Survey: These are the most relaxing natural landmarks in West Virginia

CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY) — Looking for some outdoor therapy? According to a recent survey, these are the best places to relax in West Virginia.

The survey by A Mission For Michael, a network of mental health professionals, aimed to find the most relaxing and therapeutic spots in each state. For West Virginia, three landmarks stood out.

The #1 most relaxing spot in West Virginia is the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area in the Monongahela National Forest, according to the survey. Located near the Webster and Pocahontas County line, the Cranberry Glades is the perfect place to get away. This high-elevation bog has many characteristics and plants commonly found in Canada. It has several trails, including a short boardwalk loop that is perfect from a therapeutic stroll.

“It’s quiet in a deep, hushed way – the kind of place where nature doesn’t need to try hard to impress,” a press release said.

Second in West Virginia was the Seneca Creek Trail in the Dolly Sods Wilderness. This trail is long, remote and has no cell service, making it the perfect place to reset. It also has a lot of features and foliage not commonly found in West Virginia. Because Dolly Sods is a wilderness area, the Monongahela National Forest restricts groups to fewer than 10 people, meaning no crowds. For longer visits, you can utilize the remote, primitive campsites along the trail.

The third landmark is Lindy Point at Blackwater Falls State Park. Although the main falls overlook at the park is worth seeing, if you are looking for a less crowded hike to a terrific view, consider visiting Lindy Point at sunrise or sunset.

If you’re willing to travel outside of West Virginia, the most relaxing landmarks in neighboring states are:

• Maryland – Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge (Chester River area)
• Pennsylvania – Cherry Springs State Park (Potter County)
• Ohio – Sheldon Marsh State Nature Preserve (Huron)
• Virginia – Mount Pleasant Scenic Area (George Washington National Forest)
• Kentucky – Yahoo Falls (Daniel Boone National Forest)