Explore WV Potomac Highlands Regional Guide

Tucker County

GET TUCKER’D

I f you are looking for a place to visit that feels like it is worlds away but is convenient and easy to get to, thenWest Virginia’s Canaan Valley is the place for you. Canaan Valley is the highest valley east of the Mississippi, encompassing some of the most majestic scenery in the highlands. That, coupled with quirky towns like Thomas and Davis , makes it an all-around great place to visit. Here, travel destinations outnumber traffic lights four to one. Experience jaw-dropping sunrises and sunsets at some of the region’s most revered scenic overlooks, like Blackwater Falls, Lindy Point, or Bear Rocks . Pull on a pair of waders and grab your fishing pole—our rivers provide some of the best angling experiences around. Speaking of rivers, rent a kayak or canoe from Blackwater Outdoor Adventures . Or sign up for one of their whitewater rafting or “duckie” trips for a memorable adventure down a 5-mile stretch of the Cheat River. If you prefer to tour by twowheels, enjoy the AlleghenyHighlands rail-trail. After descending on the trail into Parsons, grab a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants. Pop up a tent or park your camper at one of the area’smany great campsites. For a scenic camping spot right on the Shavers Fork River, check out FiveRiver Campground in Parsons. In the winter, the area is transformed into a Nordic wonderland. Tucker County is blessed

with two premier amenity-filled state parks: Blackwater Falls State Park and Canaan Valley State Park . Destinations in their own right, they provide a plethora of relaxation and recreational activities no matter the season. Both state parks offer winter activities from skiing and tubing to sledding and ice skating. Or consider other popular destinations, like Timberline Mountain and White Grass Ski Touring Center . Often considered one of the best ski areas in the region, Timberline has new owners, and its much-anticipated reopening with updated equipment and facilities happened in 2020 as Timberline Mountain. Looking to explore the backcountry? White Grass offers well-maintained cross country skiing and snowshoeing trails. While the climate is great year ’round for every outdoor activity imaginable, it’s also perfect for breweries. Fill a growler or two at Stumptown Ales or Mountain State Brewery , then head to the infamous Purple Fiddle for an evening of foot stomping music. When you are just plain tuckered out, there are plenty of lodging options. In addition to Canaan Valley Resort and Blackwater Falls State Park, there’s everything from camping and RV sites to Airbnbs and bed and breakfasts to vacation home rentals and cabins. canaanvalley.org

Annual Events Regional events draw legions of fans. The July 4th Fireworks Celebration is unrivaled, one of the best displays you’ll ever see. Take a blanket or a chair and watch fromdowntownThomas. Each August, thousands of bluegrass fans around the country attend Pickin’ in Parsons . The spring Wildflower Pilgrimage is a must-attend for flower lovers, and the annual CanaanMountain Bike Festival in late June draws mountain biking enthusiasts to the area. If you are looking for a fall getaway, celebrate the colorful foliage during the Leaf Peepers Festival , held the last full weekend of September in Davis.

Blackwater Falls

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