Joe Manchin III, Governor

Frank Jezioro, Director

News Release : April 5, 2006

Hoy Murphy , Public Information Officer (304) 558-3381 hoymurphy@wvdnr.gov

Contact: Carol Stewart, Parks and Recreation Section (304) 558-2764 parks@westvirginia.com

Hiking West Virginia Program

  Discover miles of hiking trails at West Virginia state parks, forests and wildlife management areas in the Hiking West Virginia Program. As a member, you may discover the beauty of nature, experience interpretive hikes and make new friends at special event hikes. Hiking also has many benefits such as heart disease prevention, weight loss, decreasing cholesterol levels and improving arthritis, osteoporosis and overall mental health.

  This program is a great opportunity to participate and accumulate mileage while enjoying nature and all the benefits of hiking. Submit your form with a one-time registration fee of $10 per person to become a member. Upon reaching each mileage plateau and sending your mileage log to Parks and Recreation for review, you will be eligible to receive a reward and continue on to the next plateau. All mileage must be accumulated on hiking trails in West Virginia 's state parks and forests. Come and explore nature at its best.

  For more information call 1-800-CALL WVA or visit our web site at www.wvstateparks.com .

**DNR**