June's PATC Women's hike

This month June's PATC Women's hike we will be meeting up at Cool Spring Preserves and walking the trails at the preserves.

Cool Spring Nature Preserve consists of 74 acres of forest, meadow and marsh in southern Jefferson County, West Virginia. Bullskin Run, a major stream with significant historical value, borders one side of the preserve. Cool Spring is designated as a “birding hotspot.” In Spring 2020, the entire preserve was placed under a conservation easement with the West Virginia Land Trust. In 2024, we were able to purchase an additional 11 acres, protecting even more of the sensitive Bullskin Run and Marl Marsh.

We have 1.7 miles of easy, mowed walking trails, a natural amphitheater, an outdoor classroom, a nature playground, and a gazebo with a nature journal station. The preserve is used for summer camps, children’s programs, adult workshops, and bird walks.

We also have a children’s nature playspace. Elements include an ‘eagles nest’, a large log to climb in and on top of, rocks to climb and logs to balance on, as well as benches for picnics and rest.

Group Size: 12 hikers

Time to Meet: Please meet 15-20 minutes prior to hike start for introductions and liability waiver sign in.

Meeting Location/Parking: We will meet at the Nature center right next to the parking lot:1469 Lloyd Road Charles Town WV, 25414

Facilities: No restroom is available at the trailhead.

Admission: Free

Contact Information: Please use the comments feature for comments and questions. The hike leader is Kristine Villatoro.

Cancellation: In the event that the hike needs to be cancelled, hikers will be notified through comments on this posting. Please check Meetup for updates the evening before the hike.

What to Bring: Water at least two liters, emergency contact information, personal first aid kit and medications, snacks/meal, sunscreen/protection from weather, insect repellant, trekking poles if you use them (highly recommended for hikes with water crossings), sturdy hiking footwear.

After hike rehydration: TBD

Notes: Please leave pets at home. Thanks!