Posted in West Virginia Nature, Parks & Gardens July 30, 2016 by

This Little Known Natural Oasis Is Hiding In West Virginia… And You’re Going To Love It

West Virginia has no shortage of natural beauty, but sometimes it’s hard to find time to wander in the woods when you’re in a big city like Morgantown. Fortunately, West Virginia University has set aside a special place to get back to nature.

The WVU Core Arboretum is located next to the WVU Coliseum.
WVU Core Arboretum/Facebook
There's a designated parking area by the Coliseum for those who want to walk the trails.
The Arboretum has 3 miles of foot trails that travel through gardens and old growth forests.
WVU Core Arboretum/Facebook
A small amphitheater sits in the woods for a place to hear nature talks, or to just sit and contemplate the natural beauty.
WVU Core Arboretum
It's a great place to see wildlife, like this barred owl.
WVU Core Arboretum/Instagram
The university hosts free wildflower walks in the spring.
WVU Core Arboretum/Facebook
WVU Core Arboretum
WVU Core Arboretum
In the summer you can still see some wildflowers walking the trails on your own.
WVU Core Arboretum/Facebook
In September, the paw paw fruits ripen, and the university has hosted paw paw meals.
WikiMedia Commons/ Agricultural Research Service
The wild paw paw has a taste similar to tropical fruits.
Zebra swallowtails also enjoy the paw paws.
WVU Core Arboretum/Facebook
In October, the native witch hazel trees bloom, making a stunning sight with their unusual flowers.
WVU Core Arboretum
Even in the winter, these trails are a beautiful place to take a break from it all.
WVU Core Arboretum/Facebook

If you’d like to see more beautiful places to walk in West Virginia, take a look at these three incredible journeys that you can take around the state.

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