Hidden away in West Virginia’s Allegheny Mountains sits one of the state’s most well-known outdoor destinations: Blackwater Falls State Park. The wildly popular park is home to some of West Virginia’s most photographed natural landmarks, including the surging waters of its namesake Blackwater Falls and the nearby Elakala Falls. Whether you’re seeking a strenuous hike into the wilderness or a quick stop for dramatic photos, Blackwater Falls State Park is bound to please.
Because it’s in such a remote location, getting to the park is an adventure. Several regional airports are nearby, though it’s about three hours from the larger airports of Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C. If you fly into the former, take a few moments to enjoy a picturesque perch offering skyline views of the city. Be sure to soak up the city amenities while you can — Blackwater Falls State Park is near the small towns of Davis and Thomas, which offer little more than a handful of restaurants and grocery stores. They’re charming, to be sure, but don’t expect heaps of modern amenities.
Thankfully, the surrounding landscape makes up for the lack of lodging and dining options. Blackwater Falls is the main attraction, but the region also offers a wealth of outdoor opportunities beyond hiking and photography. From disc golf and sledding to a nature center and golfing at the nearby Canaan Valley Resort State Park, it’s easy to find ways to enjoy the great outdoors during a trip to Blackwater Falls.
Photographing Blackwater Falls in West Virginia
If you want to take photos of the cascading Blackwater Falls, you’ll want to hike the short Blackwater Falls Boardwalk Trail. This starts at the Trading Post parking lot and takes you down to the waterfall. It spans about a quarter mile, but it does require you to navigate over 200 steps. At the bottom, you’ll be greeted by an overlook deck and astonishing views of Blackwater Falls. An easier alternative is the Gentle Trail — park near the maintenance area to find this hike that’s more suitable for all skill levels.
As you’d expect from its name, the water surging out of Blackwater Falls is dark in color. This is due to the tannic acid produced by the needles of nearby trees. When these needles fall into the water, they slowly dye it dark amber. And as it cascades over 50 feet down Blackwater Falls, it makes for some dramatic photos. Similar to another picturesque and popular waterfall in neighboring Pennsylvania, it’s hard to take a bad photo of this natural wonder.
Keep in mind that this area is incredibly popular, meaning you’ll likely deal with crowds. Be careful during your hike, and make sure to wear a pair of boots with excellent traction, as the steps can get slippery, and navigating through crowds can be a challenge. Consider arriving on a weekday or early in the morning to have a quieter experience.
Exploring Blackwater Falls State Park and the surrounding area
