Mountain Family Getaway at Blackwater Falls State Park in West Virginia

Blackwater Falls State Park is named for the amber waters of Blackwater Falls. The park has amazing waterfalls, woodland areas, and great outlooks that are not very hard to hike. There are 20 miles of hiking trails, a nice lake for swimming, fishing, and kayaking, the longest sledding magic carpet ride on the East Coast, plenty of excellent spots for a picnic at the benches, a few playgrounds, and a nice gift shop.

In the winter months, visitors can enjoy ten miles of cross-country skiing, and get an exciting experience on Blackwater Falls Sled Run. Race down more than a quarter-mile of fresh mountain snow on the longest sled run on the East Coast. Ride up and sled down on the Magic Carpet through a cozy wooded path – and you will get just breathtaking emotions!

Blackwater Falls, a 57-foot waterfall, is one of the most photographed sights in West Virginia. The Falls can be seen from both the west and east sides. The east side is accessed via a very easily accessible trail that has different platforms to stop and rest. The west side has a closer view from the boardwalk.⁠⁠

In addition to the Blackwater Falls, the park has a few other heavily photographed points. Elakala Falls is surrounded by forest and is accessible by a foot trail behind the Blackwater Lodge. There are two sets of falls there to see. Pendleton Point Overlook gives you a unique possibility to see the mountains, the river, and the woods all at once, and it is just astonishing. Lindy Point presents its visitors with an excellent view south into the Blackwater Canyon. Please, wear sturdy waterproof footwear to make your hikes comfortable!

Visitors can enjoy the spectacular views year-round. The entrance to the park is free.