Day Trip to Blackwater Falls State Park- The Only Itinerary You Need!

 

Blackwater Falls State Park is my all time favorite park in West Virginia. I’m not sure if its the beautiful vistas, the amazing waterfalls, or if it’s the fact that I feel like I’m in one of the most beautiful places on earth. If you are planning on heading to Davis (the town where Blackwater Falls is located), I have you covered with an action packed day trip itinerary.

Where is Blackwater Falls State Park?

 Just three short hours from Washington, DC, Blackwater Falls State Park has a laid back vibe and is a beautiful alternative to the hustle and bustle of Northern Virginia and Washington DC. 

Nestled in the beautiful Allegheny Mountains, it is truly a hikers and photographers delight. With miles of trails and beautiful vistas, this hidden gem is not to be missed.

 

Must bring items for Blackwater Falls State Park

Here are a few items that I believe are must haves for this trip:

Trail shoes with good grips on the bottom.

Sunblock

Bug spray

 

Day Trip To Blackwater Falls State Park Itinerary

 

Elakala Trail

The trail begins at the end of the parking lot of Blackwater Lodge. It is an .05 mile trail that gives you a superb view of Elakala Falls, and continues along the canyon rim and ends at the main park road across from Balanced Rock Trail. 

While parts of this trail were a bit rocky and uneven, it for the most part is an easy trail in my opinion. The views of the waterfalls are just spectacular and there are lots of smaller paths that will take you down to the water to offer you some great views. 

Lindy Point

This short hike takes you to the most scenic spot in Blackwater Falls State Park. This mostly flat trail of under a mile out and back treats you with one of the most beautiful views in West Virginia! There is a wooden platform at the end to enjoy the view, and be sure to check out the view from all the angles.

The trail sign is easy to overlook and parking is limited to four or five cars, but parking on the street is acceptable.

                                                                                         

Pase Point

“This is a short out and back trail leading to Pase Point Overlook with views of the Blackwater River Valley.

This is a short out and back trail leading to Pase Point Overlook with views of the Blackwater River Valley. You can also choose to do the 4.2 mile out and back trail that offers a nice view of Pendleton Falls pretty early on in this moderate hike.

Blackwater Falls

A short .04 mile hike consisting of many stairs and one of the most beautiful waterfalls I have ever seen. There are many viewpoints to admire and appreciate the beauty of these falls. The area  is very well maintained, has nice restrooms, a snack bar, gift shop and picnic area.

Blackwater Falls Overlook

This .02 mile trail out and back  gives you another look of the falls from a different perspective.

Lodging 

When we were planning our trip here, we had a hard time finding lodging on the internet. Everything seemed so far away(because it was), or more antiquated than what we were hoping for. After asking some locals for recommendations when we got to town, we hit the jackpot in terms of lodging for the night!

Blackwater Falls State Park Lodge – This place was awesome!  The  Blackwater Falls State Park Lodge  just underwent a large renovation, and it couldn’t have been nicer. The rooms were amazing and clean, the views were fabulous and the staff couldn’t be nicer. The restaurant was excellent and they had a nice variety of wine and local beers. 

We were right in the park and steps away from one of my favorite trails. For a steal at $105 a night, I wish we had longer to stay and enjoy all the amenities

The Billy Motel and Bar – This unique vintage roadside motel is a welcome alternative to the chain hotels most folks are used to. It may not look like much on the outside, but The Billy Motel and Bar is very charming and authentically West Virginia.

Restaurant 

Wicked Wilderness Pub – We stumbled upon this place when we drove into Davis and we were so glad we did. We enjoyed some fabulous local beer and chatted among the locals while we sat in the back of the place at the bar. The food coming out of the kitchen looked amazing, and I just loved the home tome feel of the place. 

Shopping

The gift shops located within the park offer many items locally made and are quite beautiful. The glass ornaments are just beautiful.  Take some time also to stroll down William Avenue and go check out the cute independent shops. Wild Ginger and Spice and Emerald Tree Boutique were two of my favorites.

Blackwater Falls offers great amenities and beautiful scenery. It is definitely worth the drive, and you will not be disappointed.

If you have some extra time, head down to East Avenue in Thomas. It’s a short ten minute drive from Davis. East Ave has some cute restaurants, galleries and shops that don’t disappoint.