Beautiful Gardens. Unique Plants and Wildlife. Discover it all this spring in Almost Heaven

Spring is quickly approaching in the Mountain State, and vibrant colors are making their way back to iconic Almost Heaven landscapes. With warmer weather in the air, it’s the perfect opportunity for you to get a glimpse at some of the famous flora (and, if you’re lucky, fauna) found within Almost Heaven. Plan a trip to some of these iconic locations and enjoy some of the best spring sights West Virginia has to offer.

Core Arboretum

Nestled in Morgantown, the Core Arboretum is full of 91 acres  of old-growth forest and more than three and a half miles of walking trails. The Core Arboretum is the perfect place to get your fill of spring growth in Mountaineer Country. There are several hundred different species of native West Virginian trees, as well as many other species of shrubs and plants throughout the arboretum. Some of the trees within the area are believed to be more than 200 years old. Take stroll along the Monongahela River and see first-hand some of the flora that is older than West Virginia’s statehood.

Ritter Park Rose Garden

One of the most beloved locations in Huntington is the Rose Garden at Ritter Park. The garden, which features more than 3,000 roses, has been voted one of the country’s best rose gardens on several occasions. They’re typically in full-bloom from late-May to mid-June. Take a stroll through the vibrant garden and then hike one of the many trails in Ritter Park for great views of historic downtown Huntington.

Cranberry Glades

The Cranberry Glades, otherwise known as the Glades, can be found in the heart of Pocahontas County. The Glades consist of five different bogs that contain plant life typically found much more north in Canada and other higher-elevation locations. Because of this, the Glades are the southernmost home to much of the plant life found within. The Glades feature a boardwalk that runs a half of a mile alongside one of the bogs as well as a hiking trail that will lead you around several others. Along the way, you also may see many types of birds and deer, as well as beavers and black bears. The Glades were designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1974, and if you’d like to learn more about the history of the area, you can visit the nearby Cranberry Mountain Nature Center.

West Virginia truly is wild and wonderful, and you can experience every bit of it this spring. Take a stroll through some of the most beautiful gardens and forests the state has to offer and discover Almost Heaven for yourself.

What is your favorite hike in the Mountain State?

This post was last updated on March 17, 2022