Blackwater Falls State Park is a beloved West Virginia attraction, but not everyone knows how much fun it can be in the winter! Take a look at what might just be the best place to go sledding in the eastern US.
Blackwater Falls State Park has the longest sledding run East of the Mississippi.
There was nothing quite like standing at the overlook of the Grandview in New River Gorge National Park. This stunning horseshoe bend is mesmerizing to see but it is just one of the many places you can see along a scenic drive in and around the national park. Gather everyone and hop in the car for an adventure to the mountains to see the wonders of West Virginia with plenty of surprises along the way.
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When we visited New River Gorge, we started south and worked our way up I77. What we thought would have been a normal interstate road ended up being quite a fun start for our adventure. The interstate was filled with mountain views as far as the eye could see and tunnels, which are always a blast to drive through. The scenery started long before we got into the national park, and we still had many more surprises in store along the way.
The first thing that anyone should do when visiting the park is to see the New River Bridge. This engineering marvel spans the gap of the gorge and is a dizzying 876 feet above the water! You can drive over it and then stop at the visitor center to get a good view of the bridge by taking the Canyon Rim Overlook Boardwalk Trail. This is a simple walk down the steps but be prepared for a lot of them. Once you get this view of the bridge, it will all be worth the effort.
On our day exploring the park we knew another must-see was Grandview. As we worked our way around the park, which is very spread out, we eventually ended up at this amazing overlook. This part of the national park was filled with green space to use for a picnic or to enjoy the day in the sun with your family. After a short walk, we were greeted with this jaw-dropping view.
After soaking in the view, we decided to take another short trail, which ended up being one of the highlights of the trip: the Tunnel Trail. This short half-mile hike had us winding through the forest and witnessing some of the best rock formations in the park. We passed countless tunnels and caves cut into the rocks with towering walls and large boulders everywhere. We followed stairs, boardwalks, and mountainous paths for a wild adventure.
I can never pass up a good waterfall and the best one at New River Gorge is Sandstone Falls. This is a little out of the way from everything else in the park but trust me when I say it is a worth detour. Take the easy boardwalk trail to see countless waterfalls along the river and explore the area to find all of these wondrous cascades.
Grandview in New River Gorge National Park is a must-see in the park, but if you just allow the beauty of this mountainous place to wash over you, there is so much more to enjoy. Take a scenic drive, hike a few trails, and you can easily soak up all of this within a day. When you hop into the car, don’t forget to bring along some of the best road trip snacks and have your AllTrails app ready for your trails. To see more check out this video we made of Grandview and the Tunnel Trail to help gain some perspective.
If you're visiting West Virginia or a local looking for a fun weekend, make sure you don't miss the Hickory Dining Room at Canaan Valley Resort State Park. Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, this restaurant offers more than just great food—it's all about the breathtaking views. Here's why this restaurant is a must-visit during your stay at the resort.
The Hickory Dining Room is famous for its stunning panoramic views. With its glass walls, you can enjoy the Canaan Valley vistas while you eat. Imagine sipping coffee as the sun rises over the mountains or having dinner as it sets behind the hills. Whether it's breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the scenery is gorgeous at any time of day or year.
Besides the views, the Hickory Dining Room has a menu with something for everyone. They serve classic American food with a modern twist, using fresh ingredients. They’re open daily and also have special holiday buffets, so it’s a great spot for any occasion.
For lunch, you might enjoy their chef salad or the popular Canaan Angus burger. For dinner, you can try hearty dishes like beef short rib or smothered chicken breast, or seafood options like crab ravioli and shrimp scampi. They even offer vegetarian choices, such as gnocchi with roasted vegetables. Whatever you’re craving, you’ll find it here.
The Hickory Dining Room has a nice mix of casual and elegant. A central fireplace makes the room feel warm and cozy, perfect for relaxing after hiking, skiing, or exploring the park. Whether you’re having a laid-back meal with family or a more intimate dinner, the atmosphere is just right.
The restaurant is very close to the resort's facilities, such as golf courses, pools, and skiing. After a day filled with outdoor activities, it is the perfect place to refuel. If you're planning a weekend getaway or just passing through, it’s also a great pit stop. Plus, it's only a few hours’ drive from cities like Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C., so it's easy to get to.
Dining at the Hickory Dining Room isn’t just about the food -- it’s an experience. Whether you're marking a special occasion or simply enjoying the beauty of West Virginia, you shouldn't miss visiting this restaurant. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture those stunning views!
Be sure to add the Hickory Dining Room to your travel plans when you visit Canaan Valley Resort State Park in Davis, WV. You’ll get to enjoy beautiful nature and delicious food all in one place. For up-to-date details on hours, menu options, and special events, be sure to check out the Canaan Valley Resort State Park website or follow their official Facebook Page.
To make your trip even better, consider exploring local activities and tours in the Canaan Valley area. There are plenty of exciting options to make your stay truly memorable. If you enjoy finding hidden gems, be sure to check out these six roadside restaurants in West Virginia that are worth stopping for.
