Ride Guide
The Blackwater Canyon Rail Trail drops roughly 1,300 feet through a dramatic gorge between Thomas and Hendricks, following the historic West Virginia Central & Pittsburgh Railway grade. The 10-mile downhill route winds past waterfalls, trailside coke ovens, and scattered remnants of the region’s timber and rail era, offering hikers and mountain bikers one of West Virginia’s most adventurous backcountry rail-trail experiences. Gentle grades, remote stretches, and rugged conditions give the ride a distinctly wild character within the Monongahela National Forest.
Although the corridor remains in generally good condition, it has not yet been formally adopted as a maintained system trail and receives limited active management from the U.S. Forest Service. Riders starting in Thomas should remember that the return trip climbs steadily back to town, unless a shuttle is arranged for a one-way descent.
A turnaround at Douglas Falls, about halfway down the canyon, makes for a great destination and avoids most of the climbing on the return. Those looking to extend the ride can continue onto the paved Allegheny Highlands Trail to Parsons, where restaurants, ice cream, and camping or lodging options await.
