Kelly M.
Yelp
Awesome place - a MUST SEE!
We ventured out here on a recommendation from a co-worker as it's only about an hour from Deep Creek, where we are staying for the week.
This is a very large and well-maintained Park with lots of overlooks and small trails for hiking or just taking a gentle stroll in nature.
We obviously came for the famous Blackwater Falls, and we were amazed at its beauty. The trek down to the falls is not a hike, but rather a short walk down about 200 wooden steps. Yes, there are overlooks along the way with views of the Falls, but if your body can handle it, it's worth going all the way to the bottom of the steps to the overlook just next to the Falls. You can feel the mist on your face and it's wonderful for taking up-close pictures without much in the way. The walk back up is quite exhausting and hard on your knees as you go back up the wooden staircase/boardwalk. However, it is very safe even when slick from the mist; it is taken care of which I appreciate.
If you're not up for a lot of walking, make a left towards the 'petting zoo' at the 4-way stop before the Falls. There's a handicap overlook with a small parking lot of about 15-20 spaces. A short walk down a paved path takes you right to a wooden ramp overlooking the Falls. It is quite a distance away but the Falls are honestly just as beautiful. I think it's awesome that they have this alternative location for those with limitations or strollers with kiddos. I was happy we went because it was still a nice backdrop for pictures.
If you have time, there's a gift shop located right in the center of the parking lot. They have your typical magnets, keychains, T-shirt's, and souvenir pens, as well as wooden walking sticks and umbrellas. They also have a lot of collectible rocks/minerals and some cute home decor, mostly bear & cabin related. For the campers, they supply some fire supplies and other odds and ends.
Attached to the gift shop is a snack bar with quite a large menu to choose from- pizza, hotdogs, sandwiches, nachos, chips, soda, bottled water, among others. Everything appeared to be reasonably priced, though I did not purchase anything myself so I can't say if it was good or just convenient.
I would DEFINITELY recommend visiting this area for getting back in touch with nature and appreciating the beauty of the outdoors!