Take a family-friendly hike at Pocahontas State Park's Beaver Lake Trail.

One of the best hikes for children at Pocahontas State Park is Beaver Lake Trail. I love this walk with kids because there is so much to see, you can shorten it at any time, and it is all-terrain stroller-friendly. To access the trail, park at the Nature Center parking lot. From here, go behind the center, past the ampitheater. Then, you will follow the path all way down to the bridge. My kids love to play in the creek under the bridge. They especially love finding stones to through in the water. Beware - we have seen snakes in this area. From here, you can see the waterspill. It is such a peaceful spot. We often find a spot near here to picnic. While there are no picnic tables, you can find a small area and bring a blanket to sit on.

When your crew is done playing in the creek, head back over the bridge and make a left at the floating dock. Here, you can check out the lake, see water skaters and even frogs! We've often see frog eggs and tadpoles here, too! The entire walk is less than 2 miles round trip. I recommend packing bug spray and suncreen for this outing, and be sure to wear comfortable shoes. The restrooms are inside the Nature Center. This adventure usually takes us about two hours. It is a dog-friendly hike, so bring along your four-legged friend, too!

Consider attending a Caterpillar Club class (Thursdays at 10AM) before taking this hike. Alternatively, check out the playground after your hike. There is a covered picnic pavilion adjacent to the playground.