West Virginia may be a land-locked state but that doesn’t mean we don’t have boardwalks! A few weeks ago, we featured the incredible Beartown Boardwalk that leads straight through a mountain forest, today’s spotlighted trail leads across a beautiful wetland. The Freeland Boardwalk Trail is a short, accessible path that everyone can and should explore.
The diverse wetlands at the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge in Davis cover 8,500 acres carpeting the valley floor. A walk down the Freeland Boardwalk Trail gives you a little taste of the immense beauty of this preserved area.
Facebook/Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge
Take an easy stroll on the short 0.4-mile trail. Accessible to everyone, the views of the Canaan Valley are breathtaking as you make your way along the wooden path.
Facebook/Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge
This area is the largest wetlands complex in the Mountain State. There are bogs, wet meadows, shrub swamps, and other wetland types creating a patchwork across the valley.
Google Images/Alex Tucker
Meander along and you’ll notice it may seem cooler here than other parts of the state. Summer and fall temperatures usually don’t go above 90 degrees making for a pleasant outing year-round.
Google Images/Peter Moreno
The boardwalk trail skirts the edge of a beaver pond and winds past a babbling spring.
Facebook/Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge
The views are some of the most serene around. As you walk over the wetlands, be sure to soak in all of the amazing scenery along the way.
Google Images/Peter Moreno
The trail has a wider viewing platform at the end and is the perfect spot to take a break or some photos.
Facebook/Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge
Don’t forget to keep your eyes open for the local wildlife. From birds to butterflies, the valley is home to an incredible ecosystem of plants and animals.
Facebook/Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge
The Freedman Boardwalk Trail is a hike for all seasons. With an ever-changing landscape, this is one trail you’ll want to walk again and again.
Facebook/Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge The refuge is open daily to visitors from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset. Learn more about the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge by visiting the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service website or the refuge Facebook page. Address: 6263 Appalachian Highway, Davis, WV 26260
Have you ever walked the Freeland Boardwalk Trail? Share your experiences and photos in the comments section below or in our West Virginia Nature Lovers Group on Facebook.
Facebook/Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge
Google Images/Alex Tucker
Google Images/Peter Moreno
The refuge is open daily to visitors from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset. Learn more about the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge by visiting the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service website or the refuge Facebook page. Address: 6263 Appalachian Highway, Davis, WV 26260
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