You can’t spell summer without vacation, and you can’t spell vacation without Canaan. There’s nowhere better to spend your hard-earned vacation days than West Virginia’s spectacular summer destination of Canaan Valley.
When the dog days hit, ditch the hustle and bustle of the city for the calming rustle of the aspens. Leave your worries behind with the heat as you climb up into the crisp, cool air of the highest large valley east of the Mississippi. And don’t forget to make your summer vacation even more enjoyable with a stay in one of our premier rental properties!
Escape to Paradise
Summer vacation is all about finding that elusive escape—the place that makes you feel like you were gone for months when you were just gone for a few days. Fortunately, your summer escape is closer than you may realize. Canaan Valley is within a few hours’ drive of major cities like Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Pittsburgh, and within a day’s beautiful drive for nearly 60% of the U.S. population. Grab your friends and family, grab your gear, and load up the adventure mobile for an escape to our high mountain paradise. Once you arrive, you’ll feel a million miles away from wherever you came.
Canaan Valley’s refreshing mountain weather will keep you calm and rejuvenate the soul. While West Virginia’s muggy lower elevations are often steaming in the 90s, Canaan Valley enjoys average summer highs in the mid-70s and lows in the mid-50s. So, bring your swimsuit and your favorite hoody because our hot tubs and fire pits can be used year-round! Along with the cool air, low humidity—and fewer bugs—will have you feeling like you’re somewhere out West (West Virginia, of course).
Speaking of weather, don’t let the forecast fool you! Canaan Valley creates its own weather patterns, and that pesky forecast calling for rain often turns into a beautiful bluebird summer day. If you’re enthralled by moody mountain weather, Canaan Valley is no stranger to exciting thunderstorms followed by majestic sunsets. And at nearly 13 miles wide, Canaan Valley offers that big sky feeling without having to travel all the way to Montana.
Stay, Play, Vacay
Adventure is the name of the game in Canaan, and there’s more than enough activity to keep you busy throughout your stay. World-class mountain bike trails, whitewater paddling, and rock climbing await the adventurous while hiking, backpacking, fly fishing, and horseback riding call out to those who like to enjoy summer at a slower pace. Nature lovers and photographers alike flock to Canaan Valley in the summer to discover a diverse range of plants, mushrooms, and animals—including nearly 200 species of birds!
Half the fun of summer vacation is enjoying where you stay while you play, and our diverse range of rental properties will get you hooked on the mountain lifestyle. From romantic getaways and adventurous outings to weddings and family reunions, our cozy cabins and luxurious homes are perfect for groups of all sizes. As always, your fourth night is FREE on non-holidays!
If you decide to turn your Canaan Valley summer vacation into a staycation, our friendly and dedicated team of specialists will go above and beyond to make sure all your summer needs are covered. We also offer a full range of property management services to keep your first or second home in tip-top shape throughout all our magnificent mountain seasons.
Tiny Towns, Big Fun
Prefer a little culture with your adventure? The neighboring mountain towns of Thomas and Davis offer a small-town feel, contrasting the wild and scenic nature of Canaan Valley.
Drive up and over Canaan Mountain to the adventure town of Davis where you’ll find craft beer, local eateries and pubs, the region’s premier bike shop, and a stunning network of mountain biking trails right from downtown.
Head out just two more miles to get a taste of Brooklyn in the artistic town of Thomas. Walk the historic row buildings of Front Street and browse the art galleries, shops, and cafes. Visit The Purple Fiddle and catch a nationally-touring band—you never know what you’ll find in this satisfyingly quirky town!
This summer, turn off the computer, put the phone away, and unplug from it all—the connection to nature is the only one you’ll need. Your Canaan Valley summer vacation is waiting!
Summer Events
Live Music There’s always music floating through the high-mountain air—so much that we can’t list it all here. Check out the following links and get tuned in on all the tunes happening in the area: Tucker County Event Calendar | The Purple Fiddle | Wicked Wilderness Pub | Mountain State Brewing Co.
West Virginia Mushroom Club Annual Foray at Blackwater Falls State Park: July 19 – 21 Join naturalists and mushroom experts for this famous multiday mushroom hunting extravaganza. https://www.wvmushroomclub.net/annual-foray
Summer Stroll at Canaan Valley Resort: July 20 Take a stroll through the state park with a Master Naturalist and learn about a highlighted, summer theme along the way. Themes may include trees, animal tracks, weather, history, etc. Please dress for hiking conditions. https://canaanvalley.org/events/event/3167/
Harriet Tubman Impersonation Performance: July 20 Come out to this performance to learn how Harriet Tubman became the most famous leader of the Underground Railroad, helping slaves escape to the free states and Canada. Also learn how her knowledge and experiences were valuable during the Civil War. https://canaanvalley.org/events/event/3012
Geology Rocks at Canaan Valley Resort: July 25 – 26 Join in as Survey Geologist, Ken Ashton, gives a presentation and takes us on a hike to learn the importance of geology in our Mountain State. He will explain why geological processes are important to our rivers, oil and gas, minerals, coal, and scenic beauty. https://canaanvalley.org/events/event/3014/
Pickin’ In Parsons Bluegrass Festival: July 30 – August 3 Head down to Parsons for this five-day bluegrass festival that was named 2017 Bluegrass Music Event of the Year by the International Bluegrass Music Association. http://www.fiverivercampground.com/pickin-in-parsons.html
Summer Stroll at Canaan Valley Resort: August 3 Take a stroll through the state park with a Master Naturalist and learn about a highlighted, summer theme along the way. Themes may include trees, animal tracks, weather, history, etc. Please dress for hiking conditions. https://canaanvalley.org/events/event/3169/
Blackbird Knob Hike at Canaan Valley Resort: August 10 This challenging, six-mile hike includes rough terrain, water crossings, and spectacular views. Waterproof boots and change of clothes are recommended. Pack your own lunch, snacks, and water. Not recommended for small children. https://canaanvalley.org/events/event/3017/
Summer Stroll at Canaan Valley Resort: August 10 Take a stroll through the state park with a Master Naturalist and learn about a highlighted, summer theme along the way. Themes may include trees, animal tracks, weather, history, etc. Please dress for hiking conditions. https://canaanvalley.org/events/event/3170/
Snakes of WV at Canaan Valley Resort: August 17 Come to this free presentation and learn to identify venomous and non-venomous snakes. Plus, see several live, common WV snakes up close. Learn about these fascinating snakes and walk away with a better appreciation for these amazing, misrepresented creatures. Presented by West Virginia DNR Wildlife Biologist, Jim Fregonara. https://canaanvalley.org/events/event/3018/
Edible Plants Hike at Canaan Valley Resort: August 24 This moderate, two-hour hike will teach you what plants are safe to eat, what trees and weeds and safe to use for survival, and what can help keep you alive in the outdoors. Bring suitable clothing, a lunch, snacks, water, etc. Ages 12 to Adult. https://canaanvalley.org/events/event/3019/
Natural Cordage and Primitive Basket Workshop: August 24 The ultimate workshop for those wanting to learn the basics of making cordage and baskets from natural materials. You’ll learn the skills for making sturdy natural twine and crafting primitive baskets that can be used in outdoor living or at home. All materials and tools will be provided. https://canaanvalley.org/events/event/3020/
Navigation Workshop at Canaan Valley Resort: August 24 Discover natural navigation through the woods and become an expert on using maps and a compass. https://canaanvalley.org/events/event/3021/
Edible Plants Hike at Canaan Valley Resort: August 31 This moderate, two-hour hike will teach you what plants are safe to eat, what trees and weeds and safe to use for survival, and what can help keep you alive in the outdoors. Bring suitable clothing, a lunch, snacks, water, etc. Ages 12 to Adult. https://canaanvalley.org/events/event/3023/
Natural Cordage and Primitive Basket Workshop: August 31 The ultimate workshop for those wanting to learn the basics of making cordage and baskets from natural materials. You’ll learn the skills for making sturdy natural twine and crafting primitive baskets that can be used in outdoor living or at home. All materials and tools will be provided. https://canaanvalley.org/events/event/3044/
Navigation Workshop at Canaan Valley Resort: August 31 Discover natural navigation through the woods and become an expert on using maps and a compass. https://canaanvalley.org/events/event/3045/
Douglas Falls/Blackwater Canyon Hike at Canaan Valley Resort: September 7 This 10-mile hike covers sights like the abandoned coke ovens, Douglas Falls, North Fork Blackwater River, and Lindy Point. https://canaanvalley.org/events/event/3047/
