All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

Blackwater Falls State Park begins online ticket sales for popular sled run

SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The eagerly awaited sled run at Blackwater Falls State Park is set to kick off its winter season, and enthusiasts can now secure advance tickets conveniently through the official website wvstateparks.com. In past years, tickets have gone quickly, so advanced reservations are strongly recommended. 

“The sled run remains a cherished attraction among West Virginia’s state parks, and we’re thrilled to extend a warm welcome to all for yet another season of exhilarating winter activities and family bonding,” said Brad Reed, Chief of West Virginia State Parks. “Given the enormous popularity of our sled run, which for many has become an annual family tradition, and the rapid sell-out of tickets in the past, we strongly encourage everyone to reserve their tickets online well ahead of time this year. This way, they can plan their visits and fully savor the winter wonders Blackwater Falls offers.

Operating from December 23 to March 5, 2024, Wednesdays through Sundays (weather permitting), the sled run will also observe extended hours during the holiday week between Christmas and New Year’s, as well as on Martin Luther King Jr. and Presidents’ Day. Any updates to the season schedule will be promptly shared on West Virginia State Parks’ official website and social media channels.

For the 2023 season, session tickets are priced at $28 for weekdays and $33 for weekends and holidays. Each session spans two hours and is available at 10 a.m., 1 p.m., and 4 p.m. on weekdays, with an additional 7 p.m. session on Fridays, Saturdays and holiday Sundays.

Guests are requested to arrive at least 20 minutes before their scheduled session for a mandatory safety briefing. Adequate winter attire, including snow-protective outerwear, is strongly recommended. The park will provide sleds and all necessary equipment.

The quarter-mile sled run is equipped with illuminating lights for nighttime sledding and features a convenient magic carpet that easily transports riders and their sleds back to the hilltop. Guests and spectators alike can enjoy the cozy atmosphere of the recently refurbished warming hut and patio equipped with an enticing selection of warm beverages, snacks, and retail items for sale.

For those seeking alternative winter adventures, Blackwater Falls State Park also offers cross-country skis and snowshoes for rent. For detailed information regarding the sled run or to secure your tickets in advance, please visit wvstateparks.com/blackwater-falls-sled-run.

Share this story:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

Stanley E. Mullins

Stanley E. Mullins, 80, of Buckhannon, WV, a former truck driver, died Nov. 4, 2025; he is survived by his wife Lucy, children, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, siblings, and extended family, with services Nov. 7.

This week’s Hank Ellis All-Stars: Alivia Cogar and Conner McKim

This week’s Hank Ellis All-Stars are B-U’s Alivia Cogar, who posted 10 kills and 22 digs in regional action, and Conner McKim, whose goal-line stop sealed a 60-57 win over Preston. #buckhannon
WVWC Volleyball

Volleyball Lady ‘Cats drop first set to Concord then rallies to win a 3-1 contest

West Virginia Wesleyan rallied from a first-set loss to defeat Concord 3–1 (16–25, 25–17, 25–16, 25–22), led by Bhrooke Axe’s 18 kills and strong defense from Alexis Moeschler.

Buckhannon-Upshur honors two National Merit Scholarship semifinalists and other achievers at academic assembly

Buckhannon-Upshur High School held an Academic Achievements Assembly honoring students for SAT, AP and honor roll success, naming National Merit semifinalists Declan Gowers and Lila Wright and recognizing various academic awards and programs.

Football Bucs ranked 16th in latest edition of WVSSAC playoff ratings

Buckhannon-Upshur sits 16th in the Class AAAA WVSSAC ratings through 10 weeks, the last spot to make the playoffs. The Bucs visit Robert C. Byrd to close the regular season.

West Virginia Wesleyan College to host 10th North Central West Virginia Honor Band Nov. 6-8

West Virginia Wesleyan College will host the 10th North Central West Virginia Honor Band Nov. 6–8, bringing over 100 students from 22 schools for rehearsals, activities, and free concerts led by conductors Eliza Taylor and Adam Loudin.
Fred Eberle Technical Center

Fred W. Eberle Technical Center Administrative Council to meet November 12

The Fred W. Eberle Technical Center Administrative Council will hold its regular meeting on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at 2 p.m. at the center, 208 Morton Avenue.

Upshur County Commission Agenda: November 6, 2025

The Upshur County Commission will hold a meeting November 6, 2025, and this article publishes the agenda for that session.

Raising the Jolly Roger With… Reagan Mason

Buckhannon-Upshur senior Reagan Mason, a four-year volleyball and softball standout, plans to attend college and become a pediatric nurse practitioner. She credits family, coaches and teammates for shaping her Buccaneer experience.