Lindy Point Trail

Blackwater Falls State Park, West Virginia

Lindy Point, arguably one of the most scenic overlooks in West Virginia, provides hikers with a sweeping view of Blackwater Canyon—the wooden platform, reached after an easy 0.4-mile trek, juts out from a rocky cliff 3,000 feet above the endless canyon.

The rugged Blackwater Canyon is a heavily wooded, 8-mile long gorge carved out of the Allegheny Mountains by the Blackwater River—views of the river far below are best from the overlook, which faces west, but be sure to explore the entire area, taking in the easterly vista as well.

To access the trailhead, take the Canaan Loop Road until you reach a small parking area at the end of the road—driving past the trailhead requires 4WD, as the road is very rough.

From the trailhead, the rocky path descends gradually through a mixed hardwood forest—spruce, hemlock, maple, oak and a thick rhododendron understory provide beautiful color in the spring and fall.

After hiking just a bit over a third of a mile on relatively flat terrain, you will reach Lindy Point—perched high above the canyon, the overlook allows for breathtaking views of the gorge and the iconic rock formations that dot the landscape. Chimney Rock, a 35-foot-tall spire adjacent to the viewing platform, is a particularly recognizable formation, thanks to its highly photogenic character.