About 5 minutes · 2 miles
Davis, WV
A tiny mountain town with coffee shops, a legendary outfitter and easy access to the state park. It's the closest hub for food and supplies.
Nearby Guide
Things to Do Near Blackwater Falls
Tucker County is the adventure capital of the Alleghenies — a compact corner of West Virginia packed with waterfalls, wild highlands, mountain towns and ski slopes.
A Perfect Base in the Highlands
Blackwater Falls State Park protects the 57-foot amber waterfall that gives the park its name, along with the dark, tea-colored water of the Blackwater River. Around it, Canaan Valley, Dolly Sods and the high ridges of the Monongahela National Forest create a year-round playground.
The nearby towns of Davis and Thomas put you close to cafes, galleries and breweries, and the whole area sits within an easy loop of some of West Virginia's best-known natural landmarks.
Davis & Thomas: Right Next Door
About 10 minutes · 5 miles
Thomas, WV
A revived coal town known for its art galleries, music venue and brewery. Pair it with a walk along the river and the historic downtown.
Canaan Valley & the Ski Slopes
About 20 minutes south, Canaan Valley Resort State Park holds the highest valley of its size east of the Mississippi. In winter it's a downhill and cross-country ski destination; in summer the chairlift runs for hikers and mountain bikers, and the valley's wetlands attract birders and wildlife watchers.
Nearby Timberline Mountain and the nordic center at White Grass add more winter terrain, while Canaan's golf course and lodge make it a four-season stop.
Dolly Sods Wilderness
About 30 minutes from the falls, Dolly Sods is a high-altitude plateau of bogs, blueberry heaths and rock outcrops that looks more like Canada than Appalachia. The Red Creek and Bear Rocks areas offer some of the most photographed trails in the state.
Bring layers and sturdy boots — weather changes fast up here, and the rocky terrain is rugged. The Forest Road 75 approach is rough but passable for most vehicles in good conditions.
Seneca Rocks, Spruce Knob & Elkins
About 40 minutes south, Seneca Rocks rises 900 feet above the Potomac River's South Branch, a mecca for climbers with an observation deck and discovery center for everyone else. Continue to Spruce Knob, roughly 50 minutes away, to stand on West Virginia's highest point at 4,863 feet.
An hour west, Elkins offers a larger-town base with restaurants, the historic railroad depot and access to the Monongahela National Forest and the Stuart Recreation Area.
Top Nearby Attractions at a Glance
Blackwater Falls
The park's signature 57-foot falls.
On site
Davis
Closest town for food and gear.
5 min · 2 mi
Thomas
Galleries, music and a brewery.
10 min · 5 mi
Dolly Sods
Wild plateau trails and views.
30 min
Seneca Rocks
Climbing icon and overlook.
40 min
Spruce Knob
West Virginia's highest point.
50 min
Canaan Valley Skiing
Downhill and nordic terrain.
20 min
Elkins
Railroad town and regional base.
1 hr
Map of the Blackwater Area
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to do near Blackwater Falls besides the falls?
Explore Davis and Thomas, ski at Canaan Valley or Timberline, hike Dolly Sods, and drive to Seneca Rocks or Spruce Knob. Lindy Point and Pendleton Point offer two of the best overlooks in the park.
How far is Dolly Sods from Blackwater Falls?
About 30 minutes via Route 32 and Forest Road 75. The last stretch is gravel and can be rough, so check conditions first.
When is the best time to see the waterfall?
Spring runoff and after heavy rain bring the strongest flow. Fall color around early October is the most photographed season.
Do I need reservations in winter?
Yes. Ski weekends at Canaan Valley and Timberline fill quickly, so book lodging and rentals well in advance.
About Discover WV Today
Discover WV Today is an independent travel guide celebrating West Virginia's mountains, waterfalls, small towns and state parks. We publish practical trip-planning content for every season. Learn more about us.