Sunday, October 28, 2007

The Mountain State

The Mountain State: This nickname refers to the rugged terrain of the scenic Allegheny Mountains that cross the state. Locals often claim that if the many mountains and hills of West Virginia were somehow flattened out, the state would be larger than the state of Texas. May be true. Topography experts have concluded that if West Virginia were made flat it would assume, almost exactly, the shape of the "tongue and lips" logo used by legendary rock 'n' roll band the Rolling Stones.

With the highest mean altitude east of the Mississippi River, the "Mountain State" is also the state with the largest single natural scenic and outdoor recreational area in the eastern United States; the Allegheny Highlands. Eighty percent of the state is forested with over 110,000 square miles of hardwood forest, wind swept mountains and beautiful mountain views.

The state motto is "Montani Semper Liberi"- Mountaineers Always Free!

Tucked away among the hills and valleys of West Virginia are uncrowded trails, cascading streams, and much more. From state parks to national parks and national forests, West Virginia has plenty of outdoor activities for everyone. There are a wealth of outdoor recreation sites, from the 1,000 foot high Seneca Rocks and Spruce Knob, the state's highest point, at 4,862 feet of elevation, to the stunning beauty of Dolly Sods Wilderness Area to the 917,369 acres of the magnificent Monongahela National Forest.

This blog will go deep into " The Mountain State" and look at and discuss some of the most wonderful hiking and biking trails this country has to offer.

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