THOMAS — High in the Allegheny Mountains of Tucker County, the neighboring towns of Thomas and Davis have long held a special place in the hearts of travelers seeking the charm of a small-town, artistic spirit, and outdoor adventure.
Now, thanks to a new development at Blackwater Falls State Park, one of the area’s most beloved winter attractions is getting a major upgrade.
The West Virginia State Parks Foundation recently announced the construction of a new maintenance building at the popular Sled Run at Blackwater Falls, the longest sled run on the East Coast. Built by Milco Metals of Philippi, the structure will provide indoor storage and repair space for the heavy equipment used to groom the sledding trails each winter.
“Construction of this building was long overdue and badly needed,” park Superintendent Ben Leedom said.
The quarter-mile sled run serves an average of 12,000 visitors each winter, drawing families and adventurers from across the region. Funding for the building came entirely from donations managed by the West Virginia State Parks Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing park infrastructure and visitor experience.
“All of the funding for this project was provided by donation,” foundation board member Kim McCluskey said. “We use all of it for projects on our state park areas, and for capacity building.”
Beyond the park, the towns of Thomas and Davis have their own stories to tell. Once coal towns, both have flourished into creative destinations filled with art galleries, music venues, cafes and shops. Visitors may catch live bluegrass echoing through a local bar or browse local art just steps away from breathtaking views.
Thomas is also home to the original Mountain State Brewing Co., one of West Virginia craft breweries. Known for its wood-fired flatbreads and handcrafted ales, the brewery has become a staple for visitors and locals.
Yet it is the surrounding wilderness that continues to be the area’s most magnetic draw. Just minutes from downtown Davis, Blackwater Falls State Park offers miles of hiking trails, filled with views of canyons and waterfalls.
Adventurers can head east to Dolly Sods Wilderness, a high-altitude plateau, prized for its backcountry backpacking and breathtaking stargazing. To the south, Canaan Valley Resort State Park is a haven for winter recreation.
Camping options thrive throughout the region, from drive-in campsites with fire rings to remote backcountry spots. Whether you are setting up near a trailhead or starting on a multi-day backpacking journey, there is no shortage of ways to be in the wilderness.
In Thomas and Davis, the pace is slower, but the air is crisper, filled with Appalachian spirit. These two towns are what it means to have art and adventure meet.
