One of the most popular sites in West Virginia is the Blackwater Falls Trail. This boardwalk and gravel trail is approximately a half-mile out and back, and is easy (though it’s not accessible due to the numerous stairs along the trail).
If you’re visiting Davis and Blackwater Falls State Park, taking the trail down to the namesake waterfall is a must-do. And the guide below has everything you need to know to plan your visit!
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Blackwater Falls
Blackwater Falls is West Virginia’s tallest waterfall! It’s 57-63 feet tall, depending on which source you use. The waterfall is also the most photographed site in the state. And it’s easy to see why. The amber-colored falls, surrounded by Red Spruce and Eastern Hemlocks, make for a gorgeous scene.
It is located within Blackwater Falls State Park in Davis, West Virginia, less than 3 hours from Pittsburgh and Washington, DC.
Prepare For Your Walk on the Blackwater Falls Trail
Parking
There is a large parking lot next to the Blackwater Falls Trading Post. This lot holds about 50 cars. Since it’s the lot for both the waterfall trail and the trading post, it can be busy during the summer months and holidays.
Amenities
The Blackwater Falls Trading Post features bathrooms, picnic tables, and a snack bar. There is also a small gift shop inside.
Pets
Leashed pets are allowed on the Blackwater Falls trail.
Limited Cellular Service
We had about 1 or 2 bars of service during our visit to Blackwater Falls State Park.
Download a Map
Before visiting Blackwater Falls State Park, it’s recommended that you download a map. However, if you forget, you can pick up a map at the Trading Post (if it’s open).
Be a Responsible Visitor
Remember to respect nature as you visit this park. Stay on established paths, pack out your trash (including food waste), and leave what you find behind.
As these destinations become increasingly popular, it is essential that we remain diligent in keeping our parks and lands clean and safe for all. You can learn more here.
Blackwater Falls Boardwalk Trail
| Trail Location: | Eastern end of the Blackwater Falls Trading Post parking lot |
| Trail Length: | Half-mile (out and back) |
| Trail Difficulty: | Easy but there are several sets of stairs along the trail |
| Trail Type: | Out and back |
| Elevation Gain: | 180 feet |
| Dog Friendly: | Yes |
Trailhead
You can find the Blackwater Falls trail at the east end of the parking lot by the Blackwater Falls Trading Post.
Along the Trail
The trail is a mix of gravel path and boardwalk. There are several stairs (over 200 according to the trail description) along the trail, but sections of flat trail break them up.
Almost Heaven Swing
After descending the first set of stairs, make a right to continue to the falls. As you approach the falls and get your first glimpse, you’ll find an Almost Heaven Swing. There are dozens of these swings across West Virginia. Take a moment to grab a photo before continuing.
My favorite Almost Heaven Swing location is Cranny Crow Overlook at Lost River State Park!
Viewing Platform
As you head down another set of stairs, you’ll encounter a viewing platform. The platform gives you a higher vantage point of the falls. It’s worth pausing here before continuing.
Close to the Falls
Continue down the stairs and boardwalk trail to the falls. This section may be wet and slippery due to the mist coming off the falls (if you’re lucky enough to see it as full as we did!).
It is truly an impressive waterfall, even though it stands at only around 60 feet tall.
Returning to the Parking Lot
We backtracked up the stairs, but AllTrails notes that this trail is a loop. I believe you can walk up the paved path (near the Almost Heaven Swing) to the parking lot. We did not do this, so I can’t attest to it.
Accessible Trail to Blackwater Falls Overlook
There is an alternate overlook trail across the Blackwater River that is accessible. The Gentle Trail, located on Blackwater Lodge Road, is a half-mile, out-and-back, paved trail that leads to an overlook of the falls. It does not bring you as close to the waterfall as the main trail, but you still have a nice view.
Other Trails at Blackwater Falls State Park
Blackwater Falls State Park is jam-packed with trails and other fun activities. We enjoyed our hike to the Lindy Point Overlook at sunset. It was pretty busy though – many other people had the same idea!
You can see the other well-known waterfall in the park, Elakala Falls, using a fun trail near the Blackwater Lodge. We turned that into a 3-mile loop to see Balanced Rock as well.
Another popular trail is the Pase Point Trail, 1.4 miles out and back. This would be a great place to watch the sunrise.
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