12/15/2008
Ansted, W.Va. – Take part in a holiday scavenger hunt while learning about evergreens, conifers and pines at Hawks Nest State Park through Jan. 1 by searching for the “Twelve Wreaths of Christmas.” Guests to Hawks Nest Lodge may pick up a “Twelve Wreaths of Christmas” information flier and go searching throughout the lodge and lodge grounds to discover the wreaths. The flier includes a description of the conifers and evergreens and hints for the locations.
Hawks Nest Naturalist Willa Grafton and a dedicated band of employees and volunteers have given the age-old scavenger hunt game new meaning. “People love fresh greenery, so what better way to teach visitors and guests about conifers and vegetation than with Christmas wreaths?”
Wreaths are constructed from various conifers and vegetation, including: concolor fir (Abies concolor), blue spruce (Picea pungens), Serbian spruce (Picea omorika) white pine (Pinus strobes), and Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) and the “ugly duckling wreath,” Pinus resinosa, and Red Pine. Grafton, a registered forester, says guests appreciate a relaxed-atmosphere program. “People seem to be returning to traditional holiday expressions and gatherings. Using conifers at a state park just seemed the natural thing to do and guests are excited to learn the different species without taking a long outdoor hike.”
When people complete the wreath scavenger hunt, they receive a reward – a coupon for a free dessert at River’s View restaurant in the lodge. The coupon is good through March 31 and a meal purchase is required. “We hope people take advantage of some very good home cooking and enjoy their just desserts participating in our educational program…, I mean, Christmas games,” concludes Grafton.
There is no charge for the Twelve Wreaths of Christmas scavenger hunt and anyone may participate. The scavenger hunt list is available at the lodge front desk and includes descriptions of the materials used.
Hawks Nest State Park is located on Route 60 at Ansted, W.Va. Decorations, spruce trees, and wreaths at Hawks Nest will remain in place until the New Year. The park’s lodge, restaurant, and gift shop are open year-round. The aerial tram is closed for the season, but will reopen in May. For more information about Hawks Nest State Park’s interpretive programs and dinner theaters or other activities at WV State Parks, go online to www.wvstateparks.com or call 800 CALL WVA and ask for the park of your choice.
Contact Information
Willa Grafton
304-658-5196
parks@wvdnr.gov