Besides a haven for wildlife, Canaan Valley is one of the most pristine
and picturesque spots in all of West Virginia. Everywhere beauty abounds, and
so much of it is accessible to the public. Between Canaan Valley Resort State
Park and Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge more than half of the valley is
public land (22,500 acres).
 |
| Blackwater River Trail |
Where do you begin to explore such a vast area? After hiking and
photographing this Valley for a decade, my favorite trail is the Blackwater
River Trail. The Blackwater River Trail makes an easy 3/4 mile loop through
mixed northern hardwood stands and follows the Blackwater River as it begins
its meandering journey through Canaan Valley. Picturesque views of the river,
wildflowers lining its banks, and adjacent meadows delight the eye and have
inspired some award-winning photography. On this self-guided nature trail are
unusual limestone outcrops resembling tombstones and the largest Bigfoot aspen
in the park.
 |
| Blackwater River Trail |
The trailhead (GPS: Lat. 39.036278, Long. -79.457983) is adjacent to the
golf course parking lot and just a mile and a half from the Park Lodge. To
begin hiking the trail, I usually take the right-hand fork. This path leads through
a stand of prickly Hawthorne trees and then gently slopes down to the river.
Once on the level, the trail turns left, but I suggest first taking a faint
path to the right, which after 300 feet will put you on a scenic spot on the
river. Then back track and continue on the main trail.
 |
| Blackwater River Trail |
Take the first turn out path to the right to access the Blackwater River.
It’s a beautiful scene worthy of a photograph. If you’re lucky, you might see
some Canada geese paddling down the stream. The main trail then parallels a
straight stretch of the Blackwater River. Be sure to stop at a point where the
trail turn sharply to the left following a meander in the river. There are lots
of scenic photo shoots here, too. The trail parallels the river again and then makes
another sharp turn to the left to leave the river. At this point, look for a
path leading to the right for more scenic views along the shore line of the
Blackwater. The trail then begins a gradual incline through the forest back to
the trailhead.
Gorgeous!!
ReplyDeleteThank you Kathy.
DeleteBeautiful and like the clouds and reflection in the water. Sounds like a great walk.
ReplyDeleteGlad you like them. It is a fine walk indeed Kim.
DeleteBeautiful and like the clouds and reflection in the water. Sounds like a great walk.
ReplyDeleteFor the ultimate in secret adventure take to the miles of backwarer blackwater headwaters on a boat or paddle board and head upstream where the beavers have SO MUCH WATER!
ReplyDelete