train follows along the Potomac River where American Bald Eagles nest and cows and deer graze. The ride was narrated live and it stopped a few places for the passengers to catch wildlife or take pictures of particularly beautiful views of the river. Food can be purchased on the train. This is a great family excursion if you have young kids. We all enjoyed the ride.
4.
Coopers Rock State Forest: On the last day, we decided to check out Cooper's Rock State Forest located about 13 miles from Morgantown, WV. This is a place of outstanding beauty and natural wonder. The lookout is a short walk from the parking lot but the park has several different trails to suit how much time you have. The view is a spectacular panoramic view of the mountains, river, and city from afar. For a scenic and quick view of some of West Virginia's truly charming landscapes, Coopers Rock has a perfect viewpoint which is worth stopping at.
Over the years, I learn to appreciate the great outdoors. Being outdoors can do wonders for your mental health and can fill your body and mind with a feeling of well-being (especially during the pandemic). Even though it was a quick trip, it was exactly what our family needed. I truly enjoyed spending quality time with my people.
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