Blackwater Falls
Blackwater Falls, a 57-foot-tall fall of amber water in Tucker County's Allegheny Mountains, is colored by the tannic acid of needles from red spruce and hemlock trees that have fallen to the ground. The falls are among the most popular picture locations in the state, along with a number of other park attractions including Elakala Falls, Lindy Point Lookout, and Pendleton Point. Visitors may use the observatory or stroll to the falls to take in the breathtaking sights at any time of year.
At the top of Blackwater Canyon, the Blackwater River's "Great Falls" plunge 62 feet (19 meters). The major ledge is composed of Connoquenessing sandstone of the Middle Pottsville Formation. The Blackwater Falls are usually described as the state's highest above-ground falls (although there are greater cave falls). Visitors can instantly recognize the falls through a stone highlight located near the center of the Falls that divides its waters into a distinctive volume. In winter, the falls often freeze completely. A wide trail descends about 320 feet (98 m) extending from the Falls parking lot to a wooden walkway. You can also see a steeper trail extending beyond the basin below the Falls.
In short, Blackwater Falls:
- A 57-foot-tall fall of amber water in Tucker County's Allegheny Mountains.
- Are among the most popular picture locations in the state.
- Visitors may use the observatory or stroll to the falls to take in the breathtaking sights at any time of year
