Hellbender Bluff park

Recently opened Hellbender Bluff county park is an asset for our county. A 752 acre area that boarders the west fork of Beaver creek. Named after the endangered hellbender salamander the park came into existence by donated land, grants, and partnerships involving the park district and the Appalachian Regional Reforestation Initiative. Many other groups were involved also including hundreds of local volunteers.

Part of the land is reclaimed strip mine that has been recently reforested , natural wooded pine groves , and another spectacular gorge that meanders through along the creek side.
The hellbender is a very big salamander that inhabits the waters of Beaver creek. They are often called "mud puppies" or "waterdogs" by the locals. They are remarkable creatures that can live up to 50 years.

The nice thing about this park is it's potential to be a great place for a wide variety of things to do and explore. Hunting and fishing will be allowed here in the respected season. There are miles of trails to hike or mountain bike. There is a not a lot of single track for riding but there is tons of wide double track on the top side of the park that possibly could be used for cross country skiing if the weather cooperated this coming winter. Horseback riding is not allowed in the park though.

It is a beautiful place with plenty of trails to explore. There are plenty of amazing things to see off the trails as well but be careful some of the gorge walls drop over 70 feet or so. Below are just some of the things that can be seen.   



One of many rock outcroppings along the gorge.



As you can see these are pretty massive overhangs.




The upper part of the park has lots of trails cut through the open fields





A look from the top of the trail to the bottom




This is a view looking down the creek south of the trail.

 


One of the trails that leads down to the creek edge

  There is a lot to see at this park and it will become one of the gems of our area.

More pictures can be seen at :    https://picasaweb.google.com/117748738497939158793/HellbenderBluffPark?authuser=0&feat=directlink

Next post : 11/25/11