[ business ]
EMILY RICE
Celebrate the
Southern Coalfields
West Virginia ’ s southern coalfields are no stranger to hardships ; however , the resilient spirit of generations past lives on through the area ’ s current residents who make their lives and home there .
Thanks to initiatives of the past decade , many non-functional mines have been revitalized through mine reclamation projects , allowing for diverse flora and fauna to develop and grow in these areas and , in some circumstances , creating new tourist attractions throughout the rolling hills of the Mountain State .
While the southern coalfields may have earned their nickname from their underground resources , above ground , this area is bursting with adventure and tourism opportunities . West Virginia is known as Almost Heaven , so it is only fitting that one of her biggest attractions is nicknamed Trails Heaven .
The Hatfield McCoy Trail System is made up of more than 800 miles of trails and located in the rich mountains of Southern West Virginia . Trails range from the scenic mountain views of Pinnacle Creek to the tight and twisting trails of Bearwallow . Many trails connect to West Virginia ’ s ATV-friendly towns ‚ where visitors can grab a bite to eat and experience true southern hospitality .
On July 22 , 2021 , West Virginia Executive hosted a reception at Tamarack in Beckley , WV , celebrating the area and its business community . Since 2003 , Tamarack has been highlighting the best of West Virginia with a showcase of handcrafts , fine art and regional cuisine . With more than 2,800 artisans from all the state ’ s 55 counties , Tamarack has greeted millions of visitors while offering unique Appalachian goods for more than 20 years .
“ The event was wonderful , and I loved being able to walk around and be immersed in Appalachian culture while getting to talk to everyone from the community ,” says Courtney McCoy , managing partner for Authentic Hatfield & McCoy Families Development LLC .
The event was designed to bring together professionals , innovators and leaders from all industries to spark conversations and inspire collaboration in the area .
“ The evening was fantastic . There were plentiful networking opportunities , and I was able to talk to several people I ’ ve not seen in a year and a half ,” says Debrina Williams , executive director of the Hatfield McCoy Convention & Visitors Bureau . “ Plus , the Tamarack is a fabulous place to stroll through .”
West Virginia ’ s southern coalfields have much to offer , but her people are the area ’ s crowning jewel . With unmatched hospitality and a community spirit built from hardship and hope , the southern coalfields offer a unique Appalachian experience that will engage , entertain , inspire and stick with those who visit . •
SPONSORED BY
McDonald
Land Company
40
WEST VIRGINIA EXECUTIVE