Blackwater Canyon, Natural canyon in Allegheny Mountains, West Virginia.
Blackwater Canyon is a gorge in the Allegheny Mountains carved by the Blackwater River through a 1,250 foot (380 m) descent of dense forest. The river creates waterfalls and flows between steep mountain slopes covered with spruce, hemlock, and pine trees.
The West Virginia Central and Pittsburgh Railway was built through the canyon in 1888, opening the region to coal mining. This development brought industrial activity and settlement to the previously remote area.
The trails pass former mining work sites and railroad structures that still stand in the landscape. These places tell the story of how people once lived and worked in this remote part of the mountains.
A trail system winds through the canyon with starting points in nearby towns, offering chances to see waterfalls and river views. The terrain is steep in places, so wear proper hiking boots and bring enough water for the full journey.
The canyon shelters rare animals including endangered flying squirrels and bats found in only a few places on Earth. These creatures live hidden in the forest, and observant visitors may catch glimpses of them during quiet moments.
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