Blackwater Falls State Park is named for the dark amber waters of Blackwater Falls, a 57-foot cascade tinted by the tannic acid of fallen hemlock and spruce needles. The falls, along with a few of the park’s other features like Elakala Falls, Lindy Point and Pendleton Point, are some of the state’s most photographed spots. We remember seeing several of them on the telephone book cover while growing up.
Video of Elakala Falls on Joe’s YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGheJhsO28A
This approximately 2400-acre park is well-designed and maintained. It is very easy to access the main features of the park and there is more than the usual parking available.
Joe did a hike to Elakala Falls and Balanced Rock one day. Elakala Falls was the highlight of the park for him. It is a peaceful, beautiful falls located not very far from the lodge.
Joe and Jane enjoyed the namesake falls of the park. We visited in early October and the water flow was low. However, even at low flow the falls are beautiful, especially framed by the fall colors.
We really enjoyed Blackwater Falls and encourage you to include the park on one of your West Virginia trips!