Posted in West Virginia
August 19, 2020
From Rugged Backcountry To Accessible Trails, West Virginia Has A Waterfall Adventure For Everyone
There’s definitely something magical about the sights and sounds of a rushing waterfall. If it’s been a while since you’ve gotten out to stretch your legs and you need a break from the frenetic pace of everyday life, this list is for you!
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
Blackwater Falls, located in Blackwater Falls State Park, is one of the most popular waterfall hikes in the state—and for good reason. The easiest access point, a .4-mile in-and-out trail comprised of boardwalk and stairs, features multiple views of the 57-foot golden cascade. For a longer option, try the 2.5-mile trail that wanders through the surrounding forest. Visit both at 1584 Blackwater Lodge Rd, Davis, WV 26260.
In the same park as Blackwater Falls, the stunning Elakala Falls is another must-see! Comprised of four waterfalls along the Shay’s Run, the first (pictured above) is easily reached along a well-marked trail. Note that each successive cascade becomes more difficult to access; the final falls at the bottom of the gorge is not along a marked trail and should only be attempted by experienced hikers. Find this gorgeous river on Blackwater Lodge Road, Davis, WV 26260.
Another series of falls to add to your bucket list are the Falls of Hills Creek, just a few miles down from the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center in the Monongahela National Forest. The first falls is viewable from a 1/3-mile handicapped-accessible boardwalk. The trail then turns to dirt and continues for another half-mile to the middle falls (pictured above) and the final falls. These falls are located at 932 North Fork Cherry Highway, Richwood, WV 26261.
Adventurers up for a more strenuous hike should definitely seek out the Kaymoor Mine Trail, a steep 1.7-mile trek featuring several historical coal mining ruins and multiple cascades, including the Kaymoor Trail Falls. Access this area from Kaymoor Rd, Fayetteville, WV 25840.
Another hike that combines history and waterfalls is the moderate 3.9-mile loop around Valley Falls in Valley Falls State Park, a day use park that was once the site of a lumber and gristmill camp. There are four falls along the Rocky and Rhododendron trails that form the Valley Falls loop. Valley Falls State Park is located at 720 Valley Falls Rd, Fairmont, WV 26544.
Rail trails in and around Hawk’s Nest State Park provide access to multiple falls in the area, including the picturesque Mill Creek Falls. For an extra memorable experience, ride the tram down from Hawks Nest State Park to the river and hike the 1 mile trail over an old trestle bridge to the falls. Also note the foundations of an old water tower and the remains of Mill Creek Mine along the way. Board the aerial tramway at 49 Hawk’s Nest Park Rd, Ansted, WV 25812.
What other West Virginia waterfall hikes are on your bucket list? Which ones have you already visited?
If waterfalls aren’t your thing, but you still need to get out of the house for an adventure, try heading to one of the fun small towns on this list!
Address: Blackwater Falls, Davis, WV 26260, USA
Address: 1584 Blackwater Lodge Rd, Davis, WV 26260, USA
Address: Falls of Hills Creek, Little Levels, WV 24946, USA
Address: 720 Valley Falls Rd, Fairmont, WV 26554, USA
Address: Kaymoor Miners Trail, Fayetteville, WV 25840, USA
Address: 49 Hawks Nest Rd, Ansted, WV 25812, USA
