Mountain State Destinations: Cathedral State Park

AURORA, WV (WVNS) — West Virginia is home to many State Parks and forests with gorgeous views, but one has certain aspects that make it stand out.

Mountain State Destinations: John Henry and the Great Bend Tunnel

Cathedral State Park, located in the Aurora area of Preston County, is home to the largest old-growth forests left in the Mountain State, as well as one of the largest strands of virgin hemlock trees. The 133-acre park was made a National Natural Landmark in 1966, and has more than 170 species of vascular flora on record including over 30 tree species, nine species of fern, more than 50 wildflower species, and three species of club moss.

Branson Haas, the Brookside Resort caretaker, bought the land in 1922 and later sold the land to the state in 1942 with the requirement that the forest will never be cut down.

Old growth forests to visit in West Virginia

According to the West Virginia Encyclopedia, the oldest hemlock tree in the park is 500 years old, 123 feet tall, with a base of 20 feet in circumference, and some of the other trees are up to 90 feet tall with a 21 foot circumference at the base.

There are also around six miles of hiking trails available during spring and summer that can take hikers around the park to enjoy nature and photo opportunities. Not only are there hiking trails, there are also two shelters, a playground area, and restrooms at the park.

This Mountain State destination offers a look at some of the oldest trees that make up a part of natural history in the state.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS.