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In 1994, Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge became the 500th refuge in the National Wildlife Refuge System. The refuge's goal is to preserve 24,000 acres of fragile wetlands and unique habitats. More than 15,000 acres have been purchased.
Canaan Valley has an average elevation of 3,200 feet and is 14 miles long and three miles wide. It is the highest valley of its size east of the Rocky Mountains. High altitude and a cool, moist climate have created a unique wetland and northern forest treasure. Several species in the valley are at or near the southernmost edge of their ranges.
Drained by the Blackwater River and its tributaries, the valley contains the largest freshwater wetland area in West Virginia and the central and southern Appalachians.
The valley is nationally recognized as a breeding and fall migration staging area for American woodcock. The refuge also provides habitat for many other migratory bird species, the threatened Cheat Mountain salamander and the endangered West Virginia flying squirrel.
A visitor center is open a few days each week.
Public parking areas are throughout the refuge. Hiking trails are available for wildlife viewing. From the trail, visitors can observe wildlife and view the unique habitats, including bogs, beaver ponds, springs, northern hardwood forest, grassland and balsam fir woodland.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also permitted on designated trails.
Refuge staff lead regularly scheduled nature hikes in the summer. Special programs are offered on request.
Access for canoes and kayaks are outside of the refuge, however paddlers can float through the refuge on the Blackwater River in spring, when water levels permit.
Outdoor Activities |
