Explore the highlands
Compare owner-curated outdoor adventures, family activities, shopping, and relaxation by area, season, weather, and estimated drive time from Trail Magic Chalet.
These are the places we share with guests at Trail Magic Chalet, our family-owned rental in Canaan Valley. Use the guide to plan your visit, whether you're staying with us or exploring the area.
Davis activities are generally about 10 to 20 minutes from the chalet. Start with Blackwater Falls State Park for the area's landmark waterfall and trails, pair the Davis Riverwalk with time downtown, or browse outdoor gear and local apparel at The Davis Depot.
Thomas options are about 13 to 15 minutes away. Prepared hikers and mountain bikers can tackle the Blackwater Canyon Trail, while The Adventure Guild and Bright Bear Yoga offer weather-flexible ways to extend or soften a downtown visit.
Many Canaan Valley activities are only 5 to 13 minutes from the chalet. Choose Timberline Mountain for downhill skiing, Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge for trails and wildlife viewing, or Canaan Valley Spa & Wellness Center for post-adventure recovery.
Choose one town for a relaxed outing rather than trying to fit everything into one day. These are flexible sequences, not timed tours: check official opening hours, weather, and trail conditions, and allow time to drive between stops.
Leave room in the itinerary for a slower evening. The chalet has space to relax together, play a game, or talk over the day before heading out to explore again.
Take a look around the chalet.
Our four-bedroom Canaan Valley vacation rental sleeps up to 10 guests and has a covered six-person hot tub. Explore the chalet's amenities or check availability for your Canaan Valley stay.
Plan an evening or a weather-flexible day around the live music, local arts, galleries, and family-friendly entertainment of Davis, Thomas, and Tucker County.
A welcoming public library serving Thomas, Davis, and surrounding communities, with adult and children's books, magazines, newspapers, digital materials, and occasional activities.
Our take: The friendly staff and wide variety of books for genres and ages make this unassuming local library a rewarding rainy-day stop for the whole family.
A downtown Thomas game shop with board games, role-playing games, graphic novels, miniatures, private gaming rooms, and a game cafe where visitors can borrow a game and play onsite.
Our take: This is one of the area's best rainy-day choices for kids and adults. Game-cafe play is $7.50 per adult or $5 per child ages 5-17 for three hours; confirm current pricing before visiting.
Select Rainy day to find indoor and weather-flexible options across every category, or Kid-friendly when planning for younger guests. Always confirm current hours, age requirements, supervision, and reservations directly with the destination.
For guests staying at the chalet, a rainy afternoon can also mean games, puzzles, books, or a movie together. There's no need to fill every hour with an outing.
Spring, summer, and fall around Canaan Valley bring guided expeditions, state parks, overlooks, waterfalls, trails, wildlife, golf, paddling, fishing, and memorable mountain day trips.
A Davis-based nonprofit outdoor education program offering youth summer day camps and overnight camps and expeditions, adult adventures, and custom group trips. Programs explore the mountains, valleys, and rivers of Appalachia through activities such as hiking, backpacking, biking, paddling, rafting, and caving.
Our take: APEX is an exceptional way to experience the region with knowledgeable local instructors. Programs welcome children, teens, adults, families, schools, teams, and private groups, making this a strong option when you would rather join a guided adventure than plan every detail yourself.
A landmark state park centered on the amber waters of Blackwater Falls, with overlooks, more than 20 miles of trails, and year-round recreation.
Our take: The falls are an essential first visit, but the park rewards extra time for trails, overlooks, Pendleton Lake, and seasonal activities.
An easy public path follows 1,000 feet of Blackwater River frontage in downtown Davis and adjoins the five-acre Town of Davis Riverfront Park. The former Babcock Lumber Company mill and West Virginia Railroad site adds a glimpse into the town's industrial past.
Our take: Pair this gentle riverfront walk with time on William Avenue for a low-key outing that connects Davis's present-day mountain-town life with the lumber era that shaped it.
Harold S. Walters Nature Center at Blackwater Falls State Park features wildlife, interpretive, and historical exhibits, live animal displays, an indoor classroom, meeting space, a small retail shop, scheduled activities, guided hikes, naturalist-led programs, an outdoor interpretive area, and a playground.
Our take: This is a welcoming, kid-friendly stop near Pendleton Lake, whether you join a program or explore the exhibits before heading outside. Hours vary by season, so check the current schedule before visiting.
This rugged 10.5-mile dirt-and-gravel rail grade descends from Thomas toward Hendricks through Blackwater Canyon, passing coke ovens, waterfalls, river views, and remnants of the region's railroad history.
Our take: The downhill route from Thomas is best suited to prepared hikers and wide-tire bikes. The trail is unmaintained in places, so check conditions, carry repair supplies, and arrange a shuttle unless you are ready to climb back to Thomas.
The nation's 500th national wildlife refuge protects West Virginia's largest wetland complex, along with forest and meadow habitat for migratory birds, rare plants, and other wildlife. Visitors can explore trails, wildlife viewing areas, and the visitor center.
Our take: The refuge is one of the best places to slow down and experience what makes Canaan Valley ecologically distinctive. Start at the visitor center, then choose a trail based on the weather and how much time your group has.
An 18-hole, par-72 course at Canaan Valley Resort State Park with a driving range, putting green, clubhouse, pro shop, and rental equipment. The course typically operates from spring through fall, weather permitting.
Our take: The mountain setting makes this a scenic choice for a full round, and reserving a tee time ahead is wise during busy weekends.
A seasonal outdoor pool at Canaan Valley Resort State Park that welcomes resort guests and day visitors.
Our take: For a slower summer afternoon, the pool is a convenient place to cool off without leaving the valley. Day admission also makes it useful when you are not staying at the resort.
Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge sits about 3,200 feet above sea level and protects an expansive high-elevation wetland landscape. On a clear, dark night with little cloud cover or nearby outdoor lighting, the valley can offer striking views of the stars and a possible glimpse of the Milky Way.
Another nearby option is Blackwater Falls State Park
Explore another viewing location at Canaan Valley Resort State Park
Our take: For the best chance of a clear view, choose a moonless night and keep nearby lights low. For darker skies, try Dolly Sods or Spruce Knob, and check road conditions before heading out after dark.
Dolly Sods, WV
A 477-acre public preserve where windswept heath barrens, red spruce, boulders, and broad mountain views create one of West Virginia's signature landscapes.
Our take: Bear Rocks is a favorite for sunrise and landscape photography, and it feels unlike almost anywhere else in the state. Protect the fragile habitat by staying on established paths and checking road conditions before the trip.
Parsons, WV
A Cheat River outfitter offering whitewater rafting, relaxed flatwater trips and rentals, tubing, and guided fishing.
Our take: The range of trips makes this a strong choice for both thrill seekers and families looking for a gentler day on the water. Match the outing to your group's ages and comfort level when booking.
Parsons, WV
This historic fire tower stands at 3,736 feet on Backbone Mountain. When forest roads are snow-free, visitors can climb 133 steps to just below the locked cabin for broad views of Blackwater Canyon, Parsons, Canaan Mountain, and the Cheat River watershed.
Our take: The tower is a worthwhile warm-weather side trip for expansive views and fire-tower history. Expect an unpaved forest-road approach, no restrooms or potable water, and confirm current road conditions before setting out.
Seneca Rocks, WV
One of West Virginia's best-known landmarks rises nearly 900 feet above the North Fork River, with a steep 1.3-mile trail from the Discovery Center to an observation platform and technical climbing on the quartzite fins.
Our take: The hike is strenuous but delivers a classic valley view. Rock climbing requires appropriate experience and equipment; first-time climbers should arrange a trip with a qualified local guide.
Cabins, WV
Guided cavern tours descend through unusual formations and rooms beneath the North Fork Mountain area near Seneca Rocks.
Our take: The cool underground setting makes this a memorable family outing and a useful choice for a hot or rainy day. Check current tour times before making the drive.
Riverton, WV
At 4,863 feet, Spruce Knob is West Virginia's highest point, with a stone observation tower, a short accessible Whispering Spruce Trail, picnic areas, and broad Allegheny views.
Our take: Make this a deliberate high-country outing rather than a quick add-on. The final mountain roads are slow and exposed to fast-changing weather, so check conditions and leave plenty of daylight.
Oakland, MD
Swallow Falls State Park's 1.25-mile trail passes the 53-foot Muddy Creek Falls and a rocky Youghiogheny River gorge, while the nearby Deep Creek Lake area adds beaches, paddling, trails, and the Discovery Center.
Our take: The two areas combine well into a full day across the Maryland line. Start at Swallow Falls, then choose a lake activity or meal around Deep Creek; summer weekend and holiday visits to Swallow Falls may require a day-use reservation.
Grafton, WV
A seasonal water park at Tygart Lake State Park with 25 inflatable obstacles, a beachside lounge, and kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals. All water-park participants must wear a life jacket and complete a waiver.
Our take: This is a fun summer day trip for groups who want more action than a quiet lake outing. State-park admission is free, but Adventure Lake is a paid activity; reserve ahead and confirm operating hours because changing lake levels can affect the schedule.
Seneca Rocks, WV
Experienced guides lead seasonal horseback rides to the top of Seneca Rocks, with first-time riders welcome.
Our take: This is a distinctive way to experience Seneca Rocks without hiking to the overlook. Standard rides are for ages six and older, and reservations are suggested.
Mountain weather, trail conditions, and seasonal operating hours can change quickly. Check each destination's official website before leaving, especially for equipment rentals, reservations, pet rules, and age requirements.
Guests are welcome to borrow the adventure backpack in the mudroom and return it neatly afterward. Outdoor field guides in the tall green cabinet in the living room can help identify local plants, birds, wildlife, and other species along the way.
Start with the Monongahela National Forest maps and guides, plus official trail information from Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Blackwater Falls State Park, and the Monongahela National Forest's Dolly Sods Wilderness guide. The refuge offers 29 miles of trails and a boardwalk, while the state park and national forest cover everything from short waterfall walks to rugged backcountry routes.
Dolly Sods is extraordinary, but it has also become very popular. Arrive with a backup plan, check Forest Service alerts and weather, and expect limited parking and company at the busiest trailheads. The Tucker County biking guide is a useful starting point for local singletrack, gravel rides, rail trails, and bike shops. For a vivid introduction to one of the wilderness area's most powerful waterways, watch Mountain River Media's The Red Creek Sessions.
A little kindness goes a long way out there: greet people, yield with care, keep noise modest, and leave room for different ages and abilities. The Outdoor Code and Leave No Trace principles are quick, practical refreshers for taking care of the places everyone came to enjoy.
The Blackwater River, Red Creek, Dry Fork, Thomas City Park, and other nearby waters offer trout, warm-water fishing, and excellent fly-fishing possibilities. The small stormwater pond across from Shop 'n Save in Davis is also used locally, but confirm current access and obey any posted rules before fishing there.
Conditions, access, stocking, and special rules vary by water. Review the current West Virginia fishing regulations, license information, stocking reports, and public access map before heading out, and respect private property as carefully as fish and creel limits.
For local ideas, see the Tucker County fishing guide. Anglers who want instruction or local knowledge can also look into a fly-fishing guide such as Three Rivers Guiding.
WVDNR's annual Free Fishing Days include the Bowden Fish Hatchery Youth Fishing Derby, held east of Elkins near Bowden rather than on Dry Fork. The free event gives children scheduled opportunities to fish at the hatchery; check the current event page for the date, grade groups, registration form, and what to bring.
The WVDNR youth fishing guide also explains license exemptions for young anglers and points families toward beginner-friendly events and public waters.
Gentler stretches of the upper Blackwater River can work for canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and, where water level and access allow, tubing. River conditions change, so wear a properly fitted life jacket, check the weather and water level, and understand your route, hazards, and take-out before launching.
From Davis, follow Camp 70 Road near Shop 'n Save and Dollar General for about four miles to the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge's ADA-accessible canoe and kayak launch. Camp 70 is a gravel road that can be rough; the Mon Forest Towns access guide provides directions, and the refuge visitor information is the best place to check current conditions and rules.
To understand the whitewater history and community downstream, we highly recommend Justin Harris's award-winning documentary Freeland: A Blackwater Story. It is an excellent watch even when paddling is not part of the trip.
Canaan Valley winters offer downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, sledding, snow tubing, ice skating, and seasonal gear shops close to Trail Magic Chalet.
Blackwater Falls State Park's ticketed sled run is the longest of its kind on the East Coast, with a conveyor carrying riders back uphill.
Our take: This is a standout winter outing that turns a snowy day into a full family adventure. The run operates seasonally when conditions allow, so check dates and ticket availability before heading over.
A full-service Davis ski and snowboard shop offering rentals and demos, winter gear and boots, expert repairs, tuning, waxing, and binding services.
Our take: This is the local stop for properly fitted rental gear, knowledgeable advice, and last-minute equipment service before a mountain day. The shop operates seasonally, so check current hours before visiting.
A seasonal covered outdoor ice rink behind the main lodge, with skate rental included in each two-hour session.
Our take: Skate under the covered pavilion with mountain views, then warm up by the outdoor fireplace between laps. Rentals are included, which keeps the outing easy for families.
A state-park ski area with 26 trails for beginner through advanced skiers and snowboarders. The resort offers lessons, equipment rentals, RFID lift access, and an adaptive ski program.
Our take: Canaan Valley Resort is the place to be on a true WV powder day! It is a versatile downhill option for mixed-experience groups. Some of the best local ski instructors teach here as well.
A 1,200-foot tubing park with multiple lanes and a lift back to the top. Sessions require tickets, and riders must meet the resort's current height and safety requirements.
Our take: The lift-served tubing park is a popular, easy-to-plan winter outing for families and groups, with no skiing or snowboarding experience required.
The Canaan Valley branch of a regional ski and snowboard outfitter offering seasonal rentals, retail gear, outerwear, accessories, waxing, tuning, binding service, and equipment repairs.
Our take: A convenient stop for rental packages, junior gear, helmets, and equipment service on the way through the valley. Ski and snowboard services are seasonal, so check current hours and reserve online when winter weekends are busy.
A downhill ski and snowboard area with 22 trails, two terrain parks, two chairlifts, and two beginner carpet lifts. Lessons and rental equipment are available for newcomers.
Our take: Since 2019, Timberline has added West Virginia's first high-speed six-person chairlift, substantially upgraded its snowmaking and grooming, and refreshed the lodge and rental shop. Most recently, it built a new ski school building right by the beginner's slope. It is an outstanding choice for a full day on the mountain.
An internationally known cross-country ski and snowshoe center with more than 50 kilometers of maintained trails, rentals, and lessons. Its laid-back day lodge provides access to terrain ranging from approachable beginner routes to high-country touring.
Our take: White Grass is one of our favorite winter stops. It is a welcoming place to learn cross-country skiing, and its beloved cafe has served hearty, homestyle food to skiers for more than 40 years. You will often find a fire outside where you can warm up between outings.
Before visiting White Grass, watch Justin Harris's Freeland: A White Grass Story. The film captures the ski community, its relationship with whitewater, and the river that connects them.
Northpoint sometimes has suitable places to sled, but use caution, choose only a safe area where you have permission, and respect all private property. Bring your own sled or toboggan, supervise children closely, and stay clear of roads, vehicles, trees, structures, and other hazards.
Back at Trail Magic Chalet, the boot and glove dryer helps get gear ready for tomorrow, while the wood fireplace and covered hot tub make a slower evening inviting.
Browse independent shops, markets, and locally made goods in downtown Thomas, Davis, and nearby mountain communities.
A riverside Davis distillery producing VicBob's apple brandies and maple moonshine, Holl'r Girl liqueurs and flavored moonshine, and craft cocktails.
Our take: A great stop for distinctly local spirits, especially the VicBob's products tied closely to the distillery's identity.
A downtown Davis shop carrying quality T-shirts, lifestyle apparel, and new and used consignment outdoor gear, with trail and area information for visitors.
Our take: Stop in for locally themed apparel, practical outdoor gear, or a little trail advice before exploring the area. The used-gear selection makes each visit worth a fresh look.
Harman, WV
Ben and EMay's small-scale Highlands farm produces raw varietal honey, two-year-aged unsulfited Honey River meads, salves, candles, and other bee products.
Our take: This is the honey and mead farm stand worth seeking out for a distinctly local purchase. Tastings and honey-house or winery tours are by appointment, so call before setting out.
Elkins, WV
Rosalie Haizlett's downtown Elkins studio and storefront features her nature-inspired art prints, illustrated books, stationery, stickers, pins, apparel, and other goods.
Our take: We bought our first Rosalie Haizlett print at Lost River Trading Post, and Meander is the place to explore her work directly from the artist. The shop is open by appointment or when the ART sign is outside.
Harman, WV
A family-owned farm-to-bottle distillery making traditional mountain-style whiskeys, single-barrel bourbon, and botanical infusions onsite in Harman.
Our take: Still Hollow is a rewarding back-road destination for guests interested in West Virginia distilling. The tasting room operates seasonally, so check its current status before making the drive.
Wardensville, WV
A modern mountain general store in a historic feed building near the former Wardensville railroad station, serving coffee and baked goods alongside local treats, art, jewelry, antiques, and artisan-made finds.
Our take: The coffee and baked goods are excellent, and browsing the local finds is half the fun. This is where we bought our first Rosalie Haizlett print. Wardensville is far out of the way for a chalet-day outing, but it is a terrific stop on the drive home, especially for guests heading toward Northern Virginia.
Slow down between mountain adventures with massage, restorative spa treatments, sauna and salt therapy, yoga, and other wellness experiences in Canaan Valley.
A welcoming Thomas yoga studio offering in-person and virtual classes, including yoga fundamentals, slow-flow vinyasa, restorative practices, and mat Pilates. Drop-ins are welcome, with mats and props available in the studio.
Our take: Bright Bear offers a welcome pause between active mountain days. Check the current schedule and book ahead because the in-person class lineup changes from week to week.
A full-service wellness retreat just off Timberline Road offering massage and couples massage, mineral soaks, facials, infrared sauna, salt therapy, yoga, fitness, Reiki, and other restorative experiences.
Mark Bowe and the Barnwood Builders team helped construct the spa, with the project featured across two episodes of their television series. Watch “Community Building” on discovery+.
Our take: The massages are excellent and make this one of the best ways to recover after skiing, hiking, or a long drive into the valley. Reserve ahead when possible, especially for weekends and couples treatments.
Check live availability for a Canaan Valley stay near Davis, Thomas, hiking, and winter adventures.
