Escape the Heat on a Cool Summer Getaway in West Virginia’s Canaan Valley
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Summer has arrived, and the heat is starting to. What if there was a spot where you could beat the heat? The Canaan Valley of West Virginia has everything needed to make a perfect, cool getaway. Standing at a higher elevation that most of West Virginia (3,200 feet above sea level), the mountain air brings a euphoric wave across the body. The valley offers many activities to beat that summer heat.
🥾 Morning Hike
Starting in the cool morning of the mountains, Canaan Valley is home to one of the most recognizable waterfalls in the state. Blackwater Falls State Park offers a quick hike (roughly 0.25 miles) down a scenic path towards the waterfall. When you arrive at the waterfall, you will notice the water has a black tinge to it, this is due to natural tannic acid from fallen hemlock and red spruce needles in the water. This makes the Blackwater Falls so iconic to not just the state, but for any nature hikers.
Looking for a trail with a little more of a challenge? Take a hike through the Bald Knob Trail. While being a moderately difficult trail, it is full of breathtaking sights of the Canaan Valley. Sporting 2.2 miles of lush nature and open meadows to explore one of the state’s most popular hiking trails, with a cool breeze included.
🌤️ Midday Exploration
After hiking through nature, take a trip to the town of Davis for some midday shenanigans. The town offers many delicious restaurants to indulge in. Sirianni’s Café is a perfect spot for a quick, tasty lunch, known for its pizzas and stuffed peppers. After filling up, stop over at the WV Highlands Artisans Gallery. Take some time to look at some elegantly crafted pottery, jewelry, and photography from local artists and photographers.
Wanting to keep indulging in the scenic nature, you should check out the Canaan Valley Resort State Parks and the Scenic Chairlifts. A very popular attraction for both tourists and locals alike, the lift hoist riders over 1,200 feet above the valley floor. Giving the riders a sweeping, aerial view of the valley, it is a real sight for anyone wanting to relax in the air.
🌙 Evening Wind Down
After cooling off in Davis, travel south toward Canaan Valley Resort State Park to enjoy some of their outdoor activities. The resort is a fantastic place to go for a swim, with a large outdoor pool open to the public. After cooling off in the pool, travel to Canaan Valley BBQ for a fantastic dinner. Try their authentic pulled pork or their succulent brisket.
Looking for a night of music and magic? The Purple Fiddle has you covered! The famous venue is home to a casual, café-style menu and over 50 micro-brew beers to choose from, but more importantly is the live music. Live shows are played all year round, giving different genres in a true walk of life through music! Giving you a fantastic ending to a perfect day in Canaan Valley.
This post was last updated on June 24, 2026
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