Your Guide to the Blackwater Canyon Trail

The Blackwater Canyon Trail, located in the heart of the Monongahela National Forest, offers hikers an immersive experience through one of the most scenic landscapes in WV. This guide, provided by the local experts at Best of Canaan Real Estate Sales and Vacation Rentals, will give you all the essential information to make your trek through the Blackwater Canyon Trail enjoyable and memorable. Staying in one of our Canaan Valley, WV, vacation rentals offer a quintessential Appalachian retreat, promising a blend of modern comfort and unparalleled access to nature’s bounty.

What to Expect on the Blackwater Canyon Trail

Trail Overview

• Length: Approximately 10.5 Miles
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
• Elevation Change: Approximately 1,279 feet
• Time Estimate: 7 hours and 11 minutes

Immerse Yourself in the Region’s History

The Blackwater Canyon Trail was originally used to transport lumber and coal in 1888. Remnants of this history can still be seen from the coke ovens lining the trail. Venture runs deep through the Monongahela National Forest in eastern West Virginia, passing by waterfalls and relics of the railroad and coal industries. The trail follows one of the most challenging segments of the former West Virginia Central & Pittsburgh Railway. Signs placed by Friends of Blackwater indicate the locations of old  roundhouses, train depots, and machine shops along the trail.

Wonders That Await on the Blackwater Canyon Trail

The Blackwater Canyon Trail winds through stunning landscapes, including rhododendron thickets, dense hardwood forests, and vistas with stunning views of the canyon and Blackwater River. While hiking, you may encounter endangered species like the West Virginia flying squirrel, Indiana bat, and Cheat Mountain salamander. It’s essential to remain on the trail as the surrounding habitat is vital for their survival. The river’s roar at the canyon’s base provides visible waterfalls. Albert Falls is among the first you will encounter about a mile past the coke ovens. Then after another half mile, you will see Douglas Falls cascading 35 feet into a pool near Long Run. 

Prepare to Challenge Yourself on Your Hiking Adventure

The Blackwater Canyon Trail is known for its steep grade. Back in the 1880s, trains transporting coal between Hendricks and Thomas required extra locomotives to manage the 1,200-foot climb. Nowadays, visitors have the option to arrange a shuttle to Thomas for a one-way downhill ride or start from Hendricks and enjoy a steady downhill coast on the return. The trail surface is rough, so hikers should wear proper hiking shoes, and cyclists should opt for wide tires.

A Premium Selection of Vacation Rentals in Canaan Valley, WV

The Blackwater Canyon Trail is a gem of the Monongahela National Forest, offering a challenging yet rewarding hike through some of the state’s most stunning natural landscapes. Book your stay with Best of Canaan Real Estate Sales and Vacation Rentals to explore its wonders!