What do you buy for the dude on your list who loves beer? This isn’t a trick question—it’s obviously beer. But maybe this year you want to branch out and find those suds-loving connoisseurs something different—just not too different. With the holidays looming large on the calendar, we went looking for the best beer-related gifts. From reading materials to glassware to one of the world’s biggest beer events, here are the best gifts for beer lovers at a range of prices. Just pick one of these, throw in a six-pack, and cross that beerhead off your list.
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1. The Book of Hops
When it comes to beer, hops are huge. They add stability to the brew, as well as bitterness and aroma. Depending on the hops, they can add flavors such as grapefruit, melon, honey, and pine. This is your chance to help your favorite beer lover gain a better understanding of a principle beer ingredient that’s way more interesting than literature on malt, water, or yeast. Author Dan DiSorbo profiles 50 of the world’s varieties of hops in this fully-illustrated guide to all things hops. And if the reader gets thirsty from reading, the book also includes hand-picked craft beer recommendations.
Rye whiskies are finally getting their due after being an afterthought to the more popular bourbon bottles dominating the American whiskey scene. Now legendary distiller George Dickel has once again merged one of their ryes with another from family distiller Leopold Bros. Last year they produced one that garnered much acclaim. Their latest Collaboration Blend offers yet another excellent and smooth rye perfect for mixing up winter cocktails.
George Dickel whiskey—which has been an institution since the company started in 1850 in Cascade Hollow, TN—has long championed the rye variation after it died out following Prohibition. And Leopold Bros.—which started in Michigan in 1996 and now operates out of Colorado—has long adhered to traditional, pre-Prohibition distilling techniques and a dedication to using fresh, local, and sustainable practices and ingredients.
A year after their union created an award-winning blend, this November’s launch mixes Leopold Bros’ smooth Three Chamber Rye with George Dickel’s historically correct column still rye for another heavy-bodied, 100 proof rye whiskey that’s perfect for crafting classic cocktails like the Manhattan or Whiskey Sour.
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“The George Dickel x Leopold Bros Collaboration Blend was founded on our friendship and mutual admiration for each other as distillers,” says Nicole Austin, general manager and distiller at Cascade Hollow Distilling Co. “This is such a meaningful product to us both, and we have been overwhelmed by the initial reception.”
“Working with [founder] Todd Leopold and his team to create this blend is a once-in-a-career moment for me,” adds Austin. “I’m particularly excited we’re able to give whisky drinkers another chance to taste a piece of history while establishing a long-term partnership between George Dickel and Leopold Bros.”
The Collaboration Blend is described by the team as having a floral nose of lavender, elderflower, and rose that is balanced by sweet hints of maple syrup, marshmallow, and cocoa. Rosewater, blackberries, caramel, lavender, fig, and citrus flavors show up on the palate, which is finished with a combination tea, honey, and cocoa.
Knife brands have ramped up customization options to their lineups over the last few years—turning quality knives (which look like everyone else’s) into even better ones that offer the sort of added flair otherwise reserved for far pricier blades. It was only a matter of time before multi-tools got the same treatment. Case in point—Gerber’s popular Center-Drive multi-tool has just been added to the revered brand’s custom build site.
The Center-Drive, which debuted in 2017, is a uniquely designed multi-tool featuring a spring-loaded, sliding pair of plier jaws that makes its tools accessible from the outside—rather than swinging open to expose them from the inside. A magnetic driver tool on the same center axis as the multi-tool itself functions like a regular bit or screwdriver. The Center-Drive’s 14 functions are all designed to operate the same way each separate, dedicated tool works in real life.
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The multi-tool also features a user-friendly opening system that only requires one thumb to access its tools. They include rotatable carbide wire cutters and strippers, a full-size blade along with a serrated blade, pry bar with nail puller, and fabric sheath.
Instead of just the same old black and silver color scheme, Gerber now offers nine unique color options and a ton of different laser engravings for a super-personal touch. In an industry-first move, the brand also lets you customize the tools included on your Center-Drive to better match your day-to-day needs—offering a choice between four available tool packs (in a silver or black finish).
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“Hard-working men and women choose the Center-Drive every day to solve problems, and now their multi-tool can also reflect their personal style,” said Keith Carrato, vice president of brand and product at Gerber. “Not only that, they’ll also be able to choose the specific tool packs they need through Gerber Custom, making the Center-Drive even more useful for their specific needs.”
The Center-Drive is made in the U.S. and manufactured and assembled in Portland, OR, by actual knife and tool craftspeople. Prices start at $155 for the custom version, and take about 15 days to ship.
If you’re a serious tequila lover, your bar cart is adequately stocked with the agave spirit’s holy trinity: blanco, reposado, and añejo. But there’s an emerging category that’s piquing the curiosity of spirits enthusiasts: Cristalino, an aged tequila that’s filtered to remove the amber hue so that it looks like a crystal-clear blanco, but sips (and smells) like an añejo. These bottles pack deceptive amounts of depth.
Gran Centenario has become the latest brand to debut an ultra-smooth cristalino, which is the fastest-growing tequila category in the United States. With hints of baked apple and oak imparted from a brandy cask, Gran Centenario Cristalino (suggested retail, $79.99 for a 750ml bottle) is an especially good bottle to have on hand over Thanksgiving for sipping and remaking classic cocktails.
Gran Centenario uses añejo and extra añejo tequilas for its cristalino expression, which is a first for the historic family portfolio. The blended aged tequilas are finished in Calvados (apple brandy) casks for a minimum of two months. Traditionally, cristalinos are filtered through activated charcoal to strip away color, but Gran Centenario filters its liquid with Mexican silver to give it flawless clarity without altering the taste.
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On the nose, the cristalino has sweet agave and caramel aromas with a touch of vanilla, oak, and apple. Tasting notes include cooked agave with hints of vanilla beans, baked apple, and oak. It’s bottled at 40% ABV.
“The hints of baked apple in this Gran Centenario Cristalino Tequila expression are a pleasant surprise, as it’s not a flavor we often encounter in tequila,” says Gran Centenario’s brand ambassador and head of advocacy, Jaime Salas.
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He recommends drinking the cristalino neat or on the rocks with a lime twist to enhance the taste profile. But the beauty of the cristalino style of tequilas, he says, is their versatility. Given Gran Centenario Cristalino’s bright notes, it works well in refreshing cocktails like highballs with a seasoned twist, and can also be enjoyed in a more spirit-forward remake of an Old Fashioned—or this clearly inspired tequila Negroni.
Gran Centenario Cristalino Tequila Clear Negroni
Ingredients:
2 oz Gran Centenario Cristalino Tequila
0.75 oz Lillet Blanc
0.25 oz ginger liqueur
Garnish: lime peel
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice.
Stir and pour into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with lime peel.
The Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, largely regarded as one of the most anticipated annual releases in the whiskey world, is back this year with its full, five-bottle roster of rare bourbon and rye whiskeys. All five whiskeys in the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (commonly abbreviated as BTAC) are returning—including William Larue Weller, Thomas H. Handy, Eagle Rare, Sazerac, and George T. Stagg.
As we reported last year, Buffalo Trace temporarily discontinued the George T. Stagg release because the available whiskeys “did not meet the distillery’s standards for the Stagg brand.” That’s a really fluffy way of saying that the available supply of whiskey was either too old or too young to make a batch.
This happens. In fact, it happens across the entire whiskey industry. Brands like Booker’s Bourbon from Jim Beam will sometimes release fewer batches throughout the year due to fluctuations in ready-to-go supply. Utah’s High West brand and Kentucky’s Michter’s have both altered the releases (and scales) of limited edition products in recent years for similar reasons.
But Buffalo Trace brought Stagg back this year with a vengeance. The 2022 George T. Stagg release is bottled at the highest proof since 2016—an “is this going to harm my teeth or something” 138.7 proof, or 69.35 ABV.
All of the whiskeys in this collection, including George T. Stagg, are mostly bottled as uncut and unfiltered whiskeys, meaning no water has been added, and no chill filtration has been employed. Aside from drinking right out of the barrels, this is as close as most people get to drinking it straight from the source.
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George T. Stagg Bourbon
For two decades, George T. Stagg Bourbon (the elder, rarer version of Stagg, Jr.) has been a heavy hitter in final proof, and this year’s 138.7 is a hard-hitting return after a skipped 2021 season. All barrels for this year’s batch were distilled in Spring 2007, aged in Warehouse K, and were 15 years and 5 months old at bottling.
George T. Stagg has aromas of pecan and chocolate sauce, and flavors of baking cherry pie, vanilla, and baking spices, with a dark, rich finish of black coffee, molasses, and oak.
William Larue Weller famously shares its mash bill with the Pappy Van Winkle line of wheated bourbons. As a result, the many accolades this bottle has received over the years aren’t that surprising. Distilled 12 years ago in spring 2010, the barrels for this year’s 124.7 proof batch rested in three warehouses: C, K, and N.
The 2022 William Larue Weller bourbon is said to have aromas of toasted coconut, caramel, and butterscotch. On the palate, you’ll discover flavors of dark cherry, molasses, and mint. The finish of leather, nutmeg, vanilla, and toffee is full-bodied.
The award-winning Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye has a list of accolades almost as long as its name. This year’s release is a record-setting proof above 130—its highest proof in a decade.
Distilled in spring 2016, the high-proof rye used for this release aged in three houses: I, L, and M. A floral nose of marmalade, meringue, and anise previews the confected flavors of baking spices, dark chocolate, and orange peel, according to the distillery. The finish is long, sweet, and spicy, with flavors of candied orange, praline, and cinnamon. It’s 130.9 proof,—the highest proof for this whiskey since 2012.
Eagle Rare’s older brother has gone through some changes in recent years, including an increase in proof to 101 for its impressive 17-year age statement. All of these bourbons have won awards, of course, but last year’s release won the Chairman’s Trophy at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge this year.
The barrels for this whiskey were all housed in warehouses H, K, and L before being combined and proofed down to 101. Buffalo Trace describes a nose of oak, chocolate-covered cherries, and tobacco, flavors of caramel, vanilla bean, and dark chocolate, with a finish of butterscotch, baking spices, and vanilla.
Sazerac Rye may be the least revered of all the names on this list, but therein lies the best argument for calling this the “hidden gem” of the collection. All the whiskey used for this year’s 90 proof batch was distilled in the spring of 2003 or 2004 (making some of the juice actually 19 years old). Those barrels were aged in warehouses K, M, and P.
Buffalo Trace describes orange peel, lemon zest, and molasses on a citrusy-sweet nose. Sazerac Rye 18 is bold with flavors of black pepper, coriander, and maple syrup, with an herbal finish of oak, mint, and tobacco leaf.
Curiously, there is yet again no price increase on any of these bottles for 2022. Buffalo Trace has been hesitant to raise most of their prices in recent years, even as other major Kentucky distilleries have increased prices on rarer stock.
The $99 per bottle price across the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection has been stable for several years. Prices have only gone up about $30 in the last decade. The whole collection was priced at just $70 per bottle back in 2012.
Of course, between the clambering free market for these bottles and the after-market price hikes, those 2012 bottles now fetch their retail prices dozens of times over. And it’s unlikely that you’ll see this year’s BTAC at retail prices. If you do, buy a lottery ticket the same day.
BTAC was created in 2002, making this the 20th anniversary of the collection. Getting your hands on every release could likely cost six figures, so we’re not going to tell you that this is a collection you should try and acquire retroactively. This year’s releases will prove enough of a challenge—and reward—to get your hands on.
Legendary whisky distillery The Macallan has announced two limited edition single malt whiskies created entirely around the idea of pairing whisky with coffee. The Macallan Harmony Collection’s two newest bottles—”Inspired by Intense Arabica” and “Smooth Arabica”—are a pair of never-before-seen Macallan whiskies designed with the help of an international team of coffee experts from around the world.
Of course, there’s a good story behind these bottlings. It began with Macallan Whisky Maker Steven Bremner bringing world renowned coffee experts to the Macallan Estate for an immersive master class. The cast included Ethiopian coffee grower Kenean Asefa Dukamo, Scottish coffee roaster Lisa Lawson, American barista Andrea Allen, UK-based coffee artist Dhan Tamang, and coffee historian Professor Jonathan Morris.
It was from this meeting that these two bottles were eventually created—and from an appreciation that coffee and whisky actually share many traits: Both beverages require careful preparation of their main ingredients; toasty, dark flavors are common in both great coffee and great whisky; and at least insofar as Irish coffee is concerned, they can get along very nicely in the same glass.
Macallan has plenty of stock to play with for projects like this, and even though the distillery is largely known for its European sherry finishes, its use of American oak barrels seasoned with sherry adds brightness and sweetness to a carefully crafted dram. Bremner selected both American and European oak casks for these whiskies.
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“I sought out intense notes in The Macallan’s traditional sherry-seasoned European oak casks that would offer the rich and satisfying elements of coffee—while the influence of sherry-seasoned American oak casks adds sweeter and softer vanilla notes for a balanced and rounded experience,” Bremner explains. “Exploring the world of coffee with our masters in the industry was both an education and an inspiration,” he adds, in an official statement. “There are many parallels between the approach to creating incomparable whisky and coffee. Each requires unique skills and craftsmanship to achieve depth and complexity of taste and both worlds aim to deliver an extraordinary consumption experience.”
Macallan has done it—not just once, but twice with this newest release.
Intense Arabica is said to have a crema color, with aromas of tiramisu, cappuccino, gingerbread and raisins, and hints of sweet oak and vanilla. On the palate, dark espresso and several of those aromatic notes mix with blackberry and nuts, before a long, balanced, and sweet dark roast finish.
Smooth Arabica, meanwhile, has a toffee color, and notes from the distillery describe aromas of hazelnut, dark cherry, vanilla, oak, and ground coffee. On the palate, it has flavors of an Americano, with hints of raisins, cherries, soft spices, and vanilla. The finish is sweet and creamy, with an upfront hit of coffee bean.
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These are the third and fourth bottles in Macallan’s Harmony Collection, and the first to address coffee. The original release, Macallan Harmony Collection Rich Cacao, was inspired in a similar manner by the world of chocolate. It was followed earlier this year by “Fine Cacao.”
Everything is connected to the world of coffee for these two latest whisky releases, right down to the box they come in. The packaging for these bottles includes a presentation box made from repurposed coffee bean husks by paper expert Michele Posocco from Italian paper mill Favini.
Intense Arabica is released at 44 percent ABV, while Smooth Arabica is bottled at a lower ABV of 40 percent. For around $185 (depending on taxes and other variables), both whiskies are certainly in today’s “affordable” category.
However, tracking them down may require a bit of extra work. Intense Arabica enters the U.S. market in November. As for Smooth Arabica, it’s available exclusively in some duty free shops and airport Macallan Boutiques next month.
So, yes, you may need both types of a “red eye” to get your hands on these coffee-inspired single malts. We do suspect though that with the right barista, you’ll end up with one hell of a boilermaker.
This article was produced in partnership with West Virginia Tourism.
While West Virginia is a true four-season destination, there’s no denying the pure magic of a winter escape in the Mountain State. Majestic highland overlooks. Snow-covered forests. Roaring waterfalls frozen in place. It all comes together to create a truly wild and wonderful winter utopia.
From the powdery slopes to snow-dusted hiking trails, West Virginia transforms into an unspoiled outdoor playground in the winter months, and it’s yours to explore. As the temperature begins to dip and the flurries start to fall, consider it your sign to hit the road. All you need to do is pack up your skis, grab your snowsuit, and throw your hiking boots in the trunk.
Cozy log cabins, rustic inns, lavish lodges, and top-notch ski resorts await. To get you started, we’ve pulled together some of our favorite winter getaways in Almost Heaven. And for even more vacation inspiration, grab a free digital travel guide or sign up to get insider tips and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox all season long.
1. Country Road Cabins
West Virginia’s New River Gorge, America’s newest national park, has become one of the most buzzed-about regions in the U.S., but Country Road Cabins has managed to stay relatively under-the-radar. It’s located in Hico, a wooded hideaway with a population that hovers around 200 people. It’s the perfect place to plan a digital detox.
Open year-round, this secluded compound features 23 standalone retreats, ranging from deluxe log cabins and luxurious yurts to tricked-out treehouses and glamping tents. But no matter the style, each unit comes with a fully equipped kitchen, a spacious deck, and a private hot tub. Ideal for group getaways, romantic rendezvous, and even solo adventures, Country Road Cabins offers a well-appointed basecamp to explore all the nearby hot spots.
Hiking Highlight: Country Road Cabins is situated less than seven miles from New River Gorge National Park and Preserve—a hiker’s paradise with nearly 100 miles of trails to explore. But of all the park’s winding paths, don’t miss Endless Wall Trail. The renowned three-mile loop cuts through dense forests and crosses frozen creeks while zigzagging along sky-high sandstone cliffs. Don’t miss the overlook at Diamond Point to get a glimpse of the New River nearly 1,000 feet below.
2. Log House Homestead B&B
Nestled off the beaten path and down a quiet country road, Log House Homestead B&B is tucked away in the snowy hills of the Mid-Ohio Valley. This hand-hewn log cabin is a masterful representation of West Virginia’s rich cultural heritage. While the architecture and furnishings harken back to the 1820s, the thoughtful amenities include all the modern-day touches you’d expect in the 21st century.
Enchanting any time of year, the two-story bed and breakfast is especially appealing during the winter months. With icicles tracing the roofline and snowflakes dropping from the sky, the rural setting provides a truly serene escape. You won’t find Wi-Fi, flatscreens, or even a telephone inside, but you will appreciate details like board and batten walnut doors, handmade tin wall sconces, and a large stone-faced fireplace. Plus, guests get to fuel up for the day ahead with a hearty country breakfast.
Hiking Highlight: Located near North Bend State Park, be sure to check out the North Bend Rail Trail. This 72-mile trek follows a former B&O Railroad corridor, snaking through several tunnels along the way. The park boasts 14 additional hiking trails that stretch more than 26 miles and vary in degree of difficulty.
Timberline Mountain offers action-packed slopes and epic snowmaking capabilities.Courtesy Image
3. Timberline Mountain
For those in need of a full-throttle winter wonderland, look no further than Timberline Mountain. The popular ski area can be found in Canaan Valley and is known for its action-packed slopes and epic snowmaking capabilities. A recent $10 million renovation brought upgrades like new chairlifts and other capital improvements. From skiing and snowboarding on groomers to exploring the mountain’s adrenaline-fueled terrain parks, there’s something for everyone.
Make the most of your visit by crashing at the 20-room Timberline Hotel. The quintessential mountain property is open year-round but fills up in the winter when it operates as a ski-in, ski-out lodge. Other nearby options include the 46-room Alpine Lodge (located across from Blackwater Falls State Park) and the effortlessly cool Billy Motel (nestled in the Allegheny Highlands).
Hiking Highlight: You can drive to Blackwater Falls State Park from Timberline Mountain in about 15 minutes. Famous for its 57-foot, amber-tinted cascade, the park also offers more than 20 miles of hiking trails. To witness the namesake waterfall frozen solid, hit the Blackwater Falls Boardwalk Trail. Lindy Point Trail is another quick trip, and it offers views from 3,000 feet above the Blackwater Canyon. For a more challenging route, set off on the Balanced Rock Trail, which connects with Shay Trace and Red Spruce Trails.
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4. Hillbrook Inn & Spa
For a more laid-back respite, pack your bags and head to charming Charles Town. An inviting blend of the past and present, this historic pocket is bursting with classic Americana. Locally owned shops and restaurants, live thoroughbred racing, bustling casinos, and cultural attractions like the Old Opera House Theatre Company keep visitors entertained throughout the year.
Book a room at the historic Hilbrook Inn & Spa. Built in the 1920s on a plot of land once owned by George Washington, this notable hideaway features 19 guest suites spread across five properties. The antique-adorned Main House will remind you of a European country manor, while the newly renovated Cottage Suites will make for a picturesque winter stay.
Hiking Highlight: Although Charles Town is full of things to do, nearby attractions like the 63-acre Cool Spring Nature Preserve and Harpers Ferry also lure visitors. Carve out some time to check out the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, which serves as the Appalachian Trail’s official headquarters. Four miles of the world-famous route pass through historic Harpers Ferry—a perfect winter day hike.
The dog-friendly cabins at Lost River Vacations are nestled deep in the woods.Courtesy Image
5. Lost River Vacations
Looking to unplug and immerse yourself in nature? Venture deep into the expansive woodlands near Mathias, WV, and snag one of the stylish tiny house rentals at Lost River Vacations. Situated on 22 serene acres, the dog-friendly units are surrounded by the beautiful, forested landscapes Almost Heaven is known for. There are also several hiking trails plus a nine-hole disc golf course, a game library, and a Tesla charger located onsite.
Lost River Vacations launched on Kickstarter in 2018 and raised $30,000 in just 30 days. The project also has an admirable mission: to reframe the general perception of deaf people and showcase the extraordinary talents of the deaf community. The property is 100-percent deaf-owned. Each tiny home was constructed by deaf craftspeople, the artwork on display was created by deaf artists, the website and logo were built by deaf designers, and even the site imagery was captured by deaf photographers.
Hiking Highlight: Lost River Vacations is just a stone’s throw from Lost River State Park. Continuing the theme of serenity, this peaceful park covers nearly 4,000 secluded acres with 23 miles of trails. Follow the 3.5-mile Millers Rock Trail up to the Cranny Crow overlook. Sitting at an elevation of 3,200 feet, it offers sweeping panoramas of five different counties stretching out below.
6. North Fork Mountain Inn
Sitting among the rolling hills of the Potomac Highlands, the North Fork Mountain Inn is located adjacent to the Monongahela National Forest. It’s a seriously handsome outpost blessed with mesmerizing mountain views. The rustic interiors are marked by rich wood paneling, stone fireplaces, and standalone soaking tubs.
The property has a range of different room and suite styles, plus an entire cabin for any guests who desire a little more privacy. Here, dining is another highlight. From hearty breakfasts and gourmet picnics to fine dining and multi-course meals, you’ll never go hungry at the North Fork Mountain Inn.
Hiking Highlight: Encompassing a massive plot of nearly one million protected acres, the Monongahela National Forest is teeming with adventurous recreation. The 17.7-mile out-and-back North Fork Mountain Trail runs all the way from Route 33 northeast up to Route 28 before reconnecting to Route 33. The views are truly breathtaking as you traverse the spine of North Fork Mountain.
In addition to ski runs, Winterplace is also home to the largest snow tubing park in the state.
7. Winterplace Ski Resort
Ranked one of the best places to learn to ski in the southeast, Winterplace Ski Resort is the perfect place for beginners looking to learn the ropes—but it also offers challenging trails for anyone focused on improving their skills. With 27 runs sprawling across more than 90 acres of mountainous terrain, Winterplace offers outdoor fun for everyone. It’s also home to the largest snow tubing park in the entire state.
For nonstop snowbound adventures, reserve one of the Cabins at Winterplace. The basic, bunk-bed style cabins can accommodate up to 15 people, making them ideal for your next group getaway. You can even keep an eye on real-time conditions this winter by pulling up the Mountainhouse Cam live feed.
Hiking Highlight:Camp Creek State Park and Forest is just a 15-minute drive from Winterplace Ski Resort. Explore more than 33 miles of scenic hiking trails that glimmer with every winter flurry. There are 15 trails to pick from, but popular routes include the moderate two-mile Neely Knob Road and Trail and the difficult Piney Ridge Trail.
The complex covers roughly 200 acres with five individual cabins, each touting its own personality. They’re all equipped with everything you’d need for a cozy winter retreat plus a few extra perks, like Wi-Fi and log-burning fireplaces. Don’t forget to explore the four miles of on-site trails ideal for hiking, biking, or horseback riding.
Hiking Highlight: The Cranberry Glades Botanical Area is a unique spot to spend some time immersed in the great outdoors. This designated spot protects the largest area of cranberry bogs in West Virginia. In the winter, trek across the wooden boardwalk to see this one-of-a-kind wonder draped in fresh snowfall.
In the winter, Pipestem Resort State Park is a haven for cross-country skiing.Courtesy Image
9. Pipestem Resort State Park
Pipestem Resort State Park is a beloved family-friendly destination that draws attention in any season. Sitting along the rim of the Bluestone River Gorge, Pipestem offers thrilling pursuits for every type of adventurer. Some standouts include exhilarating zipline tours, guided trout fishing trips, mountain bike excursions, paddleboarding excursions, and more. In the winter, the park comes alive with cross-country skiers and sledders alike.
The park offers 26 fully furnished Vacation Cabin Rentals stocked with linens, kitchen utensils and appliances, central heat, high-speed internet, and other useful amenities. Two-, three-, and four-bedroom configurations are also available. If a mountain lodge is more your style, the park has two options to choose from. The McKeever Lodge boasts 111 guest rooms with snow-capped mountain vistas, while the Mountain Creek Lodge has a more intimate feel with just 30 rooms and sweeping Bluestone River views.
Hiking Highlight: Hiking is a hit all year long at Pipestem Resort State Park. From leisurely loops to more challenging routes, there are 20 different hiking trails that weave through the park. The 2.2-mile Lakeshore Trail encircles Long Branch Lake and offers one of the most scenic winter trails in the area.
10. Buffalo Trail Cabins
Catering to ATV enthusiasts, Buffalo Trail Cabins is located in Bluefield, just minutes from the Pocahontas Trailhead of the iconic Hatfield-McCoy Trail System. But even if you’re not trying to zip around on four wheels, this wooded hideaway is great for a winter vacation.
Whatever style you’re searching for, you’ll find it here. There’s an impressive collection of cozy cabins, elevated treehouses, and even a mountain view yurt. The property also boasts multiple RV hookup sites if that’s more your speed. Just make sure to swing by the restaurant and brewery during your stay. Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat or an adventurous guys’ getaway, Buffalo Trail Cabins has you covered.
Hiking Highlight:Pinnacle Rock State Park is just a five-minute drive away. Spread across nearly 400 acres, its namesake is a massive sandstone formation that soars 3,100 feet tall. Six moderate trails cut through the park, but the star of the show is Pinnacle Rock Overlook. From the top, enjoy unobstructed views of the snow-dappled forest below.
This article was produced in partnership with Gladiator
The inevitable truth of having an active life where you and your family enjoy sports and the outdoors, and one where you engage in lots of DIY hobbies like woodworking and crafts, is that you will accumulate a lot of stuff. There’s no way to avoid the accumulation of gear needed to participate in the outdoor activities you gravitate toward—cycling, fishing, skiing/snowboarding, surfing, backpacking, basketball, tennis…the list goes on.
And forget about trying to successfully gather and organize everything you need to work on a classic car or motorcycle, or craft a live-edge coffee table. It’s not going to happen without some kind of storage system, like the premium, durable, good-looking solutions from Gladiator.
To get started though, you need to analyze your garage or storage area, says Blake Bancroft, Gladiator brand and e-commerce manager at Whirlpool Corporation. “Consider overall space, wall space, and accessibility,” he says. “It’s about maximizing the space you already have.”
Bringing items off the floor with shelving and overhead storage is an easy way to get started. Then, think about how you can utilize your wall space more efficiently by putting up a wall organization system. Finally, he says, consider accessibility: What items do you need to have access to every day versus infrequently used stuff? After you address those key factors, it’s easy to dial in a solution that works for you.
Organize Your Sporting Life
Having a cluttered, jumbled pile of sports and outdoor gear in the garage, all hanging haphazardly on hooks and nails in the drywall, balanced precariously on mismatched shelving, or just unceremoniously dumped on the ground is not only a pain to navigate when it’s time to get out and have fun, it looks bad.
“Adding rack shelving is a common starting point for many people,” says Bancroft. “It gets items off the ground and you can typically store lots of variations of gear.” Thankfully, Gladiator has multiple options and tips to turn that mountain of mess into an organized, clean, and streamlined assortment of essential gear.
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Dividing sports and recreation gear is an easy task because most are naturally separated by season. You can rotate them out as the seasons change, storing items that aren’t in play at the moment on something like an Overhead GearLoft Storage Rack or GearLoft Shelf, or tossing the gear in storage bins that can be tucked away on the Heavy Duty Racks. The racks and shelves come in multiple sizes depending on how much gear you need to stow and the four adjustable shelves can be easily arranged at various heights to suit your storage needs.
After you’ve figured out what needs to go where according to what season you’re in, make an “active” wall, or a spot where the things you do often, like taking the dog for a walk or going for a bike ride, are easily accessible. For a storage solution to organize the gear for those activities, choose a solution like a GearWall Panel or GearTrack Channels. These easy-to-install wall hanging solutions allow you to mount a multitude of fast-access organization options from hooks and baskets to shelves and even cabinets so your most-used items are always within reach when heading out the door. And for kids’ stuff, mount bins closer to the floor so they can also grab-and-go or easily put things back when playtime is over.
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Another gear category that often gets crammed in closets, taking up precious space, is apparel. Coats, fleeces, hats, gloves, and sports apparel can easily be stored in the garage with something like the Ready-to-Assemble All-Season GearCloset, which has a sturdy hanging rod inside for simple stowing. For organizing the footwear that comes with sports and outdoor recreation, check out the Ready-to-Assemble Storage Shoe Bench and the Entryway GearTrack Pack for arranging often-used apparel like seasonal jackets or umbrellas.
Unify Your DIY Tools
If you’re the home handyman or go-to mechanic for projects big and small, there’s nothing more frustrating than looking for a specific tool and not being able to find it. A little tool box, one big workbench, and a haphazardly hung peg board is not going to cut it if you want to get serious about tool organization. Not only will getting your DIY gear in order help you complete projects, you’ll also end up enjoying the process more, and avoid doubling (or tripling) up on tools or supplies that are most likely hidden behind a dusty cardboard box full of old spray paint cans.
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It’s a good idea to reassess your space and find the ideal place to create a work area. Avoid heavily trafficked areas and use out-of-the-way spots like far corners of the garage that have easy access to electrical outlets, places to hang or add lights, and even plumbing lines and a drain, if applicable.
Then, think of what kinds of projects you’re most likely to take on. For example, if you’ll be rebuilding a motorcycle engine, go for a heavy-duty option like the 8′ Adjustable Height Hardwood Workbench and Premier Tall GearBox. If you want to do a lot of repairs and maintenance on equipment in the garage, maybe something more mobile, like the Modular GearDrawer and 3′ Mobile Workstation, would be a good solution.
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Your tools are what you need to get a job done right, and things like cordless drills and saws aren’t cheap so it’s a good idea to invest in a secure storage solution like the Ready-to-Asssemble Mobile Storage Cabinet. This hefty, spacious cabinet has plenty of room to put away circular saws, drills, hand planers, belt sanders, and much more while also giving you the ability to lock them up.
For smaller-scale projects—like arts and crafts or repairing and building electronics—where you need some storage but nothing heavy duty, along with a small work space to lay things out, the Ready-To-Assemble Foldaway Workstation is an excellent and very versatile option. The 2-Drawer Utility Cart is another way to get a good-size work surface that is also mobile and can be used in conjunction with the Workstation to stay organized while working on smaller projects.
Store Smart With Gladiator
Getting organized is not only good for productivity, it’s also great for your mental health. There’s nothing like coming into a space that was formerly filled with piles of gear and tools, and finding it clean and organized. You get a strong feeling of pride and Gladiator can make that happen for you.
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Plus, Gladiator’s products are designed so you can start small if you’re not planning a full garage rehab, says Bancroft. “You can add on over time or as your needs change, all while having the confidence that any products you add on, whether it’s cabinets, workbenches, tool storage, or wall organization, will be cohesive from a look and design perspective, but also have the upstanding strength, quality, and functionality we’re known for.”
People are typically solving for their organization needs today, but don’t realize those needs can oftentimes change. Investing in storage and organization that allow you to adapt to your changing needs will make a huge difference in the long run.
And, no matter what stage you’re at in your overhaul, you can contact Gladiator Pros who can provide garage storage, organization, and product advice.
Sharing gift guide ideas for your mom, grandma, aunt, SIL, bestie, or for yourself!
I’m calling it. The holiday season is officially here and I’m so ready for it! Bring on the family fun, delicious food, and festive parties. Gift-wise, I’m trying to get my act together EARLY this year. My goal is to have everything ordered by Cyber Monday, wrapped that week, and then I can kick back, relax and enjoy the holiday season with the fam. I wanted to share gift guides early this year in case you have similar goals this season!
I’m starting the 2022 Holiday Gift Guide party with one of my favorite gift guides: for Her! <— it’s also the easiest to put together!
These are ideas for your fitness-loving friends, the foodies, the BFFs, for your mom, MIL or nana, for the new moms out there, plus stocking stuffers and under $40 finds!
2021 Holiday Gift Guide for Her
Gifts for the fitness fanatic:
– A sauna blanket or PEMF Go Mat. My liiiiiiiiiiiife and two of my very favorite things. I use the Go Mat daily for meditation, and use the sauna blanket 2-3 times per week and it feels amaaaaazing. I sleep so well and it makes my skin glow. Use FITNESSISTA15 for 15% off HigherDOSE faves.
– A new yoga mat and mat towel. I’ve had my Manduka mat for over 10 years and it’s still my favorite one.
– This gorgeous non-toxic pan <— my link gives you $20 off your first order. I use the Always Pan almost daily and it still looks great, and also love the Always Pot.
– These gripper slippers! I have a pair from years ago and wear them constantly during the chilly months.
For the new mama:
– A Sakara delivery! These meals are so fresh and beautiful, and will feel like such a wonderful gift for a sleep-deprived mama. She’ll be able to enjoy nourishing and beautiful meals she didn’t have to cook herself. Click here and use XOGINAH for 20% off meal delivery and clean boutique items.
– An offer to come over and help her out with anything she might need (playing with older kids, holding the baby while she takes a shower or stares at the wall, help with errands or grocery pickup)… and actually do it 🙂
Stocking stuffers and under $40 finds:
– Organifi Gold. Stack my code FITNESSISTA with current promos for an extra 20% off! I also use the green and red juice and the Harmony on a regular basis.
– Beauty drops (XOGINAH for 20% off). I love these mineral drops in my water. They’re completely tasteless and are a great way to boost back minerals in water that may have been depleted.
– Makeup eraser. These things are a GAMECHANGER and really do remove makeup extremely well, even heavy eye makeup. I have some mini ones that I stash in my bag when I travel, too.
– Make a grazing box and drop it off on her doorstep with a bottle of wine!
So tell me friends: what are you gifting for the ladies in your family and your BFFs? What’s on your personal wish list this year?
xo
Gina
*Note: none of my gift guides are sponsored, and companies are not able to purchase spots on my gift guides. These are all items I curated myself and genuinely think they’d make awesome gifts for someone you love. Affiliate links are included, which don’t affect purchase price but enable me to earn a small kickback. I know a lot of creators share gift guides this time of year, so I’m sending a heartfelt thank you to those who shop my links and help me to support our family. <3
When it comes to holiday shopping, it’s easy to go big. Whether you’re browsing the latest gadgets, looking for a celebration-worthy whiskey, or searching for some well-made apparel, it can be tempting to think that bigger price tags correlate with better gifts. But that’s not necessarily the case, and this guide will help you uncover an important holiday shopping truth: There are lots of great men’s gifts under $50.
Whether you’re shopping for a friend or family member or just need to grab something for the annual office White Elephant gift exchange (do those still happen?), this guide will help you find something great. Bottom line: You don’t have to break the bank to show you care. Here, we’ve rounded up a bunch of small gifts, all under $50, for everyone you want to show a little love—or who may have slipped your mind—this holiday season.
