Blackwater Falls — 62ft Cascade in West Virginia

Blackwater Falls is a 62-foot cascade waterfall in Tucker County, West Virginia, reached by an easy walk over 0.5 miles.

Blackwater Falls is a 62-foot cascade in Blackwater Falls State Park in Tucker County, West Virginia — the marquee feature of West Virginia's Allegheny Highlands and one of the most-photographed waterfalls in the eastern U.S. The 'Blackwater' name comes from the tannin-stained amber water from upstream hemlock and red spruce stands that gives the falls their dark color. The CCC-built lodge, cabins, and trails throughout the state park preserve the 1930s-era architecture. The 0.5-mile boardwalk to the falls overlook is family-easy. Best in fall (October peak) and after winter ice formations.

What to expect

Drive into Blackwater Falls State Park (in Davis, WV, about 4 hours from DC or Pittsburgh). Pay the modest state park entry fee. Park at the falls overlook lot. Walk the 0.5-mile paved/boardwalk trail with stairs to the falls platform — easy. Multiple platforms at different levels. The state park lodge handles overnight stays with falls-area access. Pair with Canaan Valley Resort (15 minutes east, ski area and resort), Dolly Sods Wilderness, or the Blackwater Canyon Trail.