Author: Marsha Watson

It seems that new trails are being conceived, coordinated, built, and funded everywhere we look. The first ten miles of the first phase of the Elk River Trail here in West Virginia were opened at the beginning of July last…

Most of us are probably hunkering down right now — whether because of COVID-19 cases rising or the fact that winter is in sight — but those of us who love the outdoors will be adventuring no matter what. And…

Most state parks in West Virginia are best enjoyed over fall, spring, and summer — but some are best suited to winter climates because of the state’s diverse, breathtaking environments. We’ve already discussed Blackwater Falls and Canaan Valley State Parks…

Autumn is upon us — and that means different things for different people. Most of us will soon be indoors by the fire, trying to avoid the inevitable deep freeze. Others will be gearing up for hunting season. Some will…

Those who are most responsible for processing and providing data on the novel coronavirus outbreak have been under a political hailstorm since the very first case, risking not only their lives, but the jobs as well — and all just…

We realize that our last article was primarily about the benefits of getting outside — and what our legislators were doing to make the natural environment more appealing for younger generations. But that’s on hold. A dangerous pandemic has quickly…

Many legislators and public officials in West Virginia are taking note of how many people are participating in outdoor activities when compared to other historical periods. Although more people can be seen outside walking or running these days, the overall…

Sometimes it can be difficult to imagine balancing the obvious dangers of bad health with the less-defined dangers of what we might actually encounter when we go outside for some exercise. For example, we all know exactly how dangerous heart…

West Virginia is home to some of the most diverse landscapes in all of the United States — but few people realize it unless they live there. Did you know that the largest lake in West Virginia is spread out…

People are exercising much more often than they were just a decade ago. They’re out running and biking in increasing numbers, and we’re glad to see it. But those increasing numbers of pedestrians are also increasing the numbers of car…