West Virginia Parks

Blackwater Falls State Park, situated in the rugged Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia, is a captivating natural haven known for its breathtaking waterfall, diverse recreational offerings, and stunning landscapes. Encompassing approximately 2,358 acres, the park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a tranquil escape.

Nestled in the heart of the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia, Canaan Valley Institute (CVI) offers outdoor enthusiasts an exhilarating playground of rugged terrain, scenic vistas, and adrenaline-pumping mountain biking trails. Renowned for its pristine beauty and diverse ecosystems, CVI beckons riders of all skill levels to embark on a journey of adventure and exploration amidst the stunning landscapes of the Canaan Valley region.

Canaan Valley State Park is a year-round vacation destination, having a wide range of warm and cold weather activities to offer. During the winter, the park runs a ski resort and rents cabins from which you can step out onto miles of snowshoeing and cross country skiing trails. In the warmer months, you can stay at the campground, lodge, or cabins and hike or bike the 18 miles of trails on the premises or venture further out into the million-acre Monongahela National Forest which surrounds the park. In addition, the park also has a golf course, tennis courts, and various other activities.

Dolly Sods Wilderness is part of the Monongahela National Forest system. Much of the land in the higher elevations consists of eco-systems that are more commonly seen much further north in Canada. The 17,000 acre wilderness has 47 miles of hiking trails, many of which follow old logging roads and railroad grades. The area is very popular with hikers, backpackers, cross-country skiers, and campers.

Nestled in the heart of the Mountain State, the Greenbrier River Trail offers outdoor enthusiasts an unparalleled adventure through some of West Virginia's most breathtaking landscapes. Stretching for 78 miles along the scenic Greenbrier River, this iconic trail promises an unforgettable experience for mountain bikers seeking adventure, tranquility, and natural beauty.

Sandwiched between Blackwater Falls State Park to the north and Canaan Valley State Park to the south, the Canaan Mountain section of the Monongahela National Forest provides for a secluded hike or mountain bike ride on challenging, rocky single track trails. These trails can be accessed via the 18 mile Canaan Loop Road which runs east to west through this area and then heads northeast into Blackwater Falls State Park. This gravel road provides for an easier bike ride through this 1300 acre section of national forest. There are several small parking areas along the Canaan Loop Road from which you can access the single track trails. Several trails connect to Blackwater Falls and Canaan Valley State Parks.