Location: Davis
Top Things to do in Davis
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Things to do in Davis, West Virginia (WV): The Best Nature & Parks
Davis is a town in Tucker County, West Virginia, along the Blackwater River. The population was 660 at the 2010 census.
Restaurants in Davis
1. Mountain Trail Rides Horseback Riding & More
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 79 reviews
Explore the ancient Appalachian mountains the way they were intended to be explored: On the back of a horse! With scenic views and a trusty mount, there is no better way to experience Canaan Valley. For over 20 years, Mountain Trail Rides has supplied families with a life time of memories, whether it's at the top of the mountain or in the depth of the woods. Kick back at the shop, play with barnyard critters, or explore the underground gem mine. There's family fun for everyone!
Reviewed By WVTeacher20 - Sistersville, United States
My husband and I were spending a few days in the area with two grandchildren and looking for something to do. We found this and called the next morning to make same-day reservations. Our grandchildren (ages 6 and 8), and my husband had never ridden horses, and I have limited experience. The facility is small but clean and charming. The staff was very friendly. Our guide, Kristen, was wonderful with the children (we learned she was a preschool teacher). Each child was on his/her own horse, and the horses were placid and very well-trained. We followed Kristen on her horse in single file through the breathtaking scenery of the Canaan National Park. Birds were singing as we rode through fields of wildflowers, then entered shady woods with bright green ferns bordering the path. We couldn’t have had a better experience as beginners.
2. Blackwater Falls State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,006 reviews
- Located in the Allegheny Mountains of Tucker County, Blackwater Falls State Park is named for the amber waters of Blackwater Falls, a 57-foot cascade tinted by the tannic acid of fallen hemlock and red spruce needles. The falls, along with a few of the park’s other features like Elakala Falls, Lindy Point and Pendleton Point Overlook, are some of the state’s most photographed spots. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views year-round by taking the steps to the falls or using viewing platforms. The park has 20 miles of hiking trails, the longest sledding magic carpet on the East Coast, a comfortable lodge and more.
Reviewed By WiseWomanWanderer - Mount Orab, United States
If you want some R&R (rest and relaxation), then this place is for you! And if you are a hiker, then you will also experience lots of RRR&R which is rocks, roots, rain (water), and rhododendron!! Yep, most of these trails will have at least 2 or 3 of these features, and many trails have all 4. But it is OK. Most trails were reasonably flat and short, but could be extended for much longer. The rocks and roots were not much problem - just made the trails interesting. The rhododendron were really pretty, and probably gorgeous when in bloom. Some of these plants extended into the path which could be a problem during tick season. But the rain (water) was not pleasant. The rocks and roots were quite slippery. And the boggy areas were quite difficult. Nevertheless, I still really enjoyed the trails. Of course, any trip to this state park absolutely must include Blackwater Falls! I suggest the boardwalk and the gentle trail although the gentle trail can be skipped if you are short on time. Yes, there are lots of steps (200!) on this boardwalk, but the view is worth it. I never get tired of water falls. Just so much energy! Ekalala Falls is another not to be missed trail which starts on the far right of the lodge as you are looking at the lodge. Lots of wet rocks and roots. The bridge overlooks the falls which are directly underneath. Even though there is no definitive trail down to water level, you can make it if you want to risk even more wet rocks and roots. Again, it is worth it, but be careful! Ekalala Falls Trail ends at the road and Balanced Rock Trail starts at the road. Again, RRR&R. The rock formation is large, but not huge. Interesting how the formation was made just from one rock. While you are in the park, check out the various overlooks. There are 2-3 roadside overlooks. Lindy Point is just a short 1/2 mile walk (RRR&R). Pace Point is about 1.3 or 1.7 miles one way (depending who you ask) and is quite doable. Pendleton Point is directly across the canyon from the lodge. If you would like to go down to the water front, head to the bridge that crosses over Blackwater River and park in the small lot. Immediately to the left of the sign that says Catch and Release, you will see a small opening and a trail that takes you down to the water front. Sitting on those rocks and listening to the river was so peaceful. Even though not in the park, Abrams Falls and Douglas Falls are close enough to be considered part of the park. They are just south of the neighboring town of Thomas. (Please see my review of Douglas Falls.) Blackwater Canyon Trail starts at Douglas Falls. This trail could be called rrr&r because it had so little rocks, roots, rain, and rhododendron which makes it really easy to walk. The trail varies from about 2-3 feet to more than 8-10 feet, but does descend downhill for at least the first mile or so that I traversed. I found out later that the trail is 19 miles one direction. I always stop to get a book from an insider about the trails in the area. However, the nature center and the lodge gift shop told me that they did not know about such a book for this park. Well, the next day I found a brochure in the lodge gift shop that opened up really large and that contained tons of trails throughout Tucker County including Canaan Valley and Dolly Sods and Monongahela Forest and more. If you are an avid hiker, you need this brochure. I stayed at the Blackwater Falls State Park Lodge. Please check out my review. And I traveled with my dog. Dogs were allowed on all of the trails, but must be on a leash. Here is my 3 night itinerary... Friday: Blackwater Falls Boardwalk Trail, Blackwater Falls Gentle Trail, Pendleton Point Overlook, Lindy Point Overlook Saturday: Ekalala Falls, Balanced Rock, Pace Point Sunday: Abrams Falls, Douglas Falls, Blackwater Canyon Trail, Catch and Release area of Blackwater River near bridge, loop near the lodge (Lodge to Water Tank Trail to Red Srice Trail to Davis Trail to Stemwinder Trail, to Red Spruce Trail to Water Tank Trail to Lodge), Blackwater Falls Boardwalkd Trail, Pendleton Point Overlook
3. Canaan Valley Resort
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 231 reviews
Reviewed By Hogweed - Yorktown, United States
We stayed here for three days. We had a beautiful room with a balcony. We visited all three of the restaurants and we were not disappointed. A lot of the restaurants in town were closed. They also served local beer from the tap which I enjoyed. The trails around the park were all gorgeous and full of breathtaking beauty around every corner. I highly recommend the Blackwater Falls trail. I found the staff helpful and prompt. I was overcharged initially but the matter was quickly rectified. I look forward to staying in the cabins next time we come.
4. Little Canaan Wildlife Management Area
5. Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 14 reviews
Reviewed By lrf66 - Cabot, United States
Main building was closed due to COVID-19, but we were still able to hike the trails in the area. Well maintained. We particularly enjoyed the elevated walkway through the marsh. We were able to take our relative who was in a wheelchair on the walkway.
6. Fairfax Stone State Park
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 43 reviews
Fairfax Stone State Park is comprised of four acres and named after the Fairfax Stone, a surveyor’s marker and boundary stone used in the 1700s to settle a dispute over land in the English colonies of Maryland and Virginia. One of the oldest markers in the United States, the stone rests at the junction of Tucker, Grant and Preston counties and marks the boundary between Maryland and West Virginia.
7. Timberline Mountain
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 183 reviews
Fred Herz was camping in the Canaan Valley in 1985, while sitting by a camp fire, staring up at a mountain he thought that it would be a great place to ski. He convinced his entire family to buy into his idea and create Timberline Four Seasons Resort. in 1986 Timberline opened for business. Fred is a true visionary. Today we are proud to state that we have the longest trail south of Vermont, the highest average vertical in the SE, and the best glade skiing south of New England. Our ski school accommodates skiers of all ages, and we have a program for guest with disabilities to be able to get out and enjoy our slopes. Our most proud accomplishment, however, is in helping preserve the highlands ecosystem.The Cheat Mountain salamander, a threatened species that is unique to West Virginia, may have a shot at recovery, thanks to conservation efforts that are underway at Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge.
Reviewed By mericamichael - Harrisonburg, United States
I visited Timberline Mountain twice in March 2021. This was my first time visiting the resort and I went twice within a week because it was so fun. The lodge was very clean and the staff was very welcoming. The slopes are awesome! They were perfectly groomed from edge to edge both visits. They had plenty of slopes to accommodate all skill levels, the 2 mile Salamander green slope (easy) was quite fun to cruise and crave. Twister is a blue slope that is super fun that takes you through 2 tunnels and a extremely cool neighborhood. The high speed lift to the top is very impressive, it only takes about 4 minutes to the top. To enter the lift loading area they have RFID lift tickets which were very convenient. We ate lunch in the cafeteria area and enjoyed a huge burger, grilled chicken sandwich and some really good fries. This place is definitely worth the trip and if your close enough purchase a season pass.
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