We took a long weekend and headed to Davis, WV. Nestled in the mountains of West Virginia, Davis is a charming small town with stunning waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and family-friendly trails. Whether you’re into hiking, splashing in creeks, or just enjoying mountain views, Davis has something for everyone in the family.
🗺️ Drive time: About 4.5 hours from Cleveland
🏡 Where to stay:
There are lots of great places to stay in and around the Timberline Ski area. We rented a cute Airbnb in a quiet neighborhood with views of the ski mountain. It was very walkable and felt safe for kids — perfect for a family stay.
🌲 Our Favorite Family Friendly Hiking in the Davis Area
Blackwater Falls State Park
- Blackwater Falls Trail – A short 0.4-mile loop with over 200 stairs leading to the stunning Blackwater Falls observation deck.
- Pendleton Point Overlook – A 0.9-mile loop to a gorgeous overlook of the surrounding mountains and valleys
- Elakala Falls Trail – 0.8 miles out and back with beautiful waterfall views and fun rock scrambling for kids.
Dolly Sods Wilderness
Located in the Monongahela National Forest, Dolly Sods is part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. This unique area features much of the Red Creek drainage and is home to bogs and heath ecosystems more commonly found in southern Canada. Elevations range from 2,500 to over 4,700 feet, offering dramatic views and diverse landscapes perfect for hiking and exploring.
We started on the Blackbird Knob Trail, a 4.7-mile out-and-back route. With little kids, we knew we’d turn around when ready — and we ended up hiking about 1.5 miles in to a beautiful viewpoint before heading back. The trail had it all: a small stream to walk through, shady forest, rocky sections for climbing, and amazing views. And maybe you’ll spot a bear! (My dad claims he once saw one while grabbing something from the car — so keep your eyes peeled!)
Canaan Valley Resort State Park
- Deer Run and Abe Run Trail – A 1.5-mile easy loop through woods and wetlands with beautiful scenery.
- While Grandma and Grandpa watched the kids, my husband and I snuck away to golf 9 holes at the Canaan Valley Resort Golf Course, surrounded by peaceful mountain views.
Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge
- Evening Stroll at Beall North and Beall Connector Loop – About 2 miles on a flat gravel path with a mix of open fields, wetlands, and forest.
- Idleman Loop Trail – A short 0.9-mile loop with access to a small creek and cascades — perfect for splashing and cooling off. When we visited, the water flow was strong, but it can vary depending on the season.
⚠️ Know Before You Go
- Trails can have water sections or muddy spots, so bring water shoes and a swimsuit if your kids want to splash.
- Bring plenty of water for everyone — there’s lots of hiking and exploring.
- Some trails have rocks and stairs, so comfortable shoes and sturdy socks are a must.
- Check trail conditions before you go, especially after rain or in spring when streams may be higher.
👨👩👧👦 Why Families Will Love to explore Davis
Davis, WV is perfect for families who love a mix of adventure and relaxation. Kids will enjoy waterfalls, creek splashing, and easy hiking trails, while adults can sneak in a little golf or just soak up the mountain views. With safe, walkable neighborhoods and plenty of lodging options, it’s a stress-free getaway where everyone can make memories together.
Not only is the Davis area a paradise for hiking and outdoor activities in the summer, but it also transforms into a winter wonderland with two ski resorts nearby — Timberline and Canaan Valley Resort. From challenging slopes to beginner-friendly runs, there’s something for every level of skier or snowboarder. We barely scratched the surface of the endless hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and outdoor adventures the area offers, making Davis a destination you can return to season after season.
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