Bonnie Cranmer
Contributing writer
Craig County has a wealth of outdoor opportunities for fun. The Blue Ridge Games invites players to enter for prizes in our region for doing what you’re already planning. If anyone loves hiking, biking, fishing and the thrill of a scavenger hunt, this is the contest for them. Craig County is one of several localities participating in the Blue Ridge Games and sees benefits for Craig residents who participate.
It’s an easy process to register, first as a WSLS Insider, then with the Blue Ridge Games website at https://www.wsls.com/contests. Registration for the games is $20 if those interested want a T-shirt or free just to participate. After registering, use the PinIt feature to log outdoor adventures to earn points from Aug. 12 through Sept. 6. Watch progress with other participants in the games and compete for exciting prizes.
Fenwick Mines Day Use Area is a wonderful family outdoor experience that can be entered for points. Located off Rt 615 near New Castle, the trails and property provide ample hiking, biking and fishing adventures. The trail system threads through a lush and vibrant forested environment. Watch for turtles and lizards, birds and other wildlife along the path. The recent rains have added some much-needed water to the ponds and creeks. A fish or two may be swimming in the waters on select sections of the trail. There is a picnic shelter, horseshoe pits and handicap accessible trails to explore. Once you’re back in a service area, be sure to PinIt on the website to register points.
Head further up Rt 311, over picturesque Potts Mountain into Paint Bank to explore historic Tinglers Mill behind the Paint Bank Store. The historic mill wheel turns with splashes and whispers of the tales it has seen. The mill, the store and the Paint Bank community are a step back in time and well worth a hike around town. Those interested can feed the fish at the USDA trout fish hatchery and even at the Mill Pond. Fishing in Paint Bank can be a relaxing afternoon excursion, with one’s own equipment or renting a pole at the store. After getting back to more connected areas, be sure to log adventure on the PinIt page of the Blue Ridge Games to get account points.
Craig County has opportunities for biking, too, and many of the back roads and forest trails are well known to biking enthusiasts. It is always recommended to wear easy to see clothing and safety equipment on a bike when riding on rural routes. Pastoral landscapes and scenic vistas are abundant, so be sure to capture a photo or two of the adventure, then PinIt to keep up with the competition in the Blue Ridge Games.
If planning any outdoor activities in August, the Blue Ridge Games has a way to get outside and win prizes. Remember to PinIt every experience to achieve the most points during the Aug. 12 through Sept. 6 period. Winners will be announced on Sept. 9 and the Craig County Tourism Commission is anticipating many Craig County spots will be on the PinIt map from residents participating. “Your Next Adventure Awaits” is the calling card of the outdoor beauty of Craig County starting on Main Street and beyond.
Photos by Bonnie Cranmer
