Strolling Through Davis & Thomas, WV: Short Hikes, Waterfalls & Local Culture
- nancy9487
- Nov 19
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 25
Enjoy Visiting These Charming Walkable Mountain Towns
We just spent an amazing weekend in Davis and Thomas, West Virginia. Located just 3 hours from Washington, DC, these neighboring small towns are nestled in the beautiful Allegheny Mountains.
In addition to offering a variety of hiking trails for all abilities, each adorable downtown area has managed to pack in delicious dining, breweries, music venues, shops and art galleries.
My sister introduced me to Davis and Thomas, WV last year and I couldn't wait to come back for further exploration of this West Virginia hidden gem!
Easy Hikes & Scenic Walks Near Davis & Thomas WV
Normally I go for a moderate hike - something to really get the blood pumping, but my sister had a bum ankle, so we couldn't do our usual level of hiking. Instead, we found several rewarding shorter walks and hikes throughout Tucker County.
Here are the best short hikes you should not miss while visiting the area:
Blackwater Falls Boardwalk (Blackwater Falls State Park)
Distance: <0.5 miles
Effort: Easy
Highlights: Beautiful View of Blackwater Falls, Great for All Ages
Blackwater Falls, WV This should be your first stop! This short hike is located in Blackwater Falls State Park, WV and beautiful to see any time of year. We visited in mid-November and it was still impressive. After entering Blackwater Falls State Park, proceed to the Trading Post parking lot. The Boardwalk Trail starts from this parking area. Just be aware, there are lots of steps and they can become icy in the wintertime.
Lindy Point Overlook (Blackwater Falls State Park)
Distance: 0.8 miles round-trip
Effort: Easy
Highlights: Rock Formations, Dramatic Canyon Views, Stunning at Sunset
Lindy Point Overlook at Sunset Also located within Blackwater Falls State Park, Lindy Point Overlook provides a spectacular view of Blackwater Canyon and is noted as one of the best views in West Virginia. The trailhead is situated at the end of Canaan Loop Road as you drive through the park. A gravel parking area is available, and the path to Lindy Point is well marked.
Elakala Falls Trail (Blackwater Falls State Park)
Distance: 0.6 miles round-trip Effort: Easy but Rocky Highlights: Captivating Waterfall, Moss-Covered Rocks, Wooden Bridge
Elakala Falls WV Elakala Falls Trail is a lovely short hike through the woods. The hike feels magical with the moss-covered rocks, and the wooden bridge offers a great view of the rusty pool below the falls. It's a brief retreat into nature and definitely worth the quick detour.
The trailhead for Elakala Falls can be found near the Blackwater Lodge. Once parked, the trailhead will be located to the left of the lodge.
Canaan Valley Freeland Boardwalk Trail (Canaan Valley National Refuge)
Distance: 0.4 mile loop Effort: Easy
Highlights: Nice Views of Canaan Valley, Beaver Pond & Bubbling Spring
Canaan Valley Freeland Boardwalk Trail WV This trail is a nice short walk through the wet field and shrubland. Since we visited in mid-November, the scenery wasn't as colorful as it is in the fall, spring or summer. However, it was interesting to see the beaver pond and small pool of water bubbling up from below.
Exploring the Culture of Downtown Davis & Thomas WV on Foot
Make sure to visit these two charming small towns! You will be pleasantly surprised by their tasty restaurants, numerous art galleries, quaint gift shops and multiple breweries. Read below for a few some of my favorite spots from each town.
Wander Downtown Davis
Davis' main street may be small, but it offers lots of entertainment and is full of character.
Don't Miss:
The Billy - A retro motel beautifully renovated to include a restaurant, Ish Kitchen, and a cozy wood bar offering craft cocktails. We dined at the Ish Kitchen and had a wonderful time. The international menu features amazing dishes from around the world, and the service was both friendly and attentive.
Sirianni's Cafe - This local's classic is a great lunch spot! They are known for their pizza and garlic chips, both of which were outstanding. Remember, this is a cash-only place, so come prepared with cash and a good appetite.
Independent Boutiques - Check out the shops, they offer everything from outdoor gear to local crafts.
Glass-Blowing Demonstrations - Scott was happy to show us the ins and outs of glass-blowing. He explained the process and created an elegant ornament as we observed. It was a fun experience and worth a stop.
Glass by Scott in Davis WV
Explore the Artsy Vibe of Thomas
Thomas feels like a tiny creative district tucked in a mountain town. Most of the shops and galleries sit along East Avenue, a historic row of brick storefronts.
Highlights Include:
The Purple Fiddle - A unique and strangely well-known music venue in Thomas, WV. Big acts have graced The Purple Fiddle's stage, including The Avett Brothers, Sierra Ferrell, S. G. Goodman, Keller Williams and Afroman. Check out their calendar and plan a night out - so much fun!
Tie One On Taphouse & Fly Shop - One of Thomas' many hidden gems, this local cafe/bar/fly shop serves up amazing food and local IPAs with a side of fly fishing.
Thomas Art Shops & Galleries - Glasswork, paintings, pottery, textiles - all made by local artists. Make sure you visit Buxton & Landstreet Gallery & Studios. Housed in a stunning historical building which was a company store in 1900, this building now features Appalachian art and offers art classes. This gallery is a few blocks away from the historic district, so make sure to venture over.
Buxton & Landstreet Gallery & Studios
Davis & Thomas Highlights Map
If you love a weekend full of nature walks, small-town culture, local food, and beautiful mountain scenery, Davis and Thomas should be your next get-away! I hope you enjoy visiting this awesome hidden gem in West Virginia as much as I do.
Another mountain destination that should be on your "must-visit list" is Hendersonville, NC. Check out my post on this lovely walkable town situated in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.
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