Tour with Friends of Blackwater
Birding along the Rail Trail Tour
A naturalist-led birding walk along the Thomas rail trail!
Meet me at the parking lot by Douglas Falls
Time: 9:00 am
This is a beginner-friendly event, and binoculars will be provided!
Birding in the City Park!
A naturalist-led walk through Thomas City Park to look for birds and other critters.
Meet at the Thomas City Park parking lot.
Time: 9:00 am
This is a beginner-friendly event, and binoculars will be provided!
Attracting Moths!
The evening will be spent identifying moths as they arrive, photographing them, and learning about their amazing biology. The event will provide a unique opportunity to explore the world of nocturnal insects, deepening our appreciation for these often-overlooked creatures!
Meet: At the Buxton-Landstreet Building
Time: 8:30PM
With the help of some bedsheets and UV lights, we should attract loads of moths!
We hope to see you there!
Canaan Loop Rd. Birding Tour!
A naturalist-led birding walk along Canaan Loop Rd!
Meet: At Big Rock and Forest Service Gate off of Route 32
Time: 8:30AM
This is a beginner friendly event and binoculars will be provided!
Frogs & Salamanders Eco-Tour!
Join Friends of Blackwater for an exciting hands-on eco-tour exploring the hidden world of amphibians in the highlands! Discover salamanders and frogs' vital role in our mountain ecosystems as we explore wetlands and forest floors.
Meet: Blackwater Falls State Park at the Davis Gate Entrance
Time: 9:00 AM
Great for nature lovers, families, and curious minds of all ages — get ready to splash, learn, and maybe even spot a few slimy friends up close!
National Trail Day Tour!
Lace up your hiking boots and join us for a special guided trail tour through the stunning landscapes of Blackwater Canyon!
In honor of National Trails Day, we’ll explore scenic paths, share the history of the rail trail, and highlight the importance of protecting our public lands.
Meet: Buxton-Landstreet Building
Time: 11:00 AM
It’s the perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors and connect with fellow trail lovers. All ages welcome—let’s hit the trail together!
Historic Tour on the Rail Trail!
Uncover the Secrets of Blackwater Canyon!
Looking for your next wild and wonderful adventure? Join Friends of Blackwater on Saturday, May 10th, at 1:00 PM for an unforgettable Historic Rail Trail Tour with local storyteller and expert Loki Kern!
We’ll gather at the Buxton & Landstreet Building (571 Douglas Rd, Thomas, WV), then set off on a scenic hike into the heart of West Virginia’s railroading and coal mining past. This trail winds through towering trees, dramatic cliffs, and stories that echo through time.
Perfect for history lovers, weekend explorers, and curious minds of all ages!
No registration needed – just bring good walking shoes, water, and a love for local lore.
Bonus: You'll want your camera—these views are legendary!
Tag a friend and make a plan to join us!
Tree Eco-Tour on the Rail Trail!
Looking for a fun and educational way to spend your weekend? Join us for an Eco-Tour on the Rail Trail this Saturday, April 19th, at 11:00 AM, starting at the Buxton-Landstreet Building!
Led by local legend and WV Master Naturalist Frank Slider, this free guided walk is about uncovering the secrets of the trees, wildflowers, and natural beauty that make our Highlands special.
Learn cool facts about native species
Explore scenic trails with fellow nature lovers
Perfect photo ops in a stunning spring setting
Great for all ages and experience levels!
Whether you're curious about the forest or just want an excuse to spend time outside, this eco-tour is for YOU. Bring a friend, bring your dog, bring your sense of wonder!
Saturday, April 19th
11:00 AM
Meet at the Buxton-Landstreet Building
Let’s get out, learn something new, and enjoy the magic of our local trails together!
Historic Tour on the Rail Trail!
Friends of Blackwater will host a historic tour on the Rail Trail, led by our very own Loki Kern!
Mark your calendars for April 12th at 1:00pm.
Meeting Location: Buxton & Landstreet Building in Thomas, 571 Douglas RD.
Bring your boots and your imagination as we walk through history!
Email loki@friendsofblackwater.org for more information!
Historic Tour on the Rail Trail!
Friends of Blackwater will be hosting a historic tour on the Rail Trail, led by Loki Kern!
Mark your calendars for March 29th at 1:00 PM
We will meet at the Buxton & Landstreet Building in Thomas, 571 Douglas RD. Bring your boots and your imagination as we walk through history!
First Winter Eco-Tour!
🌨️ Explore Nature This Winter! ❄️🐾
Join us THIS SATURDAY, December 7th, from 1-2pm, for a FREE Eco-Tour on the beautiful Canyon Rail Trail! 🥾❄️ We’ll search for animal tracks in the snow and uncover the secrets of winter wildlife together. 🦌🦊
📍 Where: Meet us at The Purple Fiddle in Thomas at 1:00 PM.
🎉 Look for Bella holding an Eco-Tour sign—she’ll guide us to the trail for an exciting winter adventure!
📅 Time: 1:00–2:00 PM
👶 Kids are welcome—make it a family outing!
🔗 RSVP today to save your spot:
📧 bella@saveblackwater.org
📞 304-345-7663
Bring your warm clothes, your curiosity, and your love for the great outdoors. Let’s make tracks together! 🐾🌲✨
📷 Snap a pic of the flyer below for all the details!
Tag your friends and spread the word—let’s celebrate nature this weekend! 🌿❄️
#FreeEcoTour #WinterWildlife #FriendsOfBlackwater #ExploreThomas
FREE ECO-TOUR!
Join Friends of Blackwater on Saturday, November 23, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, for a free, fun Eco Tour along the Canyon Rail Trail! We will meet in the upper parking lot of the Buxton and Landstreet building (571 Douglas Rd, Thomas, WV 26292) at 11:00 AM. From there, we will head down to the trail and embark on an hour-long expedition (about a mile of easy walking).
On the walk, expert naturalist Frank Slider will discuss the plants and ecosystems of the Rail Trail! We will also see Douglas Falls. This tour is free, suitable for all ages, and requires no pre-registration. We hope to see you there! For more information, email bella@saveblackwater.org or call Friends of Blackwater at 304-345-7663.
Old-Growth Hike!
Join Friends of Blackwater on Saturday for a free, fun old-growth tour!
When: November 16, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
This hike is roughly a mile round trip along a steep slope. We will take breaks as needed, and walking sticks are encouraged.
On the walk, participants will learn about the past and present logging impacts and facts about old-growth trees and their importance. During our hike, we will see a tree that is over 260 years old!
Please email bella@saveblackwater.org to RSVP and receive directions to the trailhead. To give you an idea of the location, the trailhead is near the Horseshoe Recreation and Campground Area.
For any questions, reach out to the same email or call Bella at 304-816-6930.
Ornament Decorating Event!
Activists, it’s time to grab your holiday sweater and call on the Forest Service to protect
our most valuable tool in the fight against climate change - mature and old-growth
forests!
When: On Sunday, November 10, Friends of Blackwater is hosting a free ornament-making party from 2:00 to 4:00 PM.
Where: Join us in our new office at 172 East Ave. Thomas, WV 26292 for this festive event where we'll create Christmas ornaments that advocate for the protection of our oldest forests Nationwide!
No artistic skills are required! We'll provide all the necessary materials for decorating. All
you need to bring is yourself, your best (or worst) holiday sweater, and your passion for
protecting West Virginia’s oldest forests.
After the event, we’ll mail these ornaments to Washington DC on your behalf and ensure they are personally delivered to decision-makers in the White House.
This holiday season, let's celebrate the trees by sending a powerful message to Washington DC that it's time for a new national rule to safeguard these vital ecosystems.
Email bella@saveblackwater.org to RSVP today!
Historical Eco-Tour!
Join Friends of Blackwater for a “Historical Eco Tour” along the Canyon Rail Trail!
When: This Saturday! November 9, from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Where: We will meet in the upper parking lot of the Buxton and Landstreet building (571 Douglas Rd, Thomas, WV 26292) at 10:30 AM.
From there, we will head down to the Rail Trail and embark on an hour-and-a-half-long expedition.
Participants will learn about our local history, including information on industrial practices and civil rights cases.
On the walk, we will see two waterfalls and several historic structures.
This tour is free, suitable for all ages, and requires no registration.
We hope to see you there! Email bella@saveblackwater.org or call 304-816-6930 for more information.
FREE Old-Growth Hike!
Join Friends of Blackwater on Friday, November 1, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM for a free, fun old-growth tour! This hike is roughly a mile round trip along a steep slope. We will take breaks as needed, and walking sticks are encouraged. On the walk, participants will learn about the logging impacts of the past and present, as well as facts about old-growth trees and their importance. During our hike, we will see several old-growth trees including one that is over 260 years old! We hope to see you there!
Please email bella@saveblackwater.org to RSVP and receive directions to the trailhead. To give you an idea of the location, the trailhead is near the Horseshoe Recreation and Campground Area. For any questions, reach out to the same email or call Bella at 304-816-6930.
FREE ECO-TOUR WITH SPECIAL GUEST!
Join Friends of Blackwater on Saturday, October 26, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, for a free, fun Eco Tour along the Canyon Rail Trail! We will meet in the upper parking lot of the Buxton and Landstreet building (571 Douglas Rd, Thomas, WV 26292) at 11:00 AM. From there, we will head down to the trail and embark on an hour-long expedition (about two miles of easy walking).
On the walk, expert naturalist Frank Slider will discuss the plants and ecosystems of the Rail Trail! We will also see Albert Falls and Douglas Falls, as well as several historic structures. This tour is free, suitable for all ages, and requires no pre-registration. We hope to see you there! For more information, email bella@saveblackwater.org or call Bella at 304-816-6930.
Old-Growth Eco-Tour!
Join Friends of Blackwater on Saturday, October 19, from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM, for a free, fun “Old Growth Eco-Tour” along the Canyon Rail Trail!
We will meet in the upper parking lot of the Buxton and Landstreet building (571 Douglas Rd, Thomas, WV 26292) at 10:30. From there we will head down to the Trail and embark on an hour-and-a-half-long expedition (about a mile of easy walking).
On the walk, we will see a 152-year-old Norway spruce as well as Albert Falls and Douglas Falls. Participants will learn about historical logging and cool facts about old-growth trees!
This tour is free, suitable for all ages, and requires no pre-registration. We hope to see you there!
Email bella@saveblackwater.org, or call Bella at 304-816-6930 for more information.
Waterfall Eco Tour!
Waterfall Eco Tour!
When: Friday September 27th, 2024
Time: 4:00PM - 5:30PM
Meet at: 571 Douglas Rd. Thomas, WV 26292 - Look for Eco Tour sign!
See Albert Falls and Douglas Falls!
Learn: How old coal mines have impacted the North Fork of the Blackwater and what is being done to treat it!
Contact: Bella@saveblackwater.org - 304.816.6930 or just show up to the event!
Fall Eco-Tour!
Friends of Blackwater is hosting a Fall Eco-Tour! Join us for an hour-long guided tour along the Canyon Rail Trail, where we will explore the science behind changing leaves and how animals overwinter.
Meet us in Thomas at the old Miners and Merchants Bank parking lot, located between The Adventure Guild Game Shop and Happy and More Bakery and Cafe on Front Street. Look for our Eco-Tour signs on the sidewalk!
Contact: Bella@saveblackwater.org - 304.816.6930 If you have any further questions!
FIRST FALL ECO-TOUR OF THE YEAR!
WHEN: SATURDAY, SEPT. 14, 2024
TIME: 11:00-12:00 PM
FUN, FREE, FOR ALL AGES!
Friends of Blackwater is hosting a Fall Eco Tour!
Join us for an hour-long guided tour along the Canyon Rail Trail,
where we’ll explore the science behind changing leaves and how animals overwinter.
MEET US: In Thomas at the old Miners and Merchants Bank parking lot, located between
The Adventure Guild Game Shop and Happy and More Bakery and Cafe on Front Street.
Look for our Eco Tour signs on the sidewalk!
CONTACT: bella@saveblackwater.org
304-816-6930
saveblackwater.org
Revive the Rail Trail Invasive Species Removal!
HEAL AND BEAUTIFY OUR CANYON RAIL TRAIL!
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
When: Saturday, September 7th, 2024 1:00PM-4:00 PM
Location: Meet at the Buxton and Landstreet Parking lot in Thomas, WV.
The Canyon Rail Trail is home to a wide variety of beneficial plant life. Unfortunately, invasive species are becoming prominent along the Trail. These invasive plants can overtake the plants that sustain our wildlife.
Volunteers: Will walk a portion of the Rail Trail where they will snip, dig, pull, and bag invasive plants. Water and snacks will be provided.
For questions or registration: Call Bella at 304-816-6930 or email: bella@saveblackwater.org
Butterfly & Moth Eco Tour!
Friends of Blackwater is hosting a Butterfly & Moth Eco-Tour!
Join us on Saturday, August 31, 2024, from 11:00 AM-12:00 PM.
We will meet in the upper parking lot of the Buxton and Landstreet Building, located at 571 Douglas Rd, Thomas, WV 26292.
From there, we will go on an hour-long guided walk along the Canyon Rail Trail. Participants will learn about the life cycles of moths and butterflies in addition to some fun facts!
Call 304-345-7663 or 304-816-6930 if you need more information.
All ages are welcome. We hope to see you there!
Pollination Eco-Tour
Friends of Blackwater is hosting a Pollination Eco Tour!
Join us: Saturday, August 24, 2024, at 11:00 AM
Location: Buxton and Landstreet Building on Douglas Road — just outside of Thomas on the way to Davis.
We will go on a one-hour guided walk along the Canyon Rail Trail. Participants will learn to identify plants and insects important to pollination, and other pollination facts.
We will meet in the B&L Building parking lot.
Call 304-345-7663 or 304-816-6930 if you need more information.
All ages -- we hope to see you there!
Nature Walk in the Park
Meet in front of Blackwater Falls State Park Lodge
Beat the Heat in the Forest!
Tree ID and Bird Watching: Binoculars will be provided.
Everyone Welcome -- Family Friendly
Expert Birder will lead the tour!
PHOTOGRAPHING MOTHS
Meet outside of the Buxton Landstreet Building
Leader: Nate McPeak
571 Douglas Road, Thomas WV
Bring a Camera!
We will attract Moths with a Blacklight and a Sheet.
Expert Naturalist Nate McPeak will identify moths and describe their Life Cycle.
Everyone Welcome; Family Friendly!
Rail Trail Walk for National Trails Day
Meet at the Buxton and Landstreet Building
Leader: Atlee Wise
Join us as we celebrate National Trails Day! We will be taking a walk down the beloved Blackwater Rail Trail. We will be taking a tour of this area's natural history along with the human history of this area. We will be walking approximately 1.2 miles one direction on a relatively flat gravel road. As always, we will also be on the lookout for any signs of wildlife and interesting flora along the way! A shuttle back to the starting location may be available, more details to come.