Visit the Wilderness & Kid Attractions

Nearby Waterfalls

  • Blackwater Falls

    The largest and most impressive falls in the area. Access is via a well-maintained boardwalk with stairs. It's not a long walk, but plan on the equivalent of several flights of stairs.

    *There has been a drought in the area so some falls might be less impressive than usual

  • Douglas Falls

    There are a couple of falls at this location. The path is level ground and not a long walk. Nice and close to Davis and Thomas. Expect some potholes on the dirt road where you park.

    *There has been a drought in the area so some falls might be less impressive than usual

  • Falls of Elakala

    Within walking distance of Blackwater Falls Lodge, this is a small but scenic set of four waterfalls. There is also a scenic bridge. Worth the short and easy walk from the Lodge.

    *There has been a drought in the area so some falls might be less impressive than usual

Nearby Hikes

  • Lindy Point Overlook

    Lindy Point has breathtaking views of mountains and valley. It's a short 1/2 mile walk on flat ground. The trail can be a little muddy at times. Parking could be tight on this busy weekend.

  • Camp 70 Rd

    Camp 70 Rd begins in the town of Davis. It's a short and easily drivable gravel road with opportunities to get out of your car, see the stream, explore short paths, and return to your car to go a little farther.

    The link below will give you directions to the starting point. Start exploring from there.

    Map
  • Table Rock

    This one is a little farther off the beaten path. If you're willing to take a slightly more adventurous drive on gravel mountain roads, and you're willing to hike about 1 mile each way, you'll be rewarded with amazing views and a little more solitude than other options. The hike is flat and easy but can be muddy.

  • Rocky Ridge Trail

    This one is for folks who want to get a taste of the wilds of West Virginia. Rocky Ridge Trail is part of Dolly Sods Wilderness -- Ben's favorite place in the Eastern US. The hike is not overly strenuous, and you can walk as far as your time allows and turn back at any point. You can also extend the hike into various other trails in Dolly Sods if you wish.

    Use the link below for finding the trailhead and navigating while hiking.

A little farther away...

  • Bear Rocks

    Bear Rocks is only about 10 miles from Davis as-the-crow-flies, but the rugged terrain requires an hour-long drive. Your GPS will probably give you two driving options, and we recommend the southern one through the town of Laneville. This will require a lot of time on gravel roads, but they aren't treacherous and the experience is worth it.

    Bear Rocks Nature Preserve is a small collection of paths. If you have more time, head into the massive Dolly Sods Wilderness right next door for more hiking in Ben's favorite place in the eastern US.

    Autumn is the busiest time here, expect plenty of people.

  • Seneca Rocks

    A beautiful drive (about 45 minutes) brings you to a popular hiking and rock climbing area: Seneca Rocks. There is plenty of parking at the base of the 1.3 mile trail. Expect a physical (but not technical) challenge with this one, but the views from the top simply can't be beat. The stroll around nearby Seneca Rocks Lake is lovely.

    Seneca Rock can be combined with Spruce Knob if time allows.

  • Spruce Knob

    You'll have a breathtaking drive to Spruce Knob, and once you get there you can access breathtaking views with an easy walk. Nothing strenuous required here, and the beautifully winding 60-90 minute drive is a reward all by itself.

    Spruce Knob can easily be combined with Seneca Rocks if time allows.

For the Kids

  • Leaf Peepers Events

    There are lots of family friendly events taking place during the Leaf Peepers Festival, including Falconry demonstrations, Salamander info sessions, and more. See the festival's Facebook page linked below

  • Mini Golf

    There is a nicely done miniature golf course at The Inn at Canaan (which is different from Canaan Resort/Lodge).

  • Smoke Hole Caverns

    Less than an hour from Davis, WV. We haven't visited this ourselves yet, but we've heard it's an impressive underground display of stalactites, stalagmites, and other formations