FOUR WINDS COUNTRY ESTATE

A modern country home, exquisitely designed to perfection, with attention given to every detail. Many possibilities for raising livestock, crops, gardens, hiking and nature viewing.

HIGHLIGHTS

• 5700 square foot +/- custom built modern country estate home
• 53+/- deeded acres with some 40 acres fields and 10 acres woodlands
• 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths  3 ½ baths with a total of 16 rooms
• Guest Suite Bonus Space currently used as an office with serving area for food or beverages
• 20 minutes to the New River at Sandstone or the Greenbrier River at Alderson.
• 48 x 32  Barn  (9×12 bay)  Water, half bath, loft area, concrete floor and outside shelter area. 100 amp service.
• One of  Greenbrier County’s most beautiful country estates
• Meadow River flows thru the property.
• All mineral rights in title will convey
• Modern survey is on file
• Quality high tensile and wood farm fencing in place
• Farmland management increases carrying capacity and extends the grazing season
• Rich and diverse resident wildlife population unrivaled in the region
• Minutes to I 64,  and an easy drive to Beckley, Lewisburg or Charleston jet airports
• 3 farm ponds provide, wildlife habitat, ice skating and a nature viewing site
• Patches of forest intertwine with the farm fields creating an exciting recreational property
• Wildlife program enhances habitat, increases diversity, promotes health of the resident wildlife
• A rewarding permaculture lifestyle can be easily developed
• Agricultural grasses and the forest produce Oxygen and sequester carbon dioxide
• Superior access by state maintained paved roads – FedEx, UPS and USPS delivery
• Cell phone coverage is excellent in most areas with 4G service
• Darkest of skies with little light pollution for star-planet gazing & astrophotography
• Sedges, rushes, ferns, songbirds, frogs, turtles, & crawdads populate the ponds and wetlands
• Located in peaceful Greenbrier County just 30 minutes to Lewisburg
• Fur bearing – deer, black bear, squirrel, rabbit, bobcat, raccoon, fox, chipmunk, opossum
• Winged wildlife – eagles, hawks, owls, ravens, turkeys and Neotropical songbirds
• Agricultural grasses coupled with the forest produce life-giving Oxygen and sequester Carbon dioxide
• Spectacular long-range views across the Meadow River Valley and distant Mountain Ranges
• Perfect for recreational activities including shooting sports, ATV riding, horseback riding, hiking, camping, hunting and nature viewing
• Low taxes, low population density
• Scenic, cultural, and historic values of the Four Winds Country Estate provide exceptional quality of life values

THE HOME AT FOUR WINDS COUNTRY ESTATE

Elegance, Charm and character are all found in this impressive home located at 623 Cadle Ridge Road, Alderson, West Virginia.  Also known as the community of Grassy Meadows: a picturesque area of Greenbrier County.  This classic modern Americana Victorian Farmhouse is composed of four bedrooms, three full baths and three half baths with a total living space of 5,700 Square Feet. A grand Hallmark Home overlooking the Meadow River.  Oak hardwood floors, granite countertops, crown molding, vaulted ceiling, balcony, entertainment space and more.  Encompassing 53 acres of land, never ending views of the mountains, blue skies, wildlife, fresh air and nature.  A lovely country estate, farm, event staging or anything you wish to dream.  Perfect spot for a “Wedding Venue” Destination.  Plenty of parking and wide-open spaces for guests.  Also Included is the traditional “Country Red Barn” as functional as it is appealing — with Barn Loft, Concrete floor, half bath, outside shelter area, water and power.

Luxury Kitchen with granite countertops, cherry custom cabinetry, Artisan copper sink, Pantry, Bosch dishwasher, Island counterspace with built – ins and seating.  Featured is the classic AGA enamel over cast iron cookstove.  Imagine family and friends gathered around the kitchen… easy conversation fills the air, mingling with mouth-watering aromas. Wine glasses are full and smiling faces abound.  The AGA Classic cast-iron gas range is truly the heart of the home where cooking differently and living exquisitely create the sort of home that draws everyone near.   Beneath the glossy enamel of the stove beats the heart of quality cast iron.  This is what sets the AGA stove above all others.  A unique temperature regulation system continually transfers heat to each oven and hotplate at precise pre-set levels while the cast iron maintains full heat retention.  The efficient radiant heat and insulated design minimizes fuel consumption and creates optimal cooking conditions.  Gentle radiant heat locks in moisture of every ingredient, thereby preserving flavor, nutrients and the integrity of the foods you love.  Everyday cooking or the professional chef will appreciate the goodness.

Enjoy sunshine and nature indoors and outdoors year-round.  Central living space vaulted ceiling with sunburst window accent add to excellent views of the mountains.   Appealing open floor plan with glass window panels and doorways create a stately wall of light leading to the cut stone veranda and gardens.  Stone patio outdoor kitchen area offers quiet time or exciting space for entertaining guests.  Stone accent throughout the garden area and the delicate garden gate staircase add character to an already charming expansive home.  Outdoor living space creates a Country Villa effect and a status gardener’s dream property.

Views of the Little White Church on the hill across the meadows are of McElhenny Presbyterian Church a community Beacon for generations.   Leef’s Knob elevation 2,720 feet can be seen in the immediate left view along with various other mountain ranges in the distance.  A short drive into the mountains will take you to the highest point in the area Keeney’s Knob elevation 3,369 feet.  For the outdoor all-terrain vehicle enthusiast the riding opportunities are open to side-by-sides, quads and dirt bikes to enjoy the country roads.  Horseback riding is also a popular day trip into the nearby mountains on the West Virginia Country Roads.  Whatever method you travel by or find your way these same Country Roads will take you back home to Almost Heaven in Grassy Meadows.

Victorian Flair Octagon Gazebo porch design adds to the perfect balance of crisp clean lines and soft traditional timeless appeal.  Southern living at its best.  Tall porch columns invoke thoughts of beloved memories spending time with family and “front porch setting”.  Dining Room and front parlor entrances conveniently open to the Victorian porch.  Master Bedroom private outdoor balcony perfect for morning coffee or cool starlit evenings.  A bright, comfortable Country Dreamhouse. A very pleasing and Well-Designed home with attention to detail, storage space and large walk-in closets.  Three-bay garage with additional guest suite above.  Eloquently landscaped with many perennials including pink dogwood, Rhododendron, Hydrangea, Japanese Quince, Cherry Laurel, Peony and more.

The Meadow River takes its name from the Big Meadows of western Greenbrier County, the region of glades and pastureland in southeastern West Virginia in which it sources.  The headwaters of the Meadow River gently course through the fields adding to the graceful element of the property.  The river contributes to the local ecosystem richness and diversity for both plants and animals.  There are many animals that live year-round and at other times in the water and around the edges of the water including beavers, otters, minks, raccoons, blue herons, Canada geese, wood ducks, mallards, king fishers, minnows, native fish, turtles, salamanders, newts, crayfish, muskrats, bull frogs, eagles, owls, hawks and redwing blackbirds just to name a few.   Three ponds in the glen below the home create a natural water feature.

Beautiful land, water, views, great access and a rural appeal yet close to towns, airports and all amenities.  All mineral rights convey.

HOME HIGHLIGHTS

• Custom built in 2004
• Architect – William Poole
• Contractor – Southern Builders / Fisher Construction
• Views from every window.  Very ambient home. Natural golden light flows throughout. Well designed to bring the outdoors in with style and grace.
• Huge 3-story country estate-style home.
• 5700 sq. ft.
• Large covered front porch, side porch, octagon gazebo, veranda and private master bedroom balcony.
• Victorian Flair Octagon Gazebo side wrap porch design
• The perfect balance of crisp clean lines and soft traditional timeless appeal.
• Southern living at its very best.
• Tall porch columns invoke thoughts of beloved memories spending time with family and “front porch setting”.
• Dining Room and front parlor entrances conveniently open to the Victorian porch.
• Exterior: Stone, Vinyl, Oak trim.
• Custom sandstone front steps.  Sandstone veranda retaining wall caps and Veranda Wall Custom Sandstone.
• Stone exterior foundation accent and terrace faux Cobblestone
• Relaxing Patio or entertainment extravaganza.
• Garden Terrace area. Delicate enhancement to the property
• Outdoor living space breaths character and charm
• Country Villa effect.  Noteworthy Status Gardeners Dream.
• Roof: CertainTeed Architectural Integrity Shingle – Color Slate Collection
• Foundation: block and concrete
• Heating /Heil Heat Pumps. Dual fuel Propane/Electric. Lower level and first level zone 1. Second Floor zone 2. Guest Suite Zone 3
• Fireplace – Propane with stone hearth for ambience and warmth.
• Guardian by Generac 13-Kilowatt Backup Generator
• Open concept design floor plan.
• Recessed Lighting, Candlelight Sconces, Candelabra Chandeliers and accent Fixtures.
• Large kitchen with custom cherry cabinetry and granite countertops
• Pantry Storage Room.
• Custom Copper Sink. Durable copper with natural antibacterial properties.
• Huge Birch kitchen island painted antique black with built ins.
• Formal dining room
• Bright, comfortable Country Dreamhouse
• Doors are solid core 8′ foot on the main level
• Custom Kolbe Entrance Doors main level and dining room.
• Sparkling designer Kolbe windows, sunburst, sidelights and sash windows.  Glass Block lower level
• Ceilings are 10′ on the main level, 9′ on the second floor and lower level.
• Flooring: Appalachian red oak hardwood 3, 4 and 5″,  ceramic tile and carpet
• Walls: drywall and wood wainscoting
• Beautiful red oak staircases.
• Scroll Stair Brackets.
• Vaulted Ceiling
• Sunburst Window galleria and sunburst glass transoms over exit doorways.
• Stately Wall of light Central living area leads to Veranda.
• Poplar moldings, casings and crown.
• First floor large master bedroom with balcony, bay windows and large double closets
• Large 4-piece master bath with clawfoot tub, glass block shower enclosure and granite countertop.
• Finished walkout basement with 1/2 bath, maintenance room, storage area and utility room.
• Main floor sq. ft. = 2660
• Upper floor sq. ft. = 1,108
• Lower level finished = 1500
• Total rooms = 17
• 4 bedrooms and large Guest Suite
• 3 full baths; 3 ½ bath
• Appliances to convey = AGA Legacy Propane Range, electric convection oven, refrigerator, dishwasher, dryer, washer
• Three-car attached garage 9’w 8’h Bays.  Carriage House Doors. Concrete Floor.
• 48’x32  Barn with attached shelter. Water, 100 amp service. half bath, loft, work area. 12’w x 9’h bay. Dutch Gable Roof. Concrete Floor.
• Paved circular drive at the house.
• Professionally designed and maintained landscaping
• Long distant mountain views

ROOM DIMENSIONS

Living Room        21 x 22.6
Guest Suite        36 x 23.6
Kitchen            19 x 20.6
Laundry            12 x 6
Master Bedroom     22.6 x 21
Bedroom 2          12 x 14
Bedroom 3          14. 6 x 13.6
Bedroom 4          14.6 x 13.6
Master Bath        15.6 x 10.6
Full Bath Floor 2  10  x 8.6
Full Bath Floor 2  12  x 8.6
Half Bath  Floor 1  6  x 5
Half Bath lower     5 x 5
Half Bath Barn      7 x 6
Lower Level        12.6 x 37 x 6 x 15
Lower Level        24.6 x 17
Utility Room       17 x 5
Maintenance Room   30 x 24
Garage             37 x 24.6  (9×8 bays)
Barn               48  x 32   (9×12 bay)
Front Porch        30 x 9
Side Porch         14.6 x 13.6
Octagon Gazebo    8′ Diameter
Balcony            6 x 10
Veranda            15 x 20

Kitchen Appliances:
Kenmore refrigerator
Bosch dishwasher
AGA Legacy propane range
Electric convection oven
Washer and dryer
Two 50-gallon electric water heaters

LOCATION

Google Coordinates: 37.820173°(N), -80.718136°(W)
Address: 623 Cadle Ridge Road, Alderson, WV 24910
Elevation Range: 2415 ft. to 2524 ft. +/-

UTILITIES

Drilled Well
Frontier Internet / Dish
First Energy Power
Propane
Guardian by Generac Backup Power
Heil HVAC Heat Pumps
Good Cell Coverage

WATER

The headwaters of the Meadow River travel through the property for about 4/10 mile. This headwaters section of the river is a blue line stream, which should have regular water flow, especially during rain events and snow melt. There are 3 small ponds that are a part of the field area.

AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES

Four Winds consists of approximately 40 acres of pasture and cropland.

The property perimeter is fenced with some interior cross-fencing. The fencing is 8 strand high tensile with board fence along parts of the driveway.

There are 2 small farm ponds for watering stock.

The ongoing grassland management program is designed to increase carrying capacity and extend the grazing season.

The well-maintained grasslands also conserve water and filter out manure and nutrients, keeping them from entering nearby water bodies, protecting water quality, human health, and animal health.

OUTBUILDINGS

There is a 48’ x 32’  Barn  (9×12 bay)  that has water, half bath, loft area, concrete floor, 100 amp service, .and an outside shelter area.

The approximately 40 acres of open ground could be suitable for multiple uses including:

• The open land has historically been used to raise row crops, cattle, sheep, and livestock forage
• The land is suitable for growing row crops such as corn, oats, wheat, pumpkins, and many kinds of vegetables
• Some very old fruit trees can be found scattered about dating back to the early days of the farm
• The production of maple syrup is popular in this region, and the farm has the maple tree resources to produce gallons of high-grade syrup
• Honey is also a well-established industry in the area

MINERAL RESOURCES

West Virginia is one of the states in the US that has two ownership titles, those being SURFACE RIGHTS and MINERAL RIGHTS. A title search for mineral rights ownership has not been conducted. All rights the owner has will convey with the property. A mineral title search could be conducted by a title attorney at the same time when the surface title search is being conducted.

BOUNDARIES AND SURVEY

The property is comprised of 2 adjoining tracts of land that were separately surveyed in 2006 and 2016. The survey plats and metes and bounds descriptions from those surveys are shown in the owner’s deeds. The northeastern boundary is the state road, and much of the southeastern boundary is formed by the access road. Some other boundaries are evidenced by fencing. A pond area near the residence is being excepted, and the boundary of the property in that area will be revised by survey. The property is being sold by the boundary and not by the acre.

ACCESS/FRONTAGE

The property has about ¼ mile of frontage on Snake Run Road Rt. 42. Plus, there is a deeded access right-of-way.

ZONING

Greenbrier County is subject to some zoning and subdivision regulations. All prospective buyers should consult the County Commission and also the Health Department for details regarding zoning, building codes and installation of septic systems.
Information can be found at the county website: http://greenbriercounty.net/ordinances.

PROPERTY TYPE/USE SUMMARY

The property consists of about 5.3 acres in the estate grounds, about 39 acres of field area, and small wooded areas.
(This summary is an estimation of current property use as determined from aerial photography. It is made subject to the estimation of property boundaries and any errors in the interpretation of land use type from the aerial photography utilized.)

DEED AND TAX INFORMATION

Deed Information: DB 504 Pg. 560 and DB 582 Pg. 178, less small area being excepted
Greenbrier County, West Virginia

Acreage: 53 acres +/- after removing the excepted area
Real Estate Tax ID/Acreage/Taxes:

Greenbrier County (13), West Virginia
Blue Sulphur District (3)

Tax Map 20 Parcel 31, Class 3, and Tax Map 20 Parcel 31.4 (exception to be removed from tax parcel 31.4), Class 2

2021 Real Estate Taxes: $2,999.44 (both whole tax parcels before small exception is removed)

SCHOOLS

Greenbrier County School District
Public Elementary School:
Smoot Elementary School

Public Middle School:
Western Greenbrier Middle School

Public High School:
Greenbrier West High School

Colleges:
New River Community and Technical College (Lewisburg campus)
West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine

Private Schools:
Greenbrier Community School (PK-8)
Greenbrier Valley Academy (2-8)
Lewisburg Baptist Academy (PK-12)
Renick Christian School (2-7)
Seneca Trail Christian Academy (PK-12)

THE AREA

Four Winds Country Estate is an easy drive to higher population areas of Charleston, Roanoke, Blacksburg, Beckley, Princeton and Lewisburg.

Nearby Beckley & Lewisburg offer grocery stores, restaurants, banks, auto parts stores, hardware, hospital, dentists and most other city amenities. Beckley is the Raleigh County Seat and Lewisburg is the Greenbrier County seat and they are the economic and governmental hub of those counties.

Charleston is West Virginia’s state capitol (90 min). Charleston is West Virginia’s largest city with a population of some 50,000 and a metro area of 225,000. It is the center of government, commerce, culture and industry. There is a commercial airport with daily flights to most major hubs.

Beckley (30 min), has a population of 34,000, and is the county seat of Raleigh County. All city amenities are available in Beckley. Beckley is located at the intersection of I-77, I-64 and US 19 so easy access to Charlotte, Pittsburgh, Charleston and Cincinnati is just around the corner.

The surrounding area offers unlimited recreational activities including white water rafting, golfing, fishing, camping, hiking, bird watching and rock climbing and snow skiing.

Highlights:

• 30-60 min to Beckley, Princeton, Lewisburg, 80,000 acre New River Gorge National Park, 2,000 acre Bluestone Lake, Pipestem Resort and Bluestone State Park, Sandstone Falls, Winterplace Ski Resort and the 4-Star Greenbrier Resort, 3000 acre Summersville Lake
• A picturesque Amtrak train ride from Hinton or White Sulphur Springs connects the area to DC, Philadelphia, New York, Chicago, and many other locations
• Washington, DC is 5 hours and Charlotte 3 hours
• Charleston, Beckley, Lewisburg airports offer jet service to main hubs
• Charleston, the state capitol, is 1.5 hours’ drive and offers all large city amenities
• Easy access to I-64, I-77, I-79, US 460, US 19
• The Bechtel Summit Reserve, the12,000 acre Boy Scouts of America’s high adventure camp (60 min)
• The 14,000 acre Bluestone Wildlife Management Area is just down river at Bull Falls

FIVE RIVERS AND TWO LAKES (within an hour’s drive)

The New River Gorge was a vast and largely unsettled wilderness until the C&O railroad was built on the eastern side of the river in the 1880’s. The railroad opened up the rich coalfields and virgin timber stands of the region. Early “mountaineers” settled the area and soon were carving out mountain farms and raising families.

All rivers and lakes are within an easy one hour’s drive from the property: Babcock Forest is located in the heart of the recreational mecca area encompassing the New River, Greenbrier River, Gauley River, Cherry River and Bluestone River. Within this vast watershed lies the 2000-acre Bluestone Lake and 3000 acre Summersville Lake.

The nearby New River, Greenbrier River, Summersville Lake, and Bluestone Lake are major contributors to the local ecosystem richness and diversity for both plants and animals. There are many animals that live year round and at other times in the water and around the edges of the rivers/lake, including beavers, otters, minks, raccoons, opossums, blue herons, Canada geese, wood ducks, mallards, king fishers, minnows, native fish, turtles, salamanders, newts, crayfish, muskrats, bull frogs, eagles, owls, hawks and redwing blackbirds.

Great fishing is found in the Greenbrier River, New River, and both Lakes with small and large mouth bass, crappie, catfish, muskie, walleye, pike and bluegill present in good numbers.

The New River is the second oldest river in the world, preceded only by the Nile; it is the oldest river in North America. The New River is unique because it begins in Blowing Rock, N.C. and flows north through Virginia into West Virginia. The Nile and Amazon are the only other major rivers that also flow north. Year after year, it produces more citation fish than any other warm water river in WV. Smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, sunfish, hybrid striped bass, and muskie are all common species of fish found in the New River and Bluestone Lake.

Bluestone Lake is over 2000 acres at summer pool and is the state’s third largest body of water. Great hunting and fishing opportunities abound at the 17,632-acre Bluestone Wildlife Area adjacent to the park and nearby Camp Creek State Forest. Summersville Lake is over 3,000 at summer pool and is the state’s largest body of water.

RECREATION AT THE FOUR WINDS COUNTRY ESTATE

Spring. Summer. Winter. Fall. We have them all in West Virginia. As a true four season destination, each season brings with it new life, natural wonders and unique activities to experience the season in   its fullest form. Here, you can take in vivid fall foliage, explore towering waterfalls frozen in time,  walk in the thickets of blooming rhododendrons, or enjoy crystal clear waters in the heat of summer.   Almost heaven awaits in West Virginia.

The Four Winds Country Estate offers exceptional recreational opportunities. Numerous soft recreational activities are anchored by the proximity to the Greenbrier River, New River, and Bluestone Lake.

Nature viewing is first in line of recreational activities. Attentive wildlife management has been geared not to just game animals. Equal consideration has been extended to increasing the numbers and diversity of species including neo-tropical songbirds, butterflies, turtles, frogs, rabbits, chipmunks, dragonflies, owls and hawks.

Stargazing-Planet Observation
Complete darkness can be still be found on areas of the property, thereby affording the opportunity to view the night sky in all its brilliant wonder.

Water-sports enthusiasts will find the nearby Greenbrier River ideal for swimming, canoeing, fishing, kayaking, tubing, snorkeling, paddle boarding and windsurfing. The New River also a short 20 minute drive is an exciting rafting and kayaking adventure destination.  Fishing is noted to be some of the best in the Northeast.

Mountain Biking, Horseback Riding and Hiking
The gently laying land may be used for conventional and mountain biking, hiking or horseback riding

Shooting-sports devotees find all the land and privacy needed to enjoy:

• Paintball-Airsoft-Laser Tag-Archery tag
• Shotgun sport shooting including Skeet, Trap, Double Trap and Sporting Clays
• Rifle & Handgun shooting: bullseye, silhouette, western, bench rest, long-range, fast draw
• Archery and Crossbow competition shooting
• Plain ole’ plinking: Grandpa’s old 22 single shot rifle and a few tin cans make a fun day

All Terrain Motorsports
The land offers many opportunities perfect for experiencing the property from an ATV or UTV. These exciting machines handle the wide variety terrain.

Dirt bikes can also be a lot of fun and they come in all sizes and horsepower to fit anyone who enjoys being on two wheels.

Hunting is a first-class experience. White tail deer, black bear, red/gray fox, bobcat, wild turkey, grouse, duck, squirrel, raccoon, fox and rabbit make up the resident wildlife population. It is hard to find a property that has a better mix of wildlife.

Adventure   Shining sunbeams and one-of-a-kind-adventures await this summer. Find tranquil trails, cool off in pristine waters and stay up late to find yourself surrounded by the starry night sky. When summer comes around, the fun begins in Almost Heaven.

SELF-SUSTAINING LIFE OFF THE GRID

Just like 200 years ago, when the first mountaineers settled the area, the property would be self-sustaining in times of necessity – even without electricity.

• Fresh water for drinking and cooking would come from springs and drilled water wells (hand drawing water from the wells using a cylinder well bucket).
• The ponds and forest would provide fresh food (fish, deer, and turkey).
• The agricultural land’s flat to rolling topography would be used to raise livestock of all kinds (chickens, pigs, cows, sheep, goats, rabbits etc.) and could be farmed with horse drawn equipment. The land would support vegetable gardens, berry patches, fruit orchards, and row crops of corn, oats and barley.
• Beehives would provide honey and beeswax for candles.
• The forest would provide firewood for heating and cooking, lumber for building, basket splints, maple syrup and pounds of nuts (walnuts, beechnuts and hickory nuts).

MEADOW RIVER WILDLIFE

Rich ecosystem for both plants and animals!

The Meadow river is a major contributor to the local ecosystem richness and diversity for both plants and animals. The 3 farm ponds and the surrounding aquatic plant life create a water supported community with a wide variety of wildlife. Some of the margins of the pond are fringed by wetlands, and these wetlands support the aquatic food web, provide shelter for wildlife, and stabilize the shore of the pond and banks downstream. The plant life associated with the wetland includes rushes, sedges, cattails, duckweed and algae.

There are many animals that live year round and at other times in the water and around the edges of the ponds and dashed blueline stream including raccoons, opossums, blue herons, Canada geese, wood ducks, mallards, minnows, native fish, turtles, salamanders, newts, crayfish, muskrats, bull frogs, eagles, hawks and redwing blackbirds.

There is the insect and microscopic world including butterflies, dragonflies, pond skaters, water beetles, damselflies, tadpoles and various insect larvae.

The diverse tree species, coupled with the abundant water supply from the ponds and creeks, creates the perfect wildlife habitat. The miles of “edge effect” created between farm fields, creeks, hollows, ridges, and rock outcrops benefit all the resident wildlife. Bald eagles, white tail deer, black bear, wild turkey, squirrel, rabbit, bobcat, raccoon, fox and many species of songbirds, owls and raptors make up the resident wildlife population.

The hardwood forest provides the essential nutrient source and produces tons of hard mast including acorns, hickory nuts, beech nuts and black walnuts. Soft mast includes stag horn sumac, black cherry, tulip poplar seeds, maple seeds, autumn olive berries and blackberries.

NEW RIVER GORGE NATIONAL PARK AND RESERVE

The Newest National Park in America at your back door…   Just a short 20 minute drive from the property will take you to the amazing New River National Park.  An awe inspiring visit that is sure to bring a new experience each and every time. Once you see it, it’s something you’ll never forget. Rock climbers have long prized the sandstone cliffs of West Virginia’s New River Gorge, which was redesignated as a national park and preserve in December.  New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is known for its 53 miles of free flowing whitewater that cuts through sandstone cliffs towering as high as 1,000 feet in the air. It boasts class III through V rapids and plenty of boulders to keep even the most experienced rafters engaged. The upper part of the river is calmer and more welcoming to new rafters. The area also boasts more than 1,500 climbing routes, as well as a 12.8-mile system of mountain bike trails built by the Boy Scouts.  There are moments, as you drift through the deep canyon walls of the New River Gorge, when it feels like you’ve got the whole world to yourself. It’s just you and the river, littered with massive, prehistoric boulders that were here when the coal mining camps were built, and the fur trading posts before them, and the Shawnee and Cherokee villages before those. In a river that geologists say could be one of the world’s oldest, you can lose yourself in time. Then the current picks up, and you’re back to paddling like mad, navigating the chutes and eddies of heart-pounding white water.  Since the 1960s, West Virginia’s New River Gorge has drawn adventure seekers to its rapids and rock walls, and those rafters and climbers have long considered it a hidden gem. But the curtain is being drawn back on the canyon, because part of it has become America’s 63rd national park. New River Gorge National River’s 72,186 acres is just like its name “New”.   The Newest National Park and Preserve in America.

We call West Virginia “Wild and Wonderful,” and this certainly is. 

GRANDVIEW AT THE NEW RIVER GORGE NATIONAL PARK

Located 35 minutes from the property you will find Grandview at New River National Park. Aptly named “Grandview”, this park hosts many opportunities to see the beautiful scenery around the New River Gorge. Grandview provides some of the most dramatic scenery found in the park and is a popular place for hiking, picnicking, and sight seeing. Grandview is a peaceful place to relax and unwind while enjoying outstanding views of the New River. From 1400 feet above the river at Main Overlook, visitors are rewarded with one of the most outstanding views in the park. On a clear day you can see directly into the heart of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, including seven miles of the New River and its watershed. From Main Overlook visitors can also get a glimpse of some of the gorge’s unique cultural history. From here you see an active railway and the town of Quinnimont, where the first coal was shipped out of the gorge in 1873.

Grandview is a MUST SEE. 

HISTORIC GREENBRIER COUNTY

Lewisburg, which is the Greenbrier County seat, was voted the Coolest Small Town in America, combining the warmth of a close community with the sophistication of more urban locations. The thriving downtown historic district offers year-round live productions presented at the State Professional Theatre of WV, Carnegie Hall, distinctive dining venues, antique shops, award-winning galleries/boutiques, a year-round farmer’s markets.

Greenbrier Valley Medical Center is a modern hospital and all attendant medical facilities, along with the many big box stores.

Lewisburg is also home to the modern Robert. C Byrd Medical Clinic (300 employees), the WV Osteopathic Medical School (600 students) and the New River Community and Technical College. The area is a strong economic generator with a solid workforce employed in county/state government, tourism, hospitality, medical, education, retail, construction, wood products, mining and agriculture.

The world-renowned Greenbrier Resort, with 800 rooms and 1600 employees, is located in the sleepy little town of White Sulphur Springs. The 4-Star resort has a subterranean casino and is home to the PGA tour, the “Greenbrier Classic.” Several other area golf courses are available in the area – including Oakhurst Links, America’s first golf course, where guests play using old style hickory-handled clubs and ground-burrowing golf balls.

A picturesque train ride from White Sulphur Springs connects the area to DC, Philadelphia, Chicago, and many other locations. By car, DC is 4 hours away and Charlotte is only 4.

Within a two-hour’s drive are located some of the finest recreational facilities in West Virginia. Winterplace Ski Resort, whitewater rafting / fishing on the New River and Gauley River, 2000 acre Bluestone Lake, Pipestem State Park and Resort and the 80,000 acre New River National Gorge National Park. Five other area state parks and state forests offer unlimited hiking, horseback riding, ATV riding and rock climbing opportunities. Snowshoe Ski Resort is 120 minute drive through some of the most scenic country on the East Coast. The new 12,000 acre Boy Scout High Adventure Camp and home to the US and World Jamboree is a 90 minute drive.

THE GREENBRIER RIVER – THE MOST CHARMING RIVER IN WEST VIRGINIA

Plan the day, morning or the evening. Only a 20 minute drive from the property is your water adventure destination at Alderson. Bring the boats, poles, swimmies or have a wonderful drive along the waterfront. Park access points, Kayak Chutes and a walking historic bridge over the river plus more at nearby Alderson. At 162 miles long, the Greenbrier is the longest untamed (unblocked) river left in the Eastern United States. It is primarily used for recreational pursuits and well known for its fishing, canoeing, kayaking and floating opportunities. Its upper reaches flow through the Monongahela National Forest.

The Greenbrier is formed at Durbin in northern Pocahontas County by the confluence of the East Fork Greenbrier River and the West Fork Greenbrier River, both of which are short streams rising at elevations exceeding 3,300 feet and flowing for their entire lengths in northern Pocahontas County. From Durbin the Greenbrier flows generally south-southwest through Pocahontas, Greenbrier and Summers Counties, past several communities including Cass, Marlinton, Hillsboro, Ronceverte, Fort Spring, Alderson, and Hinton, where it flows into the New River.

It has always been a valuable water route, with the majority of the important cities in the watershed being established riverports. The river gives the receiving waters of the New River an estimated 30% of its water volume. Over three-fourths of the watershed is an extensive karstic (cavern system), which supports fine trout fishing, cave exploration and recreation. Many important festivals and public events are held along the river throughout the watershed.

Along most of its course, the Greenbrier accommodated the celebrated Indian warpath known as the Seneca Trail (Great Indian Warpath). From the vicinity of present-day White Sulphur Springs the Trail followed Anthony’s Creek down to the Greenbrier near the present Pocahontas-Greenbrier County line. It then ascended the River to the vicinity of Hillsboro and Droop Mountain and made its way through present Pocahontas County by way of future Marlinton, Indian Draft Run, and Edray.

The Greenbrier River is one of the most charming rivers in West Virginia. At more than 150 miles long, it has great rural scenery, rich history, and excellent fishing. The Greenbrier was a Native American warpath and had a big role in the development of region’s early timber industry. Today, it offers some of the best recreation opportunities in the state, including very productive fishing spots. The smallmouth fishing in the Greenbrier is world-class. On a typical fishing day, you’ll see expert fly fishers tossing hand-tied flies from guided rafts, novices wading with push-button casting rods, and everyone in between. If you like to wade, you’ll find plenty of access points in and along the Greenbrier River . If you prefer to float, the river has great paddling on one of the longest undammed rivers in the east.

The Greenbrier River is the longest free flowing river in the Eastern US.

Draining the western slope of the Great Eastern Divide into Pocahontas, Greenbrier and Summers Counties of West Virginia, The Greenbrier River is the largest tributary of the mighty New River. One of the longest free-flowing, non-impeded rivers in the East, the Greenbrier is a busy, user friendly Smallmouth bass gem.

With water levels driven totally by rainfall and cave drainage, this river is usually warmed and ready to fish by mid April and flows remain dependable until mid July/thru September, under normal circumstances. Late Summer storms and a Fall hurricane or two, extends the season in our favor. The rising and falling of the water levels also serves to stir up bait fish and other food deposits, making things interesting enough to keep anglers anxious and actively pursuing Greenbrier bass well into the late fall season.

Characteristics of the Greenbrier River:

• Reasonably easy access
• Remote floatable sections
• Varied wildlife sightings
• Ease of floatability
• Good for all ages
• Good fish production in the 10″-16″ range
• Good for all forms of water recreation

GREENBRIER RIVER TRAIL

The 77-mile-long trail is operated by the West Virginia State Parks and is a former C&O railroad grade now used for hiking, bicycling, ski-touring, horseback-riding, and wheel-chair use. The trail passes through numerous small towns and traverses 35 bridges and 2 tunnels as it winds its way along the valley. Most of the trail is adjacent to the free-flowing Greenbrier River and is surrounded by peaks of the Allegheny Mountains.

THE NEW RIVER AND BLUESTONE LAKE

The property is located in the heart of the recreational mecca area and is 20 minutes to the New River, 80,000 acre New River Gorge National River Park and 35 minutes to the 2000 acre Bluestone Lake at Hinton. The New River Gorge was a vast and largely unsettled wilderness until the C&O railroad was built on the eastern side of the river in the 1880’s. The railroad opened up the rich coalfields and virgin timber stands of the region. Early “mountaineers” settled the area and soon were carving out mountain farms and raising families.

The New River is the second oldest river in the world, preceded only by the Nile; it is the oldest river in North America. The New River is unique because it begins in Blowing Rock, N.C. and flows north through Virginia into West Virginia. The Nile and Amazon are the only other major rivers that also flow north. Year after year, it produces more citation fish than any other warm water river in WV. Smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, sunfish, hybrid striped bass, and muskie are all common species of fish found in the New River and Bluestone Lake.

Bluestone Lake is over 2000 acres at summer pool and is the state’s third largest body of water. Great hunting and fishing opportunities abound at the 17,632 acre Bluestone Wildlife Area adjacent to the park and nearby Camp Creek State Forest.

MEADOW RIVER WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA

Game traditionally hunted in the management area includes deer, grouse, squirrel, raccoon, turkey, woodcock, and waterfowl.   The headwaters of the Meadow River provide some of the best viewing in this management area.  In spring and summer look for wood ducks, one of our most beautiful ducks.  Males, or drakes, are more colorful than females (hens).  During spring and fall migration, many species of waterfowl such as mallards and blue and green winged teals use these waters to rest.   During spring, listen for some common frogs of West Virginia:  northern spring peepers (a clear, single high-pitched note or “peep”), bullfrogs (“jug-orum”), pickerel frogs (a low-pitched note or “snore”), and green frogs (c’tung”). Great blue herons use the deep marsh; look for them in the shallows waiting for a fish or a frog.  From 1992 to 1996, river otters were released in the Meadow River by the Wildlife Resources Section.  Otters feed between early and mid-morning and then again in the evening.

The Meadow River Wildlife Management area encompases 2495 Acres and is located in western Greenbrier County five miles south of Rupert and 15 miles northwest of Lewisburg. The area is accessible from exits on expressway I-64 at Dawson, WV, or Sam Black Church, WV. Larger tracts are accessible off highway US-60 on Tommy Hall Road (CR-60/18) near Rupert.

               Look for wood ducks, one of our most beautiful ducks.

ARCHEOLOGY

Native American Artifact Collectors

The Four Winds Country Estate is located in the Meadow River Valley region of the New River watershed and contains interesting Native American artifacts.

Native American Indians who lived in the River Valleys of the Ohio, Meadow, Kanawha, Greenbrier and Roanoke, as well as northern Georgia, upper SC and Tennessee where part of the Archaic Period culture. This culture lasted from about 10,000 to 3,000 BP (before present day).

Native American artifact collectors search for, and have found, arrowheads, spear points, tomahawks, tools and toys (marbles) in the region of the valleys. Most of the artifacts would be from the Archaic period and can be readily found on any flat areas on the creek that would be one foot higher than the creek’s bank.

The American Native Indians who lived in what is now West Virginia led a Stone Age lifestyle – they only had stone tools and weapons, had never seen a horse and had no knowledge of the wheel.

There are many famous Native American tribes who played a part in the history of the state and whose tribal territories and homelands are located in West Virginia. The names of the tribes included the Cherokee, Iroquois, Manahoac, Meherrin, Monacan, Nottaway, Occaneechi, Saponi and Shawnee.
Other famous Tribes of Eastern Woodlands: Miami, Lenape, Iroquois, Massachusett, Powhatan, Abenaki, Shawnee and Pequot, Fox, Sauk, Wampanoag, Delaware, Huron (Wyandot), Mohawk, Mohican and Menominee.