Blackwater Falls State Park

Home to the 57-foot amber-colored Blackwater Falls, this state park offers waterfalls, hiking, paddling, and winter adventures in the heart of the Canaan Valley region.

At a Glance

Blackwater Falls State Park is home to the iconic 57-foot amber-colored waterfall that gives the park its name, drawing photographers and visitors year-round to West Virginia’s most famous cascade. The tannin-rich waters of the Blackwater River tumble over ancient sandstone, while 20 miles of trails, Pendleton Lake paddling, and winter activities like sledding and cross-country skiing offer four-season recreation. Located between Thomas and Davis with a lodge, cabins, and campgrounds, the park serves as a comfortable basecamp for exploring the Canaan Valley region.

Activities

Features

Difficulty

Season

All Year; Day-Use

Area Trails

Blackwater Canyon

Recreation Sites

Item #1

Safety

Boardwalk and stairs may be slippery after precipitation.

Cell service may not be available during your hike. Please plan accordingly and always follow Leave No Trace principles.

While Class 1 and Class 2 E-Bikes are permitted in Blackwater Falls State Park, use is prohibited within the Monongahela National Forest. Please visit USFC for e-bike policies. 

Directions

From Thomas and Davis, turn onto Blackwater Falls Road, which is located directly off WV-32. For Blackwater Falls Trail, continue on the Canyon Point Road loop; for Lodge, turn left onto Blackwater Lodge Road.

Nearby Towns

Downtown

No downtown nearby.

15 Minutes

As a gateway to Blackwater Falls, Canaan Valley, and the Canaan Mountain trail systems, Davis blends small-town charm with world-class hiking, biking, skiing, and wildlife experiences.
Thomas, WV combines a thriving arts district with trail, waterfall, and canyon access as the northern gateway to the Monongahela National Forest.

30 Minutes

Parsons, WV blends small-town charm with direct access to the Monongahela National Forest, the Allegheny Highlands Trail, and the Blackwater Canyon Rail Trail.

60 Minutes

From its unexpectedly cool downtown coffee shops and breweries to its rail trails and wilderness areas, Elkins packs above its weight in outdoor adventures.
Just minutes from Dolly Sods and Smoke Hole Canyon, Petersburg blends historic downtown charm with rail, river, and trail access at the eastern edge of the Monongahela National Forest.
Famed for its dramatic cliffs and overlook trail, Seneca Rocks is a gateway to Spruce Knob, Dolly Sods, and some of West Virginia’s best hiking and climbing.

Explore Nearby Destinations

Area Itineraries

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