High and low, natural beauty abounds throughout the valley
Tucked away in Northwestern West Virginia, Canaan Valley offers a wet and wild setting, dotted primarily by lush wetlands, the Blackwater River, and cascading waterfalls. Perched high in the Allegheny Mountains, your Canaan Valley vacation rental sits nestled in a gulley between the Canaan and Cabin Mountains. Inhale all that fresh mountain air as you embark on a host of outdoor adventures in pristine state parks that double as playgrounds for visitors. Climb to new heights, swim in fresh waters, and come face-to-face with nature in the region's rural landscape.
Parks and recreation: enjoy a workout in the great outdoors
Outfitted with ski trails, a terrain park, and snow tubing area, Canaan Valley State Park is one of the area's most popular attractions. Other winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating. You'll know summer has arrived once the snow melts, the sun is shining, and the park opens its swimming pool, rock climbing walls, and golf course. Feel the gentle splash of a 62-foot cascading waterfall at Blackwater Falls State Park or hike through wetlands and forests at Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge. The space also features more than 20 miles of trails for bikes and horses.
Into the wild _ seeking adventure in the great wide open
If you can't get enough of the great outdoors, booking a Canaan Valley vacation rental is the right move for you. The region is a hub for recreational activities, including camping, hiking, fishing, and even game bird hunting. Each fall the valley hosts the Leaf Peeper's Festival, which highlights the area's colorful foliage, as well as local arts and craft vendors, live musical acts, a car show, an Oktoberfest celebration and a 5K competition. Go in search of feathered friends alongside other birdwatchers at the summertime Canaan Valley Birding Festival.
Walking (and skiing) in a winter wonderland
Better pack an extra pair of thermals if you booked a Canaan Valley vacation rental for the winter. Perched 3,200 feet above sea level, the region experiences more than its fair share of snow, or approximately 134 inches each year. Expect some big snow totals from January through March, coupled with daytime highs that hover only around freezing. Rain is common throughout the year, with totals averaging between 3.5 to 5 inches each month. Leave your snow pants behind and bring some shorts instead during the summer, when afternoon temperatures hover in the (somewhat humid) mid-70s.
Exploring the natural features in Canaan Valley
Whether you're looking for adventure or just want to take in the scenery, Canaan Valley is a great place to get outside. Here are a few of the area's most enchanting sights, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
- Blackwater Falls State Park (7.3 mi / 11.7 km)
- Blackwater Falls (7.5 mi / 12 km)
- Smoke Hole Caverns (12.9 mi / 20.7 km)
- Canaan Valley Resort State Park (1.5 mi / 2.4 km)
- Dolly Sods Wilderness Area (5.7 mi / 9.2 km)
- Seneca Rocks (13 mi / 20.9 km)
Transportation options to and around Canaan Valley
The nearest airport is in Elkins, WV (EKN-Randolph County), located 23.2 mi (37.3 km) from the city center.