We’re on the heels of one of the hottest Septembers on record. With unseasonably warm temperatures still in the forecast, we’re all looking for a few good places to cool off. Here’s some favorites around the state.
One of the only swimming pools open year-round in the Mountain State is Split Rock Pools at Snowshoe Mountain. Come for the foliage and stay for super fun family time splashing down at the outdoor—heated—and indoor pool that is free for Snowshoe guests and to children ages 6 and under. Other guests may access Split Rock Pools for $15, (call 877.441.4386).
Located 11 miles south of Wayne, West Virginia, the 1,005-acre East Lynn Lake keeps its swimming beach open until the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which manages the property, drops it to winter pool, (call 304.849.2355).
Want to cool on the wild side? The fall release season of the world-famous Gauley River continues Friday through Monday, October 4-7, as well as October 12-13, October 19 (Bridge Day) and October 20, the last day of 2019 commercial rafting on the Gauley, which was home to the 2018 U.S. Whitewater Championships. Take a trip on the Upper Gauley with such heart-pounding rapids as Insignificant, Pillow Rock, Lost Paddle, Iron Ring and the largest drop on the river, Sweets Falls, or take the slightly less wild Lower Gauley trip. Both are for ages 16 and up who want an amazing adventure. Go online at https://wvtourism.com/gauley/
The hot weather has extended the season of The Bavarian Inn’s unique Infinity 101 Pool and Bar. Enjoy a unique, cascading pool that dangles 101 feet above the Potomac River edge. Sit back, relax, and take in the view as the river winds its way through the valley towards DC and the Chesapeake Bay. There’s also a pool side bar with cocktails and appetizers. The pools open through Sunday, October 6.
From noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, October 6, head over to Maple Lake with your kayak, standup paddleboard (SUP) or even a make-it-yourself cardboard boat for a day of racing during the Live United Regatta sponsored by the Harrison County United Way. Register at www.unitedwayhcwv.org and review the rules/waiver. Sailors (of all ages) race to see who has the fastest and classiest cardboard boat, kayak, and paddleboard, (call 304-624-6337).
Photographed by Nikki Bowman Mills
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