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Friday, June 9, 2006
Gov. Manchin hits the adventure trail
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The geology of West Virginia is fascinating. The state has massive reserves of natural gas and coal, which draw geologists from around the world. But for caving enthusiasts, this state is a destination for more than its energy potential. Many regions of the Eastern mountains and Southeastern mountains of West Virginia sit on top of massive limestone formations and networks of cave systems with hundreds of miles of charted passages. Experienced cavers with permission from landowners crawl deep underneath the rolling hills and farmland -- and sometimes even towns!
But you don't have to be an experienced caver to explore West Virginia's spectacular caverns. There are at least four commercial caves in West Virginia that offer guided tours for casual observers. Cavern operators and outfitters offer adventure-level caving expeditions for those who want to don spelunking equipment and headlamps for an unforgettable vacation experience.
Gov. Manchin joins students from Valley High School in Wetzel County to head underground on one of West Virginia's famous cavern tours. Check out the bubbling artesian well and spectacular stalactite formations.
Smokehole Caverns
www.smokehole.com
Organ Cave
www.organcave.com
Seneca Caverns
www.senecacaverns.com
Lost World Caverns
www.lostworldcaverns.com
Of all the East Coast states, there's no doubt West Virginia has the largest variety of whitewater rivers and paddling adventures available. Don't be fooled by summer heat -- there's plenty of water and excitement on West Virginia's rivers this time of year. It may be the best time to try rafting for the first time or to renew your adventuresome spirit on a class V rapid. Cool and refreshing -- it's a great way to beat the heat and forget your troubles. Once you're on the river, nothing else matters. There's only you and the paddle.
Paddling adventures may be found in about every corner of the state, from the playful and historic Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers in the Eastern Panhandle, to the raging Cheat Canyon and kid-friendly Cheat Narrows, to the world-famous New and Gauley rivers in southern West Virginia.
Gov. Manchin gets a history lesson and a thrilling ride on a lower New River whitewater rafting adventure -- America's Best Whitewater. Join him as he paddles below the nation's second-highest bridge and celebrates the legacy of the founders of West Virginia's whitewater industry.
West Virginia Professional River Outfitters
www.americasbestwhitewater.com
Wildwater Expeditions
West Virginia Division of Tourism Rafting Information
New River Convention and Visitors Bureau
Southern West Virginia Convention and Visitors Bureau
New River Gorge National River
After a day of outdoor recreation and adventure, there's perhaps nothing as rewarding a enjoying a great meal and a comfy porch swing at a quaint inn or lodge. West Virginia offers a variety of lodging options to vacationers, from top-notch resorts to rustic cabins that are sure to fit any budget and taste.
Gov. Manchin settles down at a historic West Virginia bed and breakfast after a day of adventure, and hopes he can get permission from the First Lady, Gayle Manchin, to extend his vacation a little longer.
Historic White Horse B&B
Mountainstate Association of Bed and Breakfasts
www.americasbestwhitewater.com
West Virginia Lodging Options
West Virginia Governor's Office
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