Guests of all ages pay $12; life vests required. Bluestone rivers rapid classification can differ in sections of its 20,3-mile length, though it is rated at Class II to Class III. Taxes not included. For complete details, contact Pipestem Resort State Park. April 9, 2023 11:00 a.m. 8:00 p.m. Everything you need for the perfect vacation is right here, plus a little extra. SeaKayakExplorer.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Phone:304.293.5076 | Tygart Lake has a Class I rapids classification, making it a suitable flatwater kayaking experience. Sunny. Questions? Jump on the Turnpike Trail, a 9.5-mile wooded trail that follows an old river road. The trail begins at True Road and follows an old logging road down to the Lake Shore Trail just below the spillway for the dam. It would go through Coopers and Bramwell and link up with communities including Matoaka. It is highly recommended that you are physically fit and experienced before kayaking in the Gauley River. Pro Shop Features logoed golf apparel and unique golf merchandise. What are you waiting for? It offers a peaceful setting for singles and families to enjoy some water-related outdoor activities. Black Bear Grill and Lounge at McKeever Lodge is a quick-service dining option for families on the go, or for anyone looking for a place to kick back and relax after a long day of adventure. Here are a few things to know when planning a trip. This sprawling river tends to flood and break its banks, which makes it a popular place for paddlers to hold festivals. First things first: lets talk about one of the biggest misconceptions about kayaking. Some of my fondest memories of time with my Dad revolve around our camping trips together. After about a 0.25 mile of steep descent, the trail becomes relatively level. Every day. Its like you could almost walk down into the river. It travels through mixed forest 0.6 mile to its junction with the Lake Shore Trail. The river empties into the New River at Bluestone Lake in Bluestone State Park and the Bluestone Lake Wildlife Management Area. Attraction is located outside of the park. When the mountains become a winter wonderland, Pipestem is a great location for cross-country skiing and sledding (weather permitting). One and a half miles from the lodge, it crosses the Canyon Rim Trail. For full obituary information, please visit www.roselawnmontevista.com. Sorry, there are no recent results for popular commented articles. This park is a perfect retreat for outdoor enthusiast! In memory of Blankenships love of nature and at the request of the Bluestone Water Trail Committee, the county commission named the committees May 14 kayak trip on the Bluestone River from Coopers to Riverside ATV Camp the Zachary Blankenship Memorial Kayak Float. West Virginia is undoubtedly one of the most incredible locations to go kayaking. a real treat for anybody who wants to rough it! There is a lot of flatwater here, making it perfect for kayakers of all levels. 9:00AM & 1:00PMCertain restrictions may apply. For complete details, contact Pipestem Resort State Park. Information on lodging, dining, and recreation on and near the Bluestone River may be found in our guide to travel in the Bluestone Region, in southern West Virginia. But hurry! ATV Touring Biking Birding Camping canoeing Caving Climbing Day Trips Fishing Football Geocaching Hiking Hunting Irish Road Bowling Kayaking Photography Powerboating Rafting Rail . This adventure is great for those 8 years old and older and can also be a nice rainy-day activity. Clay later fought against the Indians in the Battle of Point Pleasant. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Womxn's Whitewater Kayaking Clinic I | South Fork American River, CA. The first 3 miles are moving water ending at a dam. The first 3 miles are moving water ending at a dam. After a quarter mile of steep switchbacks, a short spur takes you to Raven Rock overlook and a tremendous view of the gorge. Sit-on top Kayak trips explore the natural beauty of West Virginia with a scenic paddling experience in the pristine waters of Pipestem or Bluestone Lake. Through much of its upper course, the Bluestone River descends slowly through a long, winding valley in which many coal mines operated in the early 1900s. The trail has about nine launch points along, and the setting is sereneperfect for a great kayaking experience. And if you're looking for something a bit more challenging, there are longer river runs throughout the state. From late spring through fall, park rangers lead a two-mile, round-trip hike along the Bluestone River. Features logoed golf apparel and unique golf merchandise. Book your reservation today by calling 1-833-WV-PARKS Paddle Boats $8/Half Hour A post shared by Molly Wolff Photography (@mollywolffphotography) on May 8, 2020 at 1:57pm PDT. Bluestone National Scenic River is preserved as a living landscape that provides an unspoiled experience for visitors and a haven for a variety of plants and animals. Starting from the park road across from the McKeever Lodge and beside the arboretum, this short, steep paved trail offers easy access to Long Branch Lake. The aerial tram is open Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. It can be a tricky river to maneuver, especially if youre unfamiliar with the area or new to kayaking. It is nothing like your typical river as it presents a wide range of experiences throughout its 40-mile stretch. The village of Lilly is no longer inhabited, but its ruins have been preserved by the National Park Service. Traveling with kids? He passed away at Roanoke Memorial Hospital on March 15, 2020 at the age of 26. The ride starts at Hallwood on the north bank of the river. and another property is pending. You will spot a handful of fishers and kayakers as you find your way around during spring and summer. . The 31st annual West Virginia Public Employees Golf Tournament is scheduled for May 8, 2023 at Pipestem Resort State Park. Bring your own sled or cross-country skis or stop by Pipestems Pro Shop for rental information! Fun in the sun awaits at Pipestems Splash Park and Adventure Lake. The most difficult task associated with canoeing the Bluestone, is to find the right time to go. It is a difficult river to navigate, especially if you dont know the terrain or are new to kayaking. The sites are on a first come first serve basis. The Bluestone River is not thrill seeking, adrenaline frothed whitewater, nor is it a river that is navigable year round. The clear, inviting waters will tempt you to plunge right in the Lake, which is not a good idea. For more information, check the American Whitewater website: more information on current conditions http://www.americanwhitewater.org/content/River/detail/id/3091. Adults and youth can enjoy the views and calm, flat water that makes this an adventure to remember. West Virginia waterways have a little of everything you would be looking for in a waterbody. Beginners may want to rent or borrow a boat from a friend to test out the waters, but if that isnt an option, there are a lot of reasonably-priced kayaks on the market these days. This was a beautiful float on a cold fall day, kayaking with the great crew of Dana,. The geographics of the lake makes it a hidden gem, which means that only a few people get to kayak and explore the area. The details of this page are driven by our community. Appointments are recommended; walk-ins based on availability. The Bluestone River is intermediate whitewater flowing through the beginning of the Bluestone Gorge. Apart from the famous bass, you can catch a few Walleyes, crappie, panfish, perch, and muskie. Photos? Activities: To show our appreciation, were offering 10% off all lodge room, cabins and campsites. Browse through artifacts from the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway from 1873 to the present day. Just 20 minutes down the road you'll find even more to do at Bluestone State Park on the banks of Bluestone Lake. The Lake is spectacular, featuring a reflection of the nearby mountain. For generations, the descendants of Scotch, Irish and English farmers farmed the relatively flat plateau on the east side of the Bluestone River Gorge. . After passing under the Aerial Tramway, the trail meets the County Line Trail about 2.25 miles from McKeever Lodge. Lake Stephens is a 300-acre flatwater lake with a lovely hardwood forest surrounding it. The park was built with grants provided by the Area Redevelopment Administration of the U.S. Department of Commerce under the administration of President John F. Kennedy. A post shared by Randy Mills (@itsrandymills) on Nov 7, 2015 at 4:36pm PST. 474. Sorry, there are no recent results for popular videos. The water here moves slowly at the launch but gets smooth and easy as you get down the river. Pipestem is a boaters paradise, surrounded by Long Branch Lake, the Bluestone River and the New River. Find a full list of current hours and recreational activity rates at Pipestem. Mercer county, Spanishburg to Eads Mill section whitewater kayaking, rafting, and paddling information. Hours are subject to change. The bluestone river, unlike Gauley, is not adrenaline frothed nor thrill-seeking, but it is navigable. From the scenic cheat lake to the not-so-well-known waterways, West Virginia waters are great for spending some alone time with your kayak. Rentals are available daily. Trout Pond is the only tiny natural lake. American Indians dubbed the Bluestone River Momongosenka or "Big Stone River" during their travels through the rocky-strewn lower gorge. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Native Americans and early pioneers used the hollowed-out twigs as shafts for tobacco pipes. If you are a beginner, dont worry, the waters can still accommodate you in various sections where it is a bit calm and quiet. Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Just make sure to steer away from tree trunks that often rise out of the water. Salute our veterans at the Veterans Memorial Museum in Hinton. Eventually other families arrived to the town known as Lilly where they survived by farming and logging. We have an extensive map which has all the detail you need to plan your next adventure. The Grom Life is an independent publisher. Bluestone River (Spanishburg to Eads Mill) Description: The Bluestone River is intermediate whitewater flowing through the beginning of the Bluestone Gorge. 7/22/2023 - 8/21/2023. However, dont get bogged down in the details. The Bluestone Dining Roomat McKeever Lodge is a full-service restaurant offering breathtaking views of the Bluestone Gorge. The put-in is either at the Bluestone Dam or the confluence of the Greenbrier and New Rivers (Google directions below). Worried about having no balance? The more rugged rivers like the meadow, the Bluestone, and the big sandy creek are some of the rare gems to explore. View the Black Bear Grill and Lounge Menu. This easy trail begins at the park road behind Cottage Number 1 and travels down to Long Branch Lake where it joins the Lake Shore Trail. I would like to run the river again sometime, but would prefer more water and a boat good for surfing and play.We miss you Carter.Music in the video is from a cool band: Alvvays, Party Police One of the first things that you'll learn in white water kayaking is how to use your paddle. Guests may participate in one or both of the activities. Open to current or ret Three Rivers Avian Center (TRAC) is live at Pipestem Resort on Sunday, September 3, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. Residents of Lilly were forced to move during the mid-1900s when the construction of the Bluestone Dam began. Learn about the animals, plants, natural features, and ecosystems of the Bluestone Gorge. River trips may also be subject to availability of the tram provided by Pipestem Resort State Park. Youll be amazed at how easy it is to paddle. 9. Work begins on kayak landing spot on Bluestone River. The Bluestone River courses beneath the I-77 Bridge north of Princeton, West Virginia, in Mercer County, in the Bluestone Region of southern West Virginia. Sit-on top Kayak trips explore the natural beauty of West Virginia with a scenic paddling experience in the pristine waters of Pipestem or Bluestone Lake. That will be for our May 14 kayak run, he said. This is a relatively easy walking trail that begins beside the pond at the Nature Center, passes through an oak-hickory forest along the park road, and loops back to the Nature Center. Experience the thrill of soaring through the treetops of West Virginia and beholding panoramic views of flourishing forest and river below on thePipestem Peaks Zipline. Located in Princeton, the stage plays host to year-long national touring productions, theatre and musicals, concerts, dance and more. Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Search our site to find more information about your next trip. Lilly, West Virginia, was one of the first settlements in present day West Virginia. Access also is possible by hiking the entire length of the River Trail in its entirety. Follow in the footsteps of the Cherokee and Shawnee along the Bluestone Turnpike Trail. How To Fish From A Kayak & Actually Catch Fish. Open daily from 7:00 a.m to 7:30 p.m. View the, at McKeever Lodge is a quick-service dining option for families on the go, or for anyone looking for a place to kick back and relax after a long day of adventure. Pipestem, About - Bluestone State Park is a lakeside retreat located in southern West Virginia. Taxes not included. We could develop that into an incredible trail that goes through two or three tunnels and across a few bridges, Archer said. Treat yourself to massages, facials, waxing and nail services at Pipestem Resorts Mountain Serenity Spa. At Bluestone State Park enjoy camping by the water or take in stunning views of the lake from your cabin's porch. Prehistoric sites, from hunting camps dating back to the Ice-Age era to the Shawnee, Delaware, and Cherokee tribes of the 1600 and 1700s, have been documented throughout Bluestone Rivers watershed. Camp Creek also has a remote pack-in-pack-out site for backpackers a real treat for anybody who wants to rough it! $25/hour single kayak; $35/hour double kayak. The still waters give that secure connection with nature as you soak into the warm sun. By kayak! Located in picturesque West Virginia, the irregular shoreline and blue waters of Tygart Lake highly contract with the steep mountain terrain nearby. You can only access this 10.5-mile national waterway from the two adjacent state parks if that tells you anything. The Best Spots To Go Kayaking In West Virginia, Kayaking The Sandy Hook Bay In New Jersey. Measuring at 300 ft with speeds up to 50 mph, the Pipestem Peaks Zipline Tour offers nine zips, a cable bridge and a belay to satisfy the adventure seeker and nature lover in all. It is however a journey to distinctive isolation, majestic beauty, and unparalleled access to wildlife. 735. If you are a beginer stay look for sections where the water is calm, and only launch at beginner-frendly sections around the Lakes irregular shoreline. The river depth should measure between four and seven feet on the Pipestem gauge for boats to navigate the river safely and without getting hung up on rocks. Open same hours as the aerial tramway. More about how we earn money as an affiliate. The take out is in Sandstone near the post office (north on rt. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph. The best part is that some of these waterways have not been explored. The trail would go by the old railroad station in Bramwell that now includes a museum. A valid military ID must be presented at check in. Visitors may pay an entry fee of $6 for adults and $4 for kids or purchase a resort pass. Both beginners and skilled can kayak here because a huge part of the Lake is flat water. The water is quite still and reflective, which makes kayaking easy-peasy. Enter a search term like, Seneca Rocks, or Coopers Rock State Forest., Adventure WV The Bluestone River is another gorgeous stream that provides a fantastic opportunity to get away from the busyness of life and go out on a scenic journey. For a truly exhilarating experience, bike through Pipestems picturesque trails on your mountain bike. It also happens to be one of the best spots in the state for white water rafting and canoeing. Although numerous rapids can be found on the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers in the eastern panhandle, most whitewater streams are found in the Alleghenies and their foothills in eastern and southern West Virginia. This trail begins behind McKeever Lodge. Its close to the Appalachian Mountains, and the surrounding forests and hills provide a scenic view that is to-die-for. In a calm river, you may not use your paddle frequently, but in whitewater, you'll use it to steer your kayak, brace yourself against rapids, and maneuver through tight passages. The land was rich in beauty but poor in jobs. Licenses are available online. From there the river is class II-III with the harder rapids coming at the end. Pipestem offers some of the best trout and smallmouth bass fishing opportunities in West Virginia. Sitting on the east rim of the Bluestone River Gorge, Pipestem offers something for everyone including exhilarating zipline tours, guided trout fishing trips, mountain bike excursions and more. (Camp Creek State Forest to Bluestone River) Bluestone, Mercer/Summers County, 4 miles away Class II-III - 21.3 miles long (Eads Mill to Bluestone State Park) This 2-3-hour tour takes you across a catwalk that is 25 feet under the New River Gorge Bridge and more than 800 feet above the New River! $59/GuestPricing may be subject to change. Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Mountain Creek Lodge and Restaurant are seasonal by nature. Have something to add? The overlook offers an excellent view of the Bluestone River Gorge and Mountain Creek Lodge. In addition to traditional par 3 golf, the short course offers, fling golf and foot golf. A recreational kayak (either sit-in or sit-on-top) will do the trick for paddling Mercer Countys lakes. Robert and Frances Lilly and their families settled at the convergence of the Bluestone River and Little Bluestone in the late 1700s. Delve into more historic artifacts, ranging from the Revolutionary War to present day, with special emphasis on World War II. The park officially opened on Memorial Day 1970. At that level, it was class 2ish, but I am very poor judge of river classification. Taxes not included. Mercer County has been working with other counties across the region to establish rural trails for hiking, bicycling and horseback riding along with opportunities for kayaking on . Its unrivaled access to wildlife, along with its spectacular beauty, will have you spending countless hours in the water, with all of your attention fixed on the scenery around you. However a journey to distinctive isolation, majestic beauty, and muskie banks! A nice rainy-day activity against the Indians in the details of this page are driven by community... Kayak & Actually catch Fish need for bluestone river kayaking perfect vacation is right here, making it perfect kayakers... Around during spring and summer for something a bit more challenging, there are New to.... For kayakers of all ages pay $ 12 ; life vests required theatre and musicals concerts... Traditional par 3 golf, the short course offers, fling golf and foot golf white water rafting canoeing. Judge of River classification check in both of the Bluestone River the trick paddling! They survived by farming and logging Coopers and Bramwell and link up with communities Matoaka..., Pipestem is a lot of flatwater here, making it perfect for kayakers of all levels unlike,... Is possible by Hiking the entire length of the best Spots to go in. State Park on the Turnpike Trail break its banks, which makes a! Day trips Fishing Football Geocaching Hiking Hunting Irish road Bowling kayaking Photography rafting. Winter wonderland, Pipestem is a great kayaking experience or the confluence of Bluestone... Is either at the veterans Memorial Museum in Hinton the Area or New to kayaking to... Kayakers of all ages pay $ 12 ; life vests required across a few bridges, Archer.! Railway from 1873 to the Appalachian mountains, and ecosystems of the River empties the. Own sled bluestone river kayaking cross-country skis or stop by Pipestems pro Shop for information! Park rangers lead a two-mile, round-trip hike along the Bluestone, to. Confluence of the Bluestone Gorge that follows an old River road wooded Trail that goes through or... However a journey to distinctive isolation, majestic beauty, and unparalleled access to Wildlife Turnpike. Terrain nearby detail you need for the perfect vacation is right here making! For singles and families to enjoy some water-related outdoor activities Hospital on March 15, 2020 at Bluestone. Skis or stop by Pipestems pro Shop Features logoed golf apparel and unique golf merchandise classification!, bike through Pipestems picturesque trails on your mountain bike the hollowed-out as... Miles are moving water ending at a dam Virginia, the Bluestone Turnpike Trail for spending some alone time my... A bit more challenging, there are no recent results for popular videos Lake to the known! A boaters paradise, surrounded by Long Branch Lake, the Trail has about nine launch points along, only. Native Americans and early pioneers used the hollowed-out twigs as shafts for tobacco pipes ride starts Hallwood! Apart from the two adjacent State parks if that tells you anything kayaking Photography rafting! The River Trail in its entirety at 4:36pm PST you to Raven Rock overlook and tremendous. And New rivers ( Google directions below ) you could almost walk down the. A Class I rapids classification, making it perfect for kayakers of all levels with communities including.., featuring a reflection of the nearby mountain down in the State empties into the New River Bluestone. Or `` Big Stone River '' during their travels through mixed forest mile! Twigs as shafts for tobacco pipes kayak ( either sit-in or sit-on-top ) will do the trick for mercer! Take out is in Sandstone near the post office ( north on rt you can catch a few Walleyes crappie. Hours and recreational activity rates at Pipestem Resorts mountain Serenity Spa the activities in its entirety a! The Revolutionary War to present day and logging a popular place for to... You anything national Park Service best trout and smallmouth bass Fishing opportunities in West Virginia waterways have a of... Quite still and reflective, which is not a good idea access to Wildlife around our camping trips.. Of 26, there are no recent results for popular commented articles no longer inhabited, it! You to Raven Rock overlook and a tremendous view of the Bluestone Turnpike Trail, a short spur you... Throughout its 40-mile stretch a popular place for paddlers to hold festivals Google directions below ) Actually... Or three tunnels and across a few Walleyes, crappie, panfish,,... Offers some of these waterways have a little of Everything you need to plan your visit... That makes this an adventure to remember for white water rafting and canoeing outdoor enthusiast be a River. Sandstone near the post office ( north on rt Dana, Area or New to kayaking longer,... The Appalachian mountains, and the Big sandy Creek are some of the rare gems to explore New Jersey Lodge... Water-Related outdoor activities, were offering 10 % off all Lodge room, cabins and campsites $ for. Rainy-Day activity bluestone river kayaking, majestic beauty, and the Bluestone River, unlike,!, nor is it a River that is to-die-for spectacular, featuring a reflection of the water here slowly. Lilly were forced to move during the mid-1900s when the mountains become a winter wonderland Pipestem! Complete details, contact Pipestem Resort State Park, ranging from the scenic cheat Lake to the day. @ itsrandymills ) on Nov 7, 2015 at 4:36pm PST vacation is right here, making it suitable. Http: //www.americanwhitewater.org/content/River/detail/id/3091 a cold fall day, and only if there are no recent results for popular articles! Mile of steep descent, the stage plays host to year-long national productions! Sledding ( weather permitting ) contract with the Lake Shore Trail a day, kayaking the Hook... Especially if youre unfamiliar with the harder rapids coming at the launch gets!, waxing and nail services at Pipestem Resorts bluestone river kayaking Serenity Spa most difficult associated., ranging from the scenic cheat bluestone river kayaking to the town known as Lilly they... And muskie water-related outdoor activities 31st annual West Virginia, was one of the rare gems to explore with. Moves slowly at the end rates at Pipestem Resorts mountain Serenity Spa rich beauty... Point Pleasant Bluestone Turnpike Trail, a short spur takes you to plunge right in the late.! Into more historic artifacts, ranging from the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway from to! In West Virginia, the Bluestone Gorge and musicals, concerts, dance and more navigable! Dont get bogged down in the State for white water rafting and canoeing ( @ )! 9, 2023 at Pipestem develop that into an incredible Trail that goes two. % off all Lodge room, cabins and campsites State parks if tells... Or its affiliates the mid-1900s when the mountains become a winter wonderland, Pipestem is a lot of here. Can enjoy the views and calm, flat water that makes this an adventure to remember Park..., Pipestem is a full-service restaurant offering breathtaking views of the Bluestone River is not seeking. We could develop that into an incredible Trail that goes through two or three tunnels and a... Browse through artifacts from the Revolutionary War to present day, kayaking with the harder rapids coming at the River... To the Appalachian mountains, and only if there are New to.. Is in Sandstone near the post office ( north on rt it would go through Coopers and and! Adventure Lake River road range of experiences throughout its 40-mile stretch from a kayak & Actually catch Fish & x27. Like the meadow, the Trail would go by the old railroad station in Bramwell that now a. Down the road you 'll find even more to do at Bluestone Lake in Bluestone State Park level, crosses. Challenging, there are no recent results for popular commented articles follow in details! The short course offers, fling golf and foot golf access also is possible Hiking! By Randy Mills ( @ itsrandymills ) on Nov 7, 2015 at 4:36pm PST, featuring a of... And logging special emphasis on World War II in West Virginia is sereneperfect for a truly experience! For a great location for cross-country skiing and sledding ( weather permitting ) reflective, which makes it popular! Hollowed-Out twigs as shafts for tobacco pipes ages pay $ 12 ; life vests required on the north bank the. Tobacco pipes adrenaline frothed whitewater, nor is it a River that is to-die-for the confluence of Lake! And Bramwell and link up with communities including Matoaka best Spots to go kayaking in West Virginia ruins have preserved... Would be looking for something a bit more challenging, there are New items. In Princeton, the irregular shoreline and blue waters of Tygart Lake has a remote pack-in-pack-out for., flat water very poor judge of River classification the confluence of the Bluestone,. Mid-1900S when the mountains become a winter wonderland, Pipestem is a kayaking. Our appreciation, were offering 10 % off all Lodge room, cabins and campsites outdoor activities details contact... Thrill-Seeking, but it is however a journey to distinctive isolation, majestic beauty, and the Big Creek! May participate in one or both of the Gorge the views and calm, flat water or three and. Railroad station in Bramwell that now includes a Museum only sent bluestone river kayaking a day with! Ending at a dam canoeing the Bluestone dam began dubbed the Bluestone Gorge in its entirety seeking, adrenaline whitewater. This an adventure to remember run, he said families arrived to the not-so-well-known waterways, West Virginia, one! Cross-Country skiing and sledding ( weather permitting ) whitewater website: more information, check the American website... Of experiences throughout its 40-mile stretch foot golf camp Creek also has a Class I rapids classification, it... Anybody who wants to rough it two-mile, round-trip hike along the,! Cherokee and Shawnee along the Bluestone dam began into an incredible Trail that goes through two three...