Holiday travelers in West Virginia have many opportunities for free outdoor and indoor recreation in state parks. “At Pipestem Resort State Park, we plan and present a variety of events on a weekly basis for our visitors and guests,” said Kim Hawkins, Pipestem program coordinator. “These activities are open to the public and without cost. There are no entrance or parking fees to visit or stay at Pipestem Resort.”
December activities at Pipestem include:
Wog the Golf Courses
Every day from 7 to 8:30 a.m. and from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m., park guests are invited to walk/jog (wog) the golf courses. Pipestem has an 18-hole championship and a Par 3 course. This is an unguided activity and woggers are asked to remain on paved cart paths while they enjoy the sights and sounds of the courses. Pets are welcome; however, we ask that they be leashed and all waste collected.
Run or walk a marked and measured course
Two routes, a 5K and 10K, have been marked on the roadways at Pipestem Resort to assist runners in mileage information. Maps are available at Pipestem’s website http://www.pipestemresort.com under Maps/Locate, Walk/Run 5K/10K Guide.
Bird Walk
Birdwatching is an avid pastime and hobby by many people. A guided Dec. 4 bird walk departs at 10 a.m. from McKeever Lodge. A limited number of binoculars are loaned to individuals participating. The walk will take about an hour.
Bald Eagle Watching
Bald eagle watchers will meet in the lobby of McKeever Lodge at 9:30 a.m. Dec. 6 for a car caravan to Bluestone Lake to observe some of the local bald eagles and other birds. A limited number of binoculars are available for use. Pipestem and area volunteers conduct surveys annually and eagle sightings are frequent throughout the year, particularly in wintry months. The activity lasts about two hours. Caravans are scheduled throughout the winter and posted on www.wvstateparks.com under “At-A-Park.”
Hike
The Lick Hollow Trail Hike will begin on the patio at the Canyon Rim Center Dec. 4 at 2 p.m. This hike passes through the woods into the hollow, across the creek and back up for a view of the Bluestone Canyon. Hikers will follow the ridge behind the Short Course, back across the creek and return to the parking lot. This trail is steep in spots, but well worth the exercise. The hike lasts about 1-1/2 hours and will be led by park naturalist Julie McQuade.
East River Mountain Band annual concert
The 45-member East Mountain Band of Bluefield, West Virginia, will perform its annual concert Sunday, Dec. 7, at 3 p.m. in the McKeever Lodge conference center. Christmas and holiday music will be performed. There is no charge to attend and everyone is welcome.
Nature Center
Pipestem’s Nature Center has open hours daily and features nature videos, craft time, and other family and guest-oriented activities such as Game Nights, Tree Trimming, and Disc Golf.
Learn more about Pipestem Resort State Park, activities, lodge, cabins, hiking, indoor swimming and restaurant, at www.pipestemresort.com or call 304-466-1800.
