Hidden high in the Appalachian Mountains, Davis has quietly emerged as West Virginia’s most underrated town, drawing attention for its remarkable natural beauty, authentic mountain culture, and small-town hospitality. Perched at an elevation of 3,520 feet, Davis is the highest incorporated town in the state and offers a four-season playground for nature lovers, artists, and anyone seeking an off-the-beaten-path getaway.
A Base Camp for Outdoor Adventure
Davis is surrounded by some of West Virginia’s most spectacular scenery. Blackwater Falls State Park, famous for its striking 57-foot waterfall and vast canyon views, lies just outside town. The park boasts miles of hiking trails, picnic spots, and, in winter, the East Coast’s longest sled run—attracting adventurers year-round.
Nearby, Bear Rocks Preserve showcases surreal subalpine landscapes, bogs, and sandstone cliffs, while the legendary Dolly Sods Wilderness features over 47 miles of hiking and biking trails, secret swimming holes, and berry-filled bogs. Davis is a magnet for hikers, mountain bikers, and families alike, with outfitters like Blackwater Bikes offering rentals and shuttles for trail explorations.
Quirky Downtown and Emerging Arts Scene
Though small in size, Davis punches above its weight with a charming, walkable downtown. The main street is lined with colorful storefronts that house coffee shops, galleries, and eateries. Local favorites like TipTop serve up fresh roasted coffee, while boutique stores offer everything from handmade jewelry to vintage goods. The town’s creative energy is on display at local galleries and antique shops, making this a haven for artists and craftsmen.
Signature Experiences
- Waterfall Chasing: Explore Blackwater Falls and nearby Elakala Falls, both stunning throughout the seasons.
- Mountain Biking: Davis is recognized for some of the best single-track riding on the East Coast, with scenic routes leading into lush forests and wildflower meadows.
- Winter Sports: Timberline Mountain and Canaan Valley Resort offer skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing minutes from town.
- Breweries & Nightlife: Relax after a day outdoors with local brews at Stumptown Ales or Mountain State Brewing Co.—where live music and vibrant crowds gather nightly.
Affordability and Local Hospitality
Despite its appeal, Davis remains an affordable travel destination. The median home value hovers around $140,000, making it accessible to both residents and weekenders. Accommodations range from historic inns and cozy cabins to family-friendly lodges. Davis is famed for its welcoming atmosphere—a place where visitors are treated like locals and the pace of life is delightfully unhurried.
Why Davis Is West Virginia’s Hidden Gem
Beyond its scenery, Davis embodies what makes West Virginia so special: genuine small-town charm, a thriving arts community, and endless opportunities for exploration. As word spreads about the town’s appeal, Davis is finally getting its due as the most underrated spot in the Mountain State, a place every traveler should experience at least once.
Sources
[1] https://www.islands.com/1741854/west-virginia-mountains-hides-highest-underrated-almost-heaven-town-charm-davis/
[2] https://www.islands.com/1864661/thomas-west-virginia-waterfall-underrated-mountain-city-artsy-outdoor-popular-cute-shops/
[3] https://wvmetronews.com/2024/01/01/study-finds-west-virginia-has-many-hidden-gems-in-overall-mountain-towns-across-u-s/
[4] https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/6-most-overlooked-towns-in-west-virginia.html
[5] https://ph.pinterest.com/pin/8-most-underrated-towns-in-west-virginia-to-take-a-trip-to-in-2024–537898749262501045/
