Let’s get outside and enjoy the trails together!

PVAS Host: Ellen Murphy

This is a free/donation-based program. All ages are welcome, though youth must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration is required and limited to 15 participants. This program has a minimum of 5 participants.

This March, we’ll head out along a stretch of the C&O Canal Towpath near Shepherdstown for an early-spring stroll with a festive twist. Since it’s St. Patrick’s Day, feel free to celebrate by dressing in green as we walk through the towpath’s “green tunnel” (even if most trees haven’t leafed out just yet). Although the leaves won’t have emerged, we may spot some emerging spring ephemeral wildflowers making their brief but beautiful appearance!

Operating for nearly 100 years, the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal was a vital lifeline for communities along the Potomac River, carrying coal, lumber, and agricultural goods to market. As we walk this historic towpath, we’ll enjoy the subtle signs of spring and savor good company along the river. Leashed dogs are welcome.

• Walking Distance: Approximately 2 miles or less.
• Pace/Activities: Moderate (steady but able to maintain a conversation)
• Exposure: Mostly shaded, though with few leaves in March.
• Terrain: Gravel. The route is generally flat.
• Restroom: Restrooms are available for this program.
• Parking/Where to Meet: Participants will meet at the large parking lot near Shepherdstown, located here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/16gAo7LyC2NSsYPv9. Note this is NOT the first one on Canal Rd. after turning off Shepherdstown Pike. Keep following Canal Rd until you go under the railroad bridge, then it will be to your left.
• 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).