A sphagnum bog is a wetland that accumulates a lot of peat. Comprised of dead plant material that has partially decayed, peat often contains sphagnum moss. West Virginia happens to be home to hundreds of acres of sphagnum bogs, which are awe-inspiring to see in person. If you're planning a vacation in the eastern part of this state, here's why you should incorporate these mossy bogs into your trip.

Why Should You Visit the Sphagnum Bogs in West Virginia? 

1. They're Home to Unique Insects

Many species of insects ended their migratory patterns in West Virginia's bogs and brought seeds and pollen with them. As a result, the wetlands are filled with unique lifeforms that you can't find elsewhere in the state or many of the regions above the Mountain State. If you scan your surroundings diligently when walking down the boardwalk at Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, you may even see carnivorous plants, which are those that eat insects. 

2. They Date Back Thousands of Years 

The insects migrated toward what is now West Virginia when the glaciers started melting thousands of years ago. As such, it's reasonable to assume that many of the unique plants you see when strolling down the boardwalk are descended from seeds and pollen that arrived in the area more than 10,000 years prior. This aspect of their "living history" makes the sphagnum bogs an excursion like no other. 

3. They're Similar to Bogs Found in the Arctic

The bogs that make up the Cranberry Glades mimic those found in the arctic tundra. Called "muskegs" up north, these wetlands are home to yellow birch, red spruce, and hemlock trees. The ones in West Virginia also boast a host of wild animals, from white-tailed deer and red foxes to bald eagles and black bears. 

If you're hoping for a unique lodging experience during your vacation to the sphagnum bogs, turn to Jerico Bed/Breakfast & Pre-Civil War Log Cabins. Located in Pocahontas County, WV, they host guests in masterfully restored log cabins originally built in the 1800s. The property is situated just a short drive from a number of unforgettable sites, including both natural and historical excursions, making it the perfect place to spend your next vacation. Visit their website to learn more about their amenities, or call (888) 499-6241 to reserve a cabin.