WARNING:
GPS, Google Maps or MapQuest can get you to the town of Spencer to the NW of us, or to your exit off I-79 to the South of us. However, do not attempt to use them after that. You will only be directed down roads that will get you lost and/or reminiscent of the movies, “Moth Man” or “Deliverance.” Please follow the specifics on the map or written directions below. For “printable” versions, click on these:
Map to ACW (pdf)
Written Directions to ACW (pdf)
TIPS FOR SAFE & COMFORTABLE TRAVEL
FOR THE DRIVER: There is a driving etiquette followed by most West Virginians on narrow, single-lane paved, dirt, or gravel roads in the hollers. Those heading “in” should have right-of-way. Those heading “out” should pull over and stop, and at night, turn beams down to parking lights. However, there are hills and blind curves everywhere, so go slowly at all times, and be prepared to stop on your way in OR out. Road shoulders are narrow, and sometimes non-existent along streams. Rather than pull over too far and fall in the creek, best just to stop and allow the other driver to maneuver passed you.
FOR THE PASSENGER: I never got car-sick before I moved to West Virginia. Roads here are winding, narrow and hilly, and only get more-so off the interstates. Take medication before the state line (so it has time to kick-in), or follow these tips:
- Drive, sit in the front seat, or as close to the front as possible.
- Do not look out the side windows – only the front – and watch the yellow lines.
- Do not read in the vehicle. Lay down, close your eyes, or sleep through it.
- For some, eating a little something settles an empty, queasy stomach.
FROM WEST VIRGINIA STATE ROUTE 36:
Reset your trip meter to zero and be ready to start counting your miles.
NOTE: If you have not already taken your car-sickness medication, it’s too late now! In addition, the dogs are our doorbell and will alert us to your arrival. If you’d prefer to forgo the exuberance of our friendly Canine Welcome Wagon/Escort Service, please call now while your cell still has half a bar’s worth of a signal (304-927-5798). Mere human enthusiasm will never sufficiently express our level of excitement in having you here, but we will do our very best to greet you with affection comparable to jumping and slobbering.
- From 36 North, turn LEFT onto Otto Road.
From 36 South, turn RIGHT onto Otto Road.
- Follow Otto Road (single-lane paved) for 6 miles to the very end. Do not turn right at any fork even though the road gets rougher. Otto Rd. turns to gravel after 4 miles, at its junction with Clover Road.
- Otto Road dead ends into Orchard Run at a row of mailboxes under a big black walnut tree. Take a RIGHT onto Orchard Run (single-lane, gravel/dirt) designated by a homemade sign on a huge oak tree in front of you. Another homemade sign with arrow points left to roads Pink and Beech.
- Follow Orchard run for 2 miles until it forks at another sign and a blue and purple garbage bin. Do not follow the Orchard Run sign pointing to the right. Instead, follow the spur road straight and around the bend, designated by a CW Farm sign.
- The office address (my cabin) is 885, and the Shack’s address (for groups) is 889. Driveways are designated respectively with the numbers.
Individuals: Check in at the office on Turtle Hill (885). 4-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive are helpful in getting up the driveway (necessary in bad weather). You can still do it without, but give yourself a bit of a running start and keep even pressure on the gas pedal, otherwise, you’ll spin on the gravel. Meanwhile, keep a lookout for chickens and dogs. If you prefer not to try it, park on the road at the bottom and walk up the hill. You will not be blocking traffic.
Service/Retreat Groups: Follow the spur til the sign says, “STOP” and park on the road at the bottom of the Shack’s driveway (889). You will not be blocking traffic. I will lead you back to the Tool Box to drop off your things, and help you get turned around.
