Seeing three darling little fawns while touring the mountains of West Virginia's Monongahela forest area in Randolph County, near the Pocahontas line is etched in my mind forever. It is not unusual to see deer in the area. In fact one must be forever on the lookout for them on these narrow 'high in the sky' roads that seemingly go on and on forever. The people living in the area are so inundated with deer that they must build high fences around their gardens in order to grow a few beans and cabbages.

Yet knowing they were deep in he woods all around, I was not prepared for these babies. Well, comparable to humans, and this being the first of July, I would say toddlers. I only briefly saw them as I glanced over a high mountainous area somewhere near the Elkspring Flyfishing Shop. The road we were traveling was gravel and was off the beaten path, yet being unfamiliar to the area cannot say exactly where I first glanced them.

"Three Bambi's, Look", I started to exclaim loudly but stopped short of alerting the driver to the sight below. One needs to keep one's eyes on the road while driving through this area. But it is an almost impossibility. The area is unbelievable. When we were safely on flatter ground and a good road, I told them of my find.

"Wonder where their mother was", I asked no one in particular. But whatever their fate, the beauty of seeing them, however briefly, is etched on my mind forever. As are views of the whole area. Everything about the mountainous terrain is breath taking and wondrous. It is no wonder the Snowshoe Resort, only forty miles away is so popular. Where else can one find such a vacation site. The resort sits at the top of the mountain, not at the bottom. And this, I am told, is only one of its unusual features.

So, I suggest, when skiing, to save money and to see more of the terrain of the Wild and Wonderful West Virginia terrain, check out the Monterville area and the lodge there. It is beautifully crafted and were you to do nothing else but stay there overnight, it will be worth the trip.

The caretakers are warm and friendly and will feed you well.(Elksprings Flyfishing Resort)Who knows, Bambi and his two sisters may be there to greet you. If not, look and see how the underground Elks spring is emerging from its miles long underground hideaway and sit spellbound as you gaze at the unusual wonders of 'almost heaven' West Virginia. An area, and an era seemingly almost forgotten.

Learn more about this author, EMSalem.
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