Blackwater Falls A Staggering Ice Castle In West Virginia

West Virginia is a little short on ice castles, have you noticed? Other states have elaborate ice castle attractions and festivals and traveling events, but we here in the Mountain State don’t have many options when it comes to such things… at least, if we’re talking about man-made ice castles, that is. But if we’re talking about elaborate ice castles exquisitely crafted in nature… well, that’s another story entirely.

Have you ever visited Blackwater Falls State Park? Of course you have. It’s among the state’s most popular state parks, and Blackwater Falls has often been billed West Virginia’s most beautiful waterfall. But have you ever seen it in winter?

West Virginia Department of Tourism

That’s a little less common, but take it from us, Blackwater Falls in winter is a sight not to miss: this always beautiful waterfall transforms into a staggering ice castle you need to see for yourself to believe. That said, you can still get at least a little bit of an idea of the winter splendor of Blackwater Falls from photos like these.

West Virginia State Parks

The scene truly is reminiscent of a palace, isn’t it? A terraced staircase carpeted in royal white. Towering turrets made of massive icicles. Delicate, lacy fountains of frigid, golden-hued spray.

Jacob Fowler / iStock Collection via Getty Images Plus

Who needs man-made ice castles when you can enjoy such magnificent natural ice castle creations?

Daniel Friend / iStock Collection via Getty Images Plus

And the rest of the scenery around Blackwater Falls isn’t so bad looking in winter, either.

Tucker Valley CVB

Elakala Falls, Blackwater Canyon, Blackwater Falls Sled Run… these are all just more reasons to schedule your next visit to Blackwater Falls State Park for this winter!

Tucker County CVB

To plan a visit to see West Virginia’s magnificent 57-foot natural ice castle for yourself, head to the Blackwater Falls State Park website, where you can also learn more about the aforementioned Blackwater Falls Sled Run and other park attractions. You can even opt to enjoy this magical winter wonderland for several days with a stay in the cozy, newly updated Blackwater Falls Lodge.