Blackwater Falls State Park: 1st Time Visitor Guide
Blackwater Falls State Park is one of the most stunning parks to explore, not just in the state, but the greater eastern US area. This place stuns visitors with its dramatic landscapes, deep forest trails, and namesake amber-colored waterfall. Whether you’re here for a quick weekend getaway or a full week of outdoor adventures, this park offers a perfect balance of natural beauty, accessible trails, and remote wilderness experiences.
Overview
Blackwater Falls State Park spans over 2,300 acres and is best known for the iconic 57-foot Blackwater Falls, where tannins from hemlock and red spruce needles tint the water a dark, almost tea-colored hue. The park is a favorite year-round destination for families, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking for hiking, birdwatching, cross-country skiing, or a peaceful escape into nature.
Photos
How to Get There
- By Car: The park is located near Davis, West Virginia.
- From Washington, D.C.: 3 hours
- From Pittsburgh, PA: 3 hours
- From Charleston, WV: 3.5 hours
- By plane: Morgantown Municipal Airport (1.5 hours away, see flight deals)
Best Times to Visit
- Fall (Mid-September to Late October): Stunning foliage and fewer crowds.
- Summer (June to August): Ideal for hiking, photography, and family-friendly activities.
- Winter (December to February): Great for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
- Spring (April to May): Waterfalls are full, and wildflowers begin to bloom.
10 Best Things to Do
- View Blackwater Falls: The main overlook offers a stunning frontal view of the falls—especially powerful after spring rains.
- Lindy Point Overlook: Offers jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Blackwater Canyon, especially at sunset.
- Elakala Falls Trail: A short but enchanting hike to a multi-tiered waterfall near the lodge.
- Balsam Fir Trail: A peaceful loop through the fragrant forest.
- Pendleton Point Overlook: Sweeping views of the canyon’s deepest point.
- Sled Run (Winter): Home to the longest sled run on the East Coast with a magic carpet lift.
- Cross-Country Skiing: Groomed trails make winter visits a blast.
- Fishing in Pendleton Lake: Stocked with trout and perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
- Canoeing and Paddleboarding: Rentals available during summer months at Pendleton Lake.
- Visit the Nature Center: Offers educational programs and live exhibits.
- Bonus: See top visitor recommendations
Best Hikes (Beginner to Advanced)
- Beginner:
- Gentle Trail to Blackwater Falls Boardwalk – Easy walk with steps to the main overlook.
- Balanced Rock Trail – Peaceful forest stroll with light elevation.
- Moderate:
- Elakala Trail – ~1 mile round trip to a gorgeous hidden waterfall.
- Lindy Point Trail – 0.8 miles out-and-back to a scenic canyon view.
- Advanced:
- Dobbin House Trail – ~3.5 miles round trip, wooded terrain with elevation gain and great solitude.
- North Rim Trail – 4.5 miles of challenging and rewarding forest path with canyon views.
Hidden Gems
- Elakala Falls (Beyond the 1st Tier): Venture carefully beyond the first fall to discover a series of lesser-known cascades.
- Pase Point Overlook: A local secret offering a quieter and equally stunning vista of Blackwater Canyon.
- Balanced Rock: A mossy and meditative trail most visitors miss.
- Beaver Dam Trail Loop: A quieter area to spot wildlife and take in the sounds of the forest.
- Canyon Rim Boardwalk at Dawn: The crowds haven’t arrived, and the mist over the canyon is surreal.
1–5 Day Sample Itinerary
Day 1:
- Arrive and check in to Blackwater Falls Lodge or a nearby cabin.
- Quick hike to Elakala Falls.
- Sunset at Lindy Point.
Day 2:
- Morning hike to Blackwater Falls.
- Explore Nature Center and Balsam Fir Trail.
- Relax by Pendleton Lake in the afternoon.
Day 3:
- Pack a picnic and hike Dobbin House or North Rim Trail.
- Visit Pase Point in the evening.
Day 4:
- Canoe or paddleboard on Pendleton Lake.
- Explore smaller trails or visit the town of Davis for food and shops.
Day 5:
- Sunrise at Canyon Rim Boardwalk.
- One last peaceful walk on Beaver Dam Trail before heading home.
Packing List
- My Amazon gear list
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Lightweight jacket (layers recommended)
- Reusable water bottle
- Bug spray (especially in summer)
- Trekking poles (for advanced hikes)
- Daypack
- Camera or smartphone for photography
- Binoculars for birdwatching
- Snow gear if visiting in winter
- Snacks and lunch for day hikes
Where to Stay
Things to Know Before You Go
- Weather Changes Fast: Pack layers and be prepared for sudden shifts.
- Cell Service is Spotty: Download maps and trail info before arriving.
- Pets: Allowed on most trails but must be leashed.
- Lodge Dining: Limited hours in off-season, call ahead.
Similar Sights
Final Thoughts
Blackwater Falls State Park is one of the East Coast’s best-kept secrets. With its moody waterfalls, canyon vistas, and hidden forest paths, it’s the perfect place for a peaceful escape into the wild. Whether you’re here for a single afternoon or planning a multi-day adventure, this park invites you to slow down, explore, and reconnect with nature.
