Canaan Valley Resort State Park

Photos

The trail passes by the meandering Blackwater River, which offers a scenic views of the wetland riverbeds.
Allison Pugh

About

Summary

The Blackwater River Trail is a secluded, but easily accessible trail that follows the Blackwater River through the wetlands of Canaan Valley Resort State Park.

Recommended by

Written by

Allison Pugh

Distance

1.0 miles

Destination Distance From Downtown

124.9 miles

Difficulty

1 of 5 diamonds

This trail is fairly easy, but it does have a few short downhills that require some effort.

Time To Complete

0 hours

This 1-mile trail is a short loop that you can hike quickly, but you will want to leave time to stop and check out the views.

Seasonality

All Seasons

Although trails in the park are open year-round, be prepared for wet, damp, or slippery trail conditions when there is heavy rain. Damp fall conditions can make the ground slick with fallen foliage. Winter snowfall can make trails more difficult to navigate and also make tree roots slippery.

Dog Friendly

On Leash Only

Fees Permits

Land Website

Canaan Valley Resorrt

Review

Intro

Canaan Valley Resort State Park is in scenic Tucker County, near Davis, WV. The park has 11 marked trails that cover more than 18 miles of terrain, from woodland forests and valley wetlands to meadows and rocky mountain peaks. This 1-mile trail runs along the Blackwater River, which carves its way across Tucker County to create the Blackwater Canyon and breathtaking Blackwater Falls. The loop also passes by some of the largest big-tooth aspen in the park.

What Makes It Great

If you are looking for a secluded but easily accessible hike, then the Blackwater River Trail is great. The trailhead is close to the parking lot near the golf course. The trek is an easy hike, away from the typical bustle of this popular park.

This quick hike is a great way to see some of the natural features in the valley, including its namesake riverbed and distinctive wetlands. The wide, open wetland is a sight to see year-round—from the wildflowers blooming in spring to the vibrant colors of autumn to the ethereally-frosted scene in winter. The gorgeous meadows and calm shorelines are particularly stunning during sunrise when deer are passing through.

There are also some unique features to explore along the Blackwater River Trail. Several naturally eroded formations have developed in the exposed limestone bedrocks. These strange features look like tombstones, which creates an eerie appearance— atypical scenery for such a short trail.

Who is Going to Love It

Since it’s just a mile long, this loop is perfect for beginners. It has a few sections that you can easily trek, but also just enough exposed tree roots to be challenging.

Birdwatchers will enjoy searching out several different species in the open wetlands.

The strange natural features along the trail also give nature photographers and adventurers a glimpse of what makes the valley so unique. No matter the season, this is a trail perfect for a leisurely hike or a quick and quiet workout.

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

Canaan Valley Resort State Park is at 230 Main Lodge Road, Davis, WV. Find parking for the Blackwater River Trailhead at the Golf Course Clubhouse or throughout the park at the Main Lodge, Nature Center, Ski Area and Recreation Building.

View West Virginia

Hiking