If you are in the mood for some peace and tranquility, a walk by a river will help remove you from the mundane world. West Virginia is known for having the Mighty Ohio as its western border, so if you are in Huntington, a walk by the river front will do you good.
Harris Riverfront Park in Huntington lies on both the border of the city and the state. This charming, peaceful park has a way of removing you from the world to enjoy the beauty of nature.
The Ohio River is home to many species of animals, from beavers to a large variety of fish. However, it is the ducks and geese that you will encounter most often.
They gather along the shore by the dozens, and you will find them especially friendly if you bring a loaf of bread with you. A few scraps on the ground, and they will gather at your feet - 2 dozen or more - just to get a little nibble.
After the you run out of bread (or the ducks lose interest in you), a stroll along the path will provide many things to enjoy. There are lush patches of flowers, and several signs about the ecology of the area. These are fascinating if you are interested in viewing the local wildlife - at least the kind that does not care if you have bread.
The local amphitheater is great place to stop and relax. It often serves as seating at events with live music, when a stage barge is brought in and anchored to the pier. But it also serves as an excellent spot to watch the river.
It is also a popular spot to embark on a short cruise on an old fashioned riverboat. Once very popular before the invention of cars, these riverboats traveled in abundance along the rivers of America in the 19th and early 20th century.
But if there is no riverboat, and you time it just right, you can catch the river at sunset, when the light from the setting sun sparkles off the ripples of the water.
But whether it is day or night, summer or winter, clear or overcast, this river walk is a beautiful getaway from the world you know, while at the same time being only a few steps away from it.
