Join Ellen Murphy for a lively walk!

PVAS Host: Ellen Murphy

Free and open to the public. All ages are welcome, though youth must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required and limited to 15 participants. This program has a minimum of 5 participants.

Join us for our Wellness Walk at Stauffer’s Marsh Nature Preserve, a 46-acre wetland preserve nestled in Back Creek Valley. Once farmland, this special place was transformed through the USDA’s first Wetland Reserve Program project in West Virginia. Today, this area is a haven for wildlife—especially waterfowl—with at least 167 bird species observed on site.

As we walk the trails, we’ll take in the rich sights and sounds of the marsh. From the calls of migrating birds to the quiet rustle of grasses, Stauffer’s Marsh offers a peaceful escape into nature. The rear of the preserve is bordered by the meandering Back Creek, adding to the tranquil beauty of the landscape.

Don’t miss this chance to stretch your legs, breathe deeply, and experience a wetland landscape teeming with life.

• Walking Distance: 1-1.5 miles
• Pace/Activities: Moderate (steady but able to maintain a conversation)
• Exposure: Partial shade. Some areas of full sun.
• Terrain: Hard ground/hiking trail The route is generally flat.
• Restroom: No restrooms are available.
• Parking/Where to Meet: The group will meet near the parking lot.
• What to Bring: Dress for the weather, bring water, and wear sturdy shoes!

Register Here!

Registration will remain open until the start of the program.

If the required minimum # of people do not register by 4 pm the evening prior, the program will be cancelled.

Read our pricing structure & policies.

About our Host: Ellen is retired from PVAS (and a former National Park Ranger and Girl Scout Camp Director). With PVAS, she taught the Watershed Program, taught general environmental education for PK-5th grades, and directed Audubon Discovery Camp for 11 years. She has been a Master Naturalist since 2007. Her favorite word is “Look” and my favorite place is Yankauer Nature Preserve. She and her husband Kevin have been married for 39 years, residents of WV for almost 30 years, and “parents” to a series of pound puppies (currently #8 and 9).