Here is a film that will undoubtedly be enjoyed by the entire family. The narrator and host, Peter Schriemer, guides us through several scenic landscapes: woods, mountains, and rivers. Also, some rare and unusual animals are featured in the film. In addition, a lot of history is included which will be educational not only for young viewers, but also the adults.
The film starts with an animated sequence and then gets to the history – mentioning President Teddy Roosevelt and the 19,000 acres of the Allegheny in West Virginia. Canaan Valley is a national wildlife refuge, and the aerial shots of the lush greenery is impressive. Schriemer points out that it’s a wonderful place to experience remote peace and quiet. He also mentions the variety of opportunities, including hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the waterfalls.
Blackwater Falls State Park, established in 1937, features over 20 miles of hiking trails. Schriemer adds that Lindy Point Overlook is “incredible” and showcases “epic sunsets.” For viewers who greatly enjoy the beauty of the land which features hiking and bike trails, rivers, mountains, and salamanders (!), this one is for you.
There is a visitor’s center which includes a free trail map, water, high energy snacks, sunscreen, and you can bring your phone to take lots of photos of your impressive adventure. And there is a boardwalk which is ADA accessible.
Not only are the camera shots in this video remarkable, but the music is lovely, featuring a guitar at times, and Schriemer’s voice lends itself well to narration. And, just when you think you’ve seen a jaw-dropping view of the beauty of the woods or mountains, another camera shot will leave you even more impacted by its beauty.
Canaan Valley is bio-diversified, and more education is given, as we learn that the north environment is “cool and wet,” and scientists have called it, “A little bit of Canada gone astray.”
Kayaking is an option and just taking in the southern Appalachian Mountains will fill the eyes with awe-inspiring and jaw-dropping moments. Also included is the history behind the logging industry in Davis in the late 1800s.
In addition, there are segments on unique species such as the cheat mountain salamander. We learn they come out at night to search for food, such as insects, and they climb trees. A reservation watcher keeps an eye open to protect them so they will be around for generations to come. The Seneca rocks are another interesting bit of the nature of the local area which features oddly shaped boulders.
This is an area that can be enjoyed year round. We see Schriemer in a winter scene and he is all bundled up for winter activities such as skiing. He mentions singer-songwriter John Denver, and how he called West Virginia “almost heaven” in his hit song, “Country Roads.”
Birds and white-tailed deer, black bears, and turkeys are to be discovered, if one enjoys either just seeing them or hunting. And rabbits and squirrels are nearby as well. This wonderful national wildlife refuge is near other states, and a mere three and a half hours from Baltimore, Maryland.
Content Analysis: This is a wholesome film, and it features the beauty of God’s creation. There is a reference to the scriptures which mentions the land of Canaan, and how that West Virginians pronounce it in their own special dialect. Though not overtly a Christian film, God’s beauty of creation is clearly seen.
Think About It: There are some nice discussion points, including the scriptural reference to the land of Canaan, and how God’s creation of the Earth is so splendid in its beauty. The historical background will also prove educational to young ones.
The Dove Take: Your family will learn a few things if you watch this remarkable video, which is family friendly all the way! It’s Dove Approved for All Ages.
