| |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Parks
& Recreation
Nicholas County is located in the heart of central West Virginia in
the densely forested foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Recreational
opportunities abound year round for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts.
From a leisurely stroll or bike ride down an old railroad turned trail,
to a heart pumping thrill ride down one of America's most famous whitewater
rivers, you can find what you're looking for here. |
 |
Carnifex
Ferry State Park
Carnifex Ferry was the site of a Civil War battle fought on September
10, 1861. It played a vital role in the movement for West Virginia
statehood. Today it is a day-use park with picnic facilities, shelters,
extensive hiking trails, softball, volleyball, horseshoe pits and
scenic overlooks. The Patterson House Civil War Museum is also at
the park. (304) 872-0825 or call 1-800-CALL-WV. |
 |
Cranberry
Tri-Rivers Rail Trail
A new 16.5 mile point-to-point rail trail that begins at the historic
depot in Richwood and follows the Cherry River, the Gauley River and
then crosses over the Cranberry River. (304) 846-2862 |
 |
Summersville
Lake
This is West Virginia's largest body of water. With over 2,800 acres
of water and 60 miles of shoreline there is plenty of room for boating,
swimming, scuba diving, water skiing, fishing and more. When not in
the water you can hike or mountain bike on miles of networked trails
in the Wildlife Management area, or rock climb and rappel on the hundreds
of world class cliffs that border the shores. Campsites are available
near the lake. |
 |
Gauley
River National Recreation Area
The Gauley River is ranked in the top three in the nation and seventh
in the world for whitewater rafting. Clean mountain water thunders
through this rugged canyon forming a dramatic spectacle. Rock climbing,
hiking on rustic trails, fishing and kayaking are area favorites.
A 25 mile section of the Gauley River and a 5.5 mile section of the
Meadow River were added to the preserve with fish and wildlife.
|
 |
Cranberry
Glades Botanical Area
Visit fascinating sphagnum bogs (or muskegs) reminiscent of the Arctic
tundra. Certain plants and animals characteristic of climates farther
north reach their southernmost distribution here. A boardwalk and
interpretive trail make exploration easy. |
 |
Cranberry
Backcountry & Wilderness
Located in the southernmost district of the Monongahela National Forest,
this area is a favorite of fishermen, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts.
The Cranberry River, running through the Cranberry Wilderness Backcountry
rates in the top three of West Virginia's fishing streams and the
top 20 nationwide. The Cranberry Wilderness Backcountry area offers
over 100 miles of hiking trails. Most of them are open to mountain
biking, weekend back-packing trips and horseback riding. Nine camping
shelters are located in this area. |
 |
Highland
Scenic Highway
The only National Scenic Byway in West Virginia, the highway traverses
the mountainous terrain of the Allegheny Highlands and plateau rising
from Richwood's 2,325 feet to over 4,500 feet along the parkway.
It follows State Route 39/55 for 21 miles from Richwood to the Cranberry
Mountain Visitor Center, then turns onto State Route 150 for the
22 mile parkway section. |
|
|
|
|
