Looking for the perfect place to enjoy sunrise or sunset at Blackwater Falls State Park? Look no further than Lindy Point Overlook! This short (0.7-mile, out-and-back) easy trail leads to a wooden viewing platform overlooking the Blackwater Canyon and offers views towards the east and west.
We enjoyed watching the sunset after picking up ice cream in town. It was the perfect combination!
If you have Lindy Point on your list of things to do in Blackwater Falls State Park, the guide below has everything you need to know.
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Best Sunrise and Sunset Spot in Canaan Valley?
There are several scenic spots around Canaan Valley and Dolly Sods where you can view the sunrise or sunset. But Lindy Point is one of the best! The short trail through the rhododendrons leads you to a fantastic overlook of the Blackwater Canyon. Although the best view is to the west, you can also look east and catch the sunrise.
Prepare For Your Hike to Lindy Point Overlook
Parking
There is a small parking area (suitable for 3-4 cars) located next to the Lindy Point Overlook Trailhead. You can also park along Canaan Loop Road. There were probably a dozen or more cars parked along the road the evening we visited for sunset.
Good to Know: Canaan Loop Road turns into a very narrow two lane (more like a single lane) road just past the Nordic Center. Drive slowly and be aware of oncoming traffic. Hills along the road make it difficult to see oncoming cars.
Amenities
There are no bathrooms near Lindy Point. The closest bathroom is located at the Sled Run/Nordic Center (I am unsure if they are open year-round or only when the sled run is operational). Otherwise, you’ll have to use the restrooms at the Blackwater Lodge.
Pets
The trails at Blackwater Falls State Park are dog-friendly, but they must be leashed.
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 Blackwater Falls Lodge.
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.
Easy Trail to Lindy Point Overlook
| Trail Location: | On Canaan Loop Road, about 1 mile from the Nordic Center/Sled Run |
| Trail Length: | .7 miles, out and back |
| Trail Difficulty: | Easy, but not accessible. There are several rocks and roots to navigate along the trail. |
| Trail Type: | Out and back |
| Elevation Gain: | 50 feet |
| Dog Friendly: | Yes |
Trailhead
The trailhead to Lindy Point is on Canaan Loop Road, just to the right of the small parking area. It is clearly marked.
Along the Trail
I loved walking along the Lindy Point Overlook trail! You are surrounded by beautiful rhododendrons, which means you’ll have beautiful greenery year-round.
The trail is easy, but it is not accessible (I’ve seen it listed as wheelchair accessible in some places, and it is NOT). There are several rocks and roots along the trail, as well as some slight elevation gains and descents (very slight – it’s only a 50-foot elevation gain).
Viewing Platform and Rocks
As you reach the canyon, you encounter a few steps up to the viewing platform. This is a gorgeous overlook because it offers views to both the east and west, making it ideal for both sunrise and sunset.
There is also a short path that cuts through the rhododendrons and leads onto the rocks. If you choose to walk out on the rocks, be careful and stay away from the edge! It’s an almost thousand-foot drop to the bottom.
Other Great Overlooks at Blackwater Falls State Park
There are several scenic overlooks throughout Blackwater Falls State Park that offer a view of the Blackwater Canyon. The Lindy Point Overlook might be the best one in the park, but the others are also worth checking out.
We enjoyed the view from Pendleton Point Overlook. It was a short walk from the parking lot on Blackwater Falls Road, across from the Pendelton Point Shelter. You’ll find an official overlook, with a railing and tower viewer, as well as two other rocky outcroppings without guardrails. From here, you can see the large waterfall along Shays Run.
Another popular overlook is Pace Point. There is a 0.7-mile (1.4-mile out-and-back) trail that leads to the overlook.
Other Great Trails at Blackwater Falls State Park
We had fun hitting up some of the best parts of Blackwater Falls State Park. While you’re there, you don’t want to miss seeing Blackwater Falls. It’s an easy trail (though it includes over 200 steps) to West Virginia’s tallest waterfall.
You can also see Elakala Falls, another popular waterfall in the park. It’s a short walk to the falls, but we made the loop almost 3 miles to include Balanced Rock.
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