Two firsts, of which I hope there are many more, for the High Bridge Trail took place recently.

The longest pedestrian bridge in Virginia, High Bridge is perched 125 feet above the ground. The Appomattox River flows beneath the bridge and in every direction, you turn are breathtaking views of fields, trees and mountains. Simply put, mother nature at her finest awaits you.

On June 24, a young couple, Ervin and Lori Beekman, took their wedding vows on the bridge, and that evening several families enjoyed a camp out which included an “Owl Prowl,” a campfire off the bridge and a night hike. Events such as these are the moments that create memories that will last a lifetime.

Both of these firsts were made possible due the open-mindedness and willingness of the High Bridge Trail State Park management to make things happen. When Park Manager Daniel Jordan was approached by the Beekmans about the wedding back in February, the park created a package for small weddings. For just $300, they were able to reserve the bridge and host a small wedding.

The camp out on the High Bridge coincided with the Great American Campout — a campaign where state parks encourage people to interact with nature by camping. Jordan received enough requests to make the High Bridge camp out a success.

Six groups, including Erin and Chris Opperman and their four children, signed up for the event. What was the price for this amazing experience? You may be surprised to learn — I know I was — that the fee was only $35. 

Thank you, Jordan, for being open-minded and creating unique opportunities that encourage young, old and all those in between to get outdoors and enjoy all this beautiful park has to offer.

BETTY RAMSEY is publisher of The Farmville Herald and Farmville Newsmedia LLC. Her email address is Betty.Ramsey@FarmvilleHerald.com.