Kites, Walks and Mountain Air Greet Visitors to Canaan Valley July 6-8

            DAVIS, W.Va. – Weather predictions for Canaan Valley Resort for the rest of the 4th of July holiday week indicate gentle mountain breezes. What better way to spend vacation time than relaxing poolside, taking in a round or golf, hiking, or flying a kite? “Windfest” returns to Canaan the weekend of July 6-8.

            “Canaan Valley Resort has a lot to offer summer travelers,” said Ken Caplinger, chief of the West Virginia State Parks system. "And Blackwater Falls State Park is a short drive from Canaan. The scenic beauty and facilities at both parks are exceptional."

            Canaan currently offers a $54 room rate on mid-week nights in July and Blackwater Falls has a “cool summer evening” package that knocks 20 percent off mid-week lodge rates for guests staying two or more nights.

Windfest July 6-8

            Wings Over Washington will conduct kite workshops for all ages on Saturday and Sunday July 7 and 8. See jumbo kites that include a gigantic octopus, 80-foot scuba diver, and a 20-foot lobster. Stunt kite flying demonstrations will also be offered. Entertainment this weekend will be provided by the West Virginia Cloggers on July 6 and 7. Guided walks, crafts, and a bonfire along with weekend buffets are scheduled. Windfest lodging package offers overnight accommodations, next day buffet breakfast, unlimited mini-golf rounds, outdoor pool and beech club privileges, inclusive all tax/fees. The rate is $49 per person/per night based on double occupancy. A child 12 and younger, when accompanied by a paying adult, receives the same package inclusions as the adults at no charge. For reservations, call 800-622-4121.

Windfest Weekend Schedule – Friday, July 6

9 a.m. – 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.: Suncatchers Craft at the Nature Center (small fee $2)

10 a.m.: Guided Walk - Things you want to know about Bird Watching - but were afraid to ask. Beginners rejoice! Here is a chance to dabble in the great American pastime. Experienced birders are welcomed to share their knowledge. Meet at the trail head located near the golf clubhouse.

2 p.m.: Guided Walk - Wildflower Detective: What is springing up on the park? We will hike on Deer Run Trail to see what we can see. Meet at the Nature Center For short walk on Deer Run. Easy walking, 1 1/2 hours.

5 p.m. – 10 p.m: Smoke-house BBQ Buffet in the Hickory Dining Room at Canaan Valley Resort.

7 p.m.: Entertainment – West Virginia Cloggers (Outdoor Pavilion) Crowd participation is encouraged.

Windfest Weekend Schedule – Saturday, July 7

10 a.m.: Guided Walk - Nature Detective: Can you identify what you see? How can you learn to enjoy your hikes more? Need ideas for science projects next year? Have any questions of your own? Meet at the Nature Center for a short walk on Deer Run. Easy walking, 1 hr.

11 a.m. and 2 p.m.: Kite Building Workshop - Wings over Washington Kite Club will offer a workshop for children and adults of all ages to learn how to design and build their own kites, and fly them afterwards. Small fee charged.

11 a.m. – 2 p.m.: Outdoor Cookout Lunch served at the Nature Center.

12 p.m. and 3 p.m.: Jumbo Kite Flying and Stunt Kite Demos - Learn how to fly stunt kites, including the enormous 80' Scuba Diver, 20' Lobster, and gigantic Octopus kites.

1 p.m.: Entertainment: West Virginia Cloggers - Nature Center (Crowd participation is encouraged)

5 p.m. – 10 p.m.: Prime Rib Buffet served in the Hickory Dining Room at Canaan Valley Resort.

6 p.m. – 7 p.m.: Entertainment – West Virginia Cloggers: Join in the fun and learn to clog (crowd participation is encouraged).

7 p.m.: Swing Dancing Lessons with Dean Mullins (Outdoor Pavilion) Rate: $5 Single / $8 Couple

8 p.m. – 10 p.m.: Bonfire and Marshmallow Roast - Nature Center.

Windfest Weekend Schedule – Sunday, July 8

10 a.m.: Craft - Create a memento from your trip to Canaan Valley. Meet at the Nature Center (no charge).

11 a.m.: Kite Building Workshop

12 p.m.: Jumbo Kite Flying and Stunt Kite Demos

2 p.m.: Craft - Bull Roarer (small fee $2) Nature Center

Mid-summer Walk Between the Parks – July 14 and August 4, 2012

            Canaan Valley Resort and Blackwater Falls state parks conduct two mid-summer "Walk Between the Parks" for families, groups, and individuals to enjoy outdoor, nature-oriented activities at West Virginia state parks. A walk on July 14 and another on August 4 are leisurely, casual guided eight-mile walks. Everyone must stay in a group. "It isn't a speed walk,” said Melissa Brown, park naturalist.

            A registration fee of $12 for adults and $7 for children ages 6-12 is required. The fee covers shuttle service from Canaan Valley Resort State Park. "We suggest bringing snacks and water for the approximately four-hour walk," Brown said.

            The eight-mile walk from Blackwater Falls State Park to Canaan Valley Resort State Park will begin at the 10 a.m. on Saturday. Pre-registration is recommended using the form online at www.canaanresort.com or by calling the park at 304-866-4121.

            To learn more about Canaan Valley Resort State Park, visit www.canaanresort.com or call 304-866-4121. Blackwater Falls State Park activities and accommodations are posted on www.blackwaterfalls.com or call 304-259-5216.