Blackwater Canyon, Natural canyon in Allegheny Mountains, West Virginia.
The eight-mile gorge, carved by the Blackwater River, descends 1,250 feet through dense forests of spruce, hemlock, and pine between Backbone and Canaan Mountains.
Henry Gassaway Davis constructed the West Virginia Central and Pittsburgh Railway through the canyon in 1888, transforming the region's industrial development.
The canyon trails feature interpretive signs detailing the former railroad depots, locomotive facilities, and coke ovens that represent the area's coal mining heritage.
The Blackwater Canyon Trail extends 10.7 miles with access points in Thomas and Hendricks, offering opportunities for hiking and viewing waterfalls like Albert and Douglas Falls.
The canyon provides critical habitat for endangered species including the West Virginia flying squirrel and Indiana bat within its 6,000-acre forest expanse.
Location: West Virginia
GPS coordinates: 39.09630,-79.54740
Latest update: March 7, 2025 03:40
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