Blackwater Falls, West Virginia, USA

Blackwater Falls

Photographer: Lewis Vicinus

Blackwater Falls
(c) Lewis Vicinus

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Blackwater Falls are the centrepiece of Blackwater Falls State Park in the Allegheny Mountains of Tucker County. It is among the most photographed venues in West Virginia, USA.

The “Great Falls” of Blackwater River drop about 62 feet (19 m) at the head of Blackwater Canyon. In winter, the Falls often ice over completely. A broad trail descends about 320 feet (98 m) from the Falls parking lot to a wooden walkway and overlook, while a much steeper trail extends beyond to the basin below the Falls. On the opposite (east) side of the river, a longer trail (“Gentle Trail”) also accesses the Falls from a higher vantage point.

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