Canaan Valley Resort State Park!
The Canaan Valley Resort State Park is a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Located in the Allegheny Mountains, this park offers breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and a variety of activities throughout the year. Whether you’re interested in hiking, skiing, golfing, or simply relaxing, we’ll showcase the best things to do in Canaan Valley Resort State Park during your visit to West Virginia.
In this Article
1. Must-See Attractions
Dolly Sods Wilderness
Covering over 17,000 acres, Dolly Sods Wilderness is also a part of the Monongahela National Forest and is known for its diverse landscapes, including windswept plains, dense forests and wetlands. The area has about 45 miles of hiking trails, with popular routes like Bear Rocks Trail and Blackbird Knob Trail, which lead to scenic overlooks and peaceful spots for nature lovers. The elevation reaches over 4,700 feet, creating a mix of plant life, like red spruce trees, blueberry bushes and mountain laurel. The Nature Conservancy has helped protect this area, ensuring its natural beauty remains untouched.
Canaan Valley Ski Resort
The Canaan Valley Ski Resort is a popular winter destination in West Virginia. The resort features 47 ski slopes and trails, offering options for beginners and experienced skiers. The ski area sits at an elevation of 3,100 feet, making it one of the highest ski resorts in the region. Visitors can enjoy downhill skiing, snowboarding and cross-country skiing, with rentals available for those new to the sport. Families and groups can enjoy scenic chairlift ride and resort’s snow tubing park, where everyone can slide down snowy lanes for a fun and exciting experience.
Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad
The Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad offers scenic train rides through the mountains of West Virginia, giving visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the region. The railroad operates several heritage trains, including the Durbin Rocket, a steam-powered locomotive that takes passengers on a relaxing journey along the Greenbrier River. Another popular ride is the New Tygart Flyer, which features tunnels and a stop at the High Falls of Cheat. The Cass Scenic Railroad, part of the same system, takes visitors to Bald Knob, one of the highest points in West Virginia, providing breathtaking views.
Cabin Mountain Trail
The Cabin Mountain Trail is a great option for hikers looking for a challenge with rewarding views in Canaan Valley. The trail starts at the end of A-Frame Road and climbs up the northwest side of Cabin Mountain, eventually reaching the eastern boundary of Canaan Valley Wildlife Refuge. The hike covers 2.6 miles and gains nearly 1,000 feet in elevation. Along the way, hikers can enjoy views of Canaan Valley and Blackwater River, with open landscapes stretching across the horizon. The trail connects to South Glade Run Crossing, offering additional routes for those who want to extend their hike.
2. Outdoor Adventures
Hiking and Nature Trails
Canaan Valley Resort State Park offers 18 miles of hiking trails, giving visitors a chance to explore forests, meadows and streams. The trails range from easy walks to more challenging hikes, making them great for all skill levels. Popular trails include Bald Knob Trail, which leads to a high overlook and Blackwater River Trail, a short path along the river where visitors might spot beavers. Middle Ridge Trail is another option, passing through wooded areas with gentle elevation changes. For a longer adventure, hikers can try Promised Land Trail, which stretches 5.2 miles and passes by park landmarks.
Kayaking and Canoeing
Canaan Valley Resort State Park offers great opportunities for kayaking and canoeing, with peaceful waters surrounded by scenic mountain views. The park is located in West Virginia’s Allegheny Mountains, making it a beautiful spot for paddling. Visitors can explore slow-moving streams and small lakes, which are perfect for beginners and those looking for a relaxing experience. The nearby Blackwater River is another option, offering gentle currents and chances to see local wildlife. Rentals and tours are available at Blackwater Outdoor Adventures, and visitors can also bring their own equipment.
Winter Sports
Canaan Valley Resort State Park is a great place for winter sports, offering a variety of activities for visitors of all skill levels. The park features snowboarding, snow tubing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and enjoy ice skating at the outdoor rink, making it a top destination for winter fun. The ski area has 47 trails, ranging from beginner slopes to advanced runs, with rentals and lessons available for those new to the sport. The snow tubing park is among the longest in the Mid-Atlantic, offering 1,200 feet of smooth, snowy lanes where riders can glide down with plenty of space to enjoy the ride.
Mountain Biking
Canaan Valley offers 18 miles of marked trails for mountain biking, passing through forests, meadows and streams. Many trails connect to the Monongahela National Forest, expanding riding options for visitors. The park has routes for all skill levels, from easy beginner trails to challenging paths with elevations and rocky terrain. Riders can enjoy cross-country trails, featuring a mix of fast sections and technical areas. Some trails pass by scenic overlooks, giving bikers a chance to enjoy mountain views. The best time to ride is spring through fall, when the weather is mild and trails are in good shape.
Camping Sites
Canaan Valley Resort State Park offers 59 campsites and 2 primitive tent sites, giving visitors a chance to enjoy the outdoors while still having access to resort amenities. The campsites are paved and wooded, with options for full hookups, electric and water, or basic tent camping. Every campsite comes with a fire ring and picnic table, giving visitors a comfortable spot to get relax and prepare meals outdoors. The campground has a comfort station with showers and laundry facilities, available year-round. The campground is open spring through fall, with water disconnected from October to April.
3. Iconic Landmarks
Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
The Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center is a great place to start exploring the refuge, which is the 500th National Wildlife Refuge in the United States. Located in Davis, the center provides information about wetlands, forests and wildlife found in the area. Visitors can learn about the refuge’s history, including its role in protecting rare plants and animals. The center has exhibits, maps and ranger-led programs, helping guests understand the local ecosystem of Canaan Valley. The refuge covers over 16,600 acres, making it the largest high-elevation wetland complex in West Virginia.
Seneca Caverns
Located in Germany Valley near Riverton, Seneca Caverns were discovered by Native American Seneca people, who used them for shelter. Visitors can explore several limestone passages with guided tours available, where they’ll see impressive stalactites, stalagmites and unique flowstone formations. The tours are customized and last about 45 minutes, covering multiple levels of the cave system. The temperature inside remains constant at around 54°F, making it a cool escape during the summer. The caverns have a gemstone mining area, where visitors can sift through sand to find small treasures.
Smoke Hole Caverns
Nearby Seneca Rocks, Smoke Hole Caverns is a fascinating underground attraction once used by Native Americans and later became a hiding place for moonshiners during Prohibition. Visitors can take guided tours through the cave, exploring stalactites, stalagmites and ribbon-like rock formations that have formed over thousands of years. A standout feature is the World’s Largest Ribbon Stalactite, a unique rock formation that exists in just a handful of caves around the world. Outside, visitors can explore the Smoke Hole Resort, which offers cabins, a gift shop and gemstone mining for families.
Seneca Rocks
The Seneca Rocks stands out as a well-known natural feature in West Virginia, towering 900 feet over the North Fork River. The towering rock formation is made of Tuscarora Quartzite, a strong and erosion-resistant mineral that formed 440 million years ago. Seneca Rocks is a popular spot for rock climbing, attracting climbers from across the country. The Seneca Rocks Discovery Center offer visitors to explore exhibits that highlight the region’s geology and history. Hikers can also explore the Seneca Rocks Trail, a 3.2 miles round-trip route that leads to an observation deck offering breathtaking views.
4. Family-Friendly Activities
Educational Programs
Canaan Valley Resort State Park offers a variety of educational programs that help visitors learn about the area’s natural environment and outdoor activities. The park provides guided nature walks, where guests can explore trails while learning about plants, wildlife and the history of the valley. Seasonal programs focus on topics like bird watching, forest ecology and wetland conservation, giving visitors a chance to see the park from a new perspective. Events include wildlife talks, astronomy nights and outdoor survival workshops, making it easy for visitors to engage with nature in a hands-on way.
Scenic Drives
Canaan Valley Resort State Park offers beautiful scenic drives that take visitors through peaceful valleys and scenic overlooks. One of the best routes is Route 32, which passes through Canaan Valley and leads to the charming towns of Davis and Thomas. Along the way, travelers can stop at Blackwater Falls State Park, known for its dramatic waterfall views. Another great drive is Canaan Loop Road, a 19 miles gravel road that passes through Monongahela National Forest. For those looking for high-elevation views, the scenic chairlift ride at the resort provides a unique way to see the valley from above.
Golfing Courses
The Golfing courses in Canaan Valley Resort State Park offers a scenic 18-hole, par 72 golf course, designed by Geoffrey Cornish, that provides a challenge for golfers of all skill levels. The course features 65 sand bunkers and 8 water hazards, making each round interesting while still being accessible for beginners. The fairways are well-maintained and greens are well-kept, providing golfers with a smooth and enjoyable game. The course is open April through early November, and golfers can practice at the driving range, putting green and sand bunker, which are available for warm-ups before a round.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding in Canaan Valley Resort State Park is a great way to explore the landscapes of Allegheny Mountains. Visitors can enjoy guided trail rides through forests, meadows and rolling hills, taking in views of the valley along the way. Mountain Trail Rides offers horseback riding experiences for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders. The rides range from short half-hour trips to longer 2 hours adventures, allowing guests to choose the experience that best fits their schedule. Each rider is matched with a horse based on size and ability, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
Wildlife and Bird Watching
Canaan Valley Resort State Park is a great place for wildlife and bird watching, with a variety of habitats that support many species. The park is home to white-tailed deer, black bears, bobcats and red foxes, which can often be spotted in open fields or near wooded areas. Bird watchers will find plenty to see, including red-tailed hawks, eastern bluebirds and golden eagles, along with seasonal migratory birds that pass through the valley. The best spots for bird watching include Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge, where visitors can explore trails and viewing areas designed for spotting wildlife.
5. Natural Attractions
Canaan Valley Wildlife Refuge
The Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area known for its high-elevation wetlands, forests and open meadows. It was established in 1994 as the 500th National Wildlife Refuge in the United States, helping to preserve rare plant and animal species. The refuge covers over 16,600 acres, making it the largest wetland complex of its kind in the state. Visitors can explore hiking trails, boardwalks and scenic overlooks, offering chances to see white-tailed deer, bobcats and birds. The refuge is open year-round, though conditions vary by season, so checking the weather is recommended.
Timberline Mountain
The Timberline Mountain is a popular ski destination in Canaan Valley, offering a mix of slopes for skiers of all skill levels. The resort features two high-speed chairlifts, including a six-person lift that takes visitors to the top quickly. The mountain has over 1,000 feet of vertical drop, making it one of the best spots for skiing in the region. The longest run, Salamander stretching 2 miles, providing a scenic and relaxing ride down the mountain. Timberline is known for its well-groomed trails and reliable snow conditions, also offering ski and snowboard rentals, along with lessons for those new to the sport.
Blackwater Falls
The Blackwater Falls is one of the most visited attractions in West Virginia, known for its 57 foot cascade of dark, amber-colored water. The falls get their unique color from tannic acid released by fallen hemlock and red spruce needles, giving the water a tea-like shade. Visitors can reach the falls by following boardwalks and viewing platforms, offering great spots for photos. The park has 20 miles of hiking trails, leading to other scenic locations like Elakala Falls, Lindy Point and Pendleton Point Overlook. The best time to visit is spring through fall, though winter provides a unique icy view of the falls.
How to Reach Canaan Valley Resort State Park
Canaan Valley Resort State Park is easy to reach by car, with multiple major routes leading to the area. Travelers coming from Washington, D.C., and Northern Virginia can take I-66 West to I-81 South, then follow US 48 West to Davis, before turning onto Route 32 South. Those traveling from Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania, can take I-79 South to Morgantown, then follow I-68 East to Route 42 South, which connects to Route 219 South leading to Thomas, WV, and finally Route 32 South into Canaan Valley.
Visitors coming from Columbus, or Parkersburg, can take Route 50 East to Clarksburg, then follow I-79 South to Route 33 East, turning onto Route 32 North at Harman. For those flying in, the nearest major airport is North Central West Virginia Airport (CKB) in Bridgeport, about a 2 hours drive from the park. Larger airports, such as Dulles International Airport (IAD), located about 3.5 hours away, may require connecting flights. From either airport, travelers can rent a car for the scenic drive to the park, with routes passing through mountain landscapes.
Local Transportation
Visitors need to rely on their personal vehicles, rental cars and shuttle services to get around Canaan Valley Resort State Park. The park is located in a remote mountain area, making driving the most convenient way to explore. Parking is available at the main lodge, trailheads and activity areas, with plenty of space for guests. Some visitors choose to rent bikes to explore nearby trails, especially during warmer months. The resort offers seasonal shuttle services for guests staying at the lodge, helping them reach ski slopes and other attractions.
For those arriving by air, rental cars are available at North Central West Virginia Airport (CKB) and Dulles International Airport (IAD), making it easy to drive to the park. Since the area has limited rideshare options, planning transportation in advance is recommended. Whether driving, biking, or using resort shuttles, visitors can easily navigate Canaan Valley Resort State Park and enjoy its outdoor activities.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is the best time to visit Canaan Valley Resort State Park?
The best time to visit Canaan Valley Resort State Park depends on your interests. Winter is ideal for skiing and snow activities, while summer offers great hiking and outdoor adventures. Fall is particularly beautiful for viewing the changing foliage, and spring brings a burst of wildflowers and fresh greenery. Each season offers its own unique experiences, so choose the time that best aligns with your plans.
2. What activities are available at Canaan Valley Resort State Park?
Canaan Valley Resort State Park offers a wide range of activities throughout the year. In the winter, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing at the park’s ski area. During the warmer months, the park is perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and golfing. The scenic trails and stunning vistas make it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, you can explore the park’s lakes and streams for fishing or simply relax and take in the natural beauty.
3. Are there dining options available within the park?
Yes, Canaan Valley Resort State Park has several dining options for guests. The main lodge features a restaurant where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a view of the surrounding mountains. There are also casual dining options and snack bars located throughout the park. For a more laid-back experience, you might choose to cook in one of the cabins or cottages, which come with full kitchens.
4. Are there any guided tours or programs available?
Canaan Valley Resort State Park occasionally offers guided tours and educational programs, especially during peak seasons. These might include nature walks, wildlife observation, and historical tours of the area. The park’s visitor center or lodge can provide information on current programs and schedules. Joining a guided tour can be a great way to learn more about the park’s natural and cultural history.
5. Can I rent equipment for outdoor activities at the park?
Yes, you can rent equipment for various outdoor activities at Canaan Valley Resort State Park. In the winter, the park’s ski and snowboarding area offers rental gear for skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. During the summer, you can rent mountain bikes, fishing equipment, and other recreational gear. It’s a good idea to check the park’s website or call ahead to ensure availability and reserve your equipment.
