Pine Mountain Overlook Area Culture & Recreation
There are several cultural and recreationalopportunities in the Elkhorn area for groups who wish to know more about Appalachia, or simply to enjoy the outdoors during free time.
Pocahontas Exhibition Coal MineJust a few minutes from Bramwell, WV, the Pocahontas mine offers excellent tours for those who want to learn about the history of coal mining and maybe pick up a souvenir at the gift shop. Pipestem State Resort ParkPipestem Resort State Park is a year-round destination for visitors to West Virginia. SWAP volunteers love the hiking, horseback riding, mini-golf, and panoramic views that Pipestem has to offer. Pinnacle Rock State ParkLocated a short distance from Elkhorn, Pinnacle Rock is an unusual sandstone formation reaching 3100 feet above sea level, and is the main feature of Pinnacle Rock State Park. Other park attractions include hiking and picnicking. For those who enjoy fishing, Jimmy Lewis Lake, 2 miles from Pinnacle Rock, is stocked with trout waiting for your lure! Ashland Company StoreSWAP volunteers who wish to learn about Appalachian heritage should take the time to visit this restored "Company Store, now stocked with fine woodwork, quilts, paintings, and food products. The focus of the store is to encourage entrepeneurship, especially involving the preservation and promotion of Appalachian heritage crafts. For those who develop an appetite as they shop, the Coal Camp Cafe is an excellent choice for a tasty meal." Coalwood, West VirginiaToday, Coalwood is a small town of 900. Its history as a coal mining town was thrust into the spotlight by Universal Pictures October Sky, an inspiring story of academic success and accomplishment in a blue-collar culture. The story exemplifies the struggle for opportunity and respect that many in Appalachia have historically faced. 2nd Generation Bluegrass BandAs you listen to the sound of 2nd Generation, you hear a sound that is distinctly Appalachian. It's a sound that embodies the history and culture of Appalachia, it’s ‘mountain soul music’...and it's great to listen to. Occasionally, when time & schedules allow, SWAP volunteers at Elkhorn are treated to a 2nd Generation concert, and they love it. Historic Bramwell, WVBramwell, WV, founded in 1888 is an Historic Town by the Bluestone River, where fourteen millionaires resided here during the time when ‘coal was king’. The town reflects the large fortunes amassed by the local coal barons. It has plenty of well preserved Victorian and Tudor style mansions. Self-guided walking tours and group tours are offered at Bramwell for an unforgettable glimpse into the lives of the wealthy of bygone days.
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