the park’ s falls plunge roughly 57 feet over rugged rock into a forested gorge, where boardwalks and viewing platforms make this dramatic landscape accessible to nearly every visitor. Beyond the main falls, miles of trails lead to overlooks such as Lindy Point and other scenic areas, offering hikers and nature lovers multiple ways to soak in their surroundings.
The park’ s varied terrain and trail network reward both brief visits and extended stays among towering spruce and hemlock trees. The neighboring towns of Davis and Thomas add character and community to any trip. Davis, with its cozy shops, galleries and local restaurants, is a convenient homebase for outdoor adventures. A short drive east, Thomas combines small-town charm with a creative energy visible in its cafés, boutiques and cultural venues. Together, these towns make the Blackwater Falls experience more than a day trip. They provide a welcoming environment that draws visitors back each season.
Photo by West Virginia State Parks.
In southeastern West Virginia, the Greenbrier State Forest offers woodland respite for travelers seeking forested trails, shaded picnic areas and year-round access to nature. The forest’ s network of paths varies from easy strolls to challenging terrain through mixed hardwoods, making it a destination for hikers, mountain bikers and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the natural world.
Photo by Experience Greenbrier Valley.
Acting as the backbone of this landscape, the Greenbrier River Trail is one of West Virginia’ s longest recreational corridors. Stretching more than 78 miles along the calm, peaceful Greenbrier River, the trail’ s crushed limestone surface invites cyclists, runners, hikers and paddlers to experience the region at their own pace. The trail’ s scenic bridges, river views and historic railto-trail character make it a favorable stop for visitors and locals alike.
Just a short drive from the forest and trail, Lewisburg blends history with a vibrant cultural scene. Its downtown is known for wellpreserved architecture, galleries, restaurants and locally owned shops. As a hub for arts, festivals and hospitality, Lewisburg offers a compelling complement to days spent exploring the surrounding forest paths and river trail.
On the Ohio River just outside of Parkersburg, Blennerhassett Island State Park provides a unique blend of early American history and scenic riverfront recreation. Accessible by the Island Belle sternwheeler from Point Park, the roughly 500-acre island feels like a step back in time. Towering walnut trees shade hiking and picnic areas, historic structures sit amidst the lush landscape and the reconstructed Blennerhassett Mansion recalls the elegant
estate of Harman and Margaret Blennerhassett. Guided tours of the mansion and narrated horse-drawn wagon rides bring the island’ s early 19th century story to life. Walking and biking trails encourage exploration at a leisurely pace.
Just across the river lies Blennerhassett, a small community that shares the island’ s name and provides a quieter base for visitors intrigued by the park’ s river access and heritage. In nearby Parkersburg, restaurants, galleries and lodging options complete the experience, making a trip to Blennerhassett Island a gateway to river culture and small-town hospitality in western West Virginia.
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