Explore Blackwater Falls

Although Blackwater Falls State Park has many notable adventures, it is most well-known for its namesake, Blackwater Falls. Visitors can view the 60-foot falls from three different viewpoints. The most popular (and best) viewpoints are on the north side of the river. Parking is available at the trading post, but if it is full there is additional parking just down the road. From the parking lot, follow the wooden stairs down the canyon. From here there are two viewpoints. The first is a wider view of the falls from a slightly higher elevation. At this overlook you can actually see the second viewpoint near the falls. Both viewpoints are accessed by wooden boardwalks. The total trip is less than a half-mile round trip, but visitors will need to travel up and down 200 stairs.

The third, less popular viewpoint is from the south side of the river. The parking lot for the Gentle Trail is just past the service area on Route 29. As the name suggests, this is a short, paved path suitable for all visitors. The trail leads to an observation deck that provides a glimpse of the top of the falls. While the views from this overlook aren’t nearly as spectacular, its accessibility makes it worth a quick stop.