You’ll Fall In Love With The Tiny Waterfalls Hiding Along This Breathtaking West Virginia Trail

Big Branch Trail in the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve is a hidden gem lined with waterfalls that offers a peaceful and scenic hiking experience. The trail meanders through lush, historic forests and along the banks of Big Branch, passing by several beautiful cascades (and offering brief glimpses of Brooks Falls) along the way.

The Big Branch Trail is a moderately strenuous, two-mile loop trail in the New River Gorge National Park. The trailhead begins just across the road from the Brooke Falls Overlook along River Road outside of Hinton.

It's beautiful in every season, but if you go in early spring, you'll find an abundance of early blooming wildflowers!

As you hike along the trail at any time of year, you'll be treated to the soothing sound of rushing water and the sight of crystal-clear pools beneath the cascades.

In addition to the cascades, the trail also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty of the natural landscape.

The best way to approach this loop is by taking a left at the trailhead, so that you are tackling the trail counter clockwise (the trail is easier to follow and the views of the stream and waterfalls are better). There are some steep sections to the trail, and some wet ones, so come prepared with comfortable, waterproof hiking boots, especially in wet seasons.

Sharp-eyed hikers might also spot the ruins of an old farmstead: the forested hillsides on either side of the creek were once pastures and hayfields, and the level areas were planted in corn, potatoes and other vegetables by early subsistance farmers.

The trail itself was a wagon road that wound past the community grist mill to a one room school at the headwaters of Big Branch Creek.

Overall, Big Branch Trail is a lovely spot for a moderate hike in the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape into nature or a fun adventure with friends and family, this trail has something to offer everyone. So grab your hiking boots and hit the trail to experience the beauty of these small waterfalls in the New River Gorge for yourself.