West Virginia is a state well known for its unmatched natural beauty and plethora of outdoor activities available to visitors. One place to experience both of these offerings is Monongahela National Forest in the eastern part of the state. Among other things, this roughly 900,000-acre woodland offers tourists a wide range of hiking trails geared toward every skill level. If you’re looking for a more easy-going excursion, we recommend the Douglas Falls Trail in the northern part of the forest approximately three miles south of the town of Thomas.

Hiking the Douglas Falls Trail is an activity that all–young and old alike–can enjoy thanks to the trail’s almost imperceptible 59-foot elevation gain. Along the trail visitors will find lots of shady areas courtesy of the forest’s “second-growth” trees.
Andrew Jacobs/AllTrails
Along the trail you will come across a metal-and-wood footbridge. If you are visiting in the springtime this is a good spot to stop and admire the flora along the path.
Melanie Crocker/AllTrails
Make sure, too, to stop at one of many viewpoints looking farther into Monongahela National Forest. Reaching out into the horizon, the trees seem to go on forever and create a breathtaking view.
David Seals/AllTrails

Related Stories

As West Virginia's Only Self-Guided Commercial Cave Tour, There's No Need To Rush At Lost World Caverns

As West Virginia's Only Self-Guided Commercial Cave Tour, There's No Need To Rush At Lost World Caverns

 West Virginia's Cacapon Mountain Is One Of The Best Hiking Summits for Viewing Multiple States

West Virginia's Cacapon Mountain Is One Of The Best Hiking Summits for Viewing Multiple States

 12 Of The Most Impressive Natural Wonders In West Virginia

12 Of The Most Impressive Natural Wonders In West Virginia
You may spot in several locations domed structures right off the pathway. These are coke ovens and were used back in the day to turn coal into coke, a source of fuel. These stone structures can be found in a few other places around the state including in the New River Gorge National Park.
Steve Beckelhimer/Google Local
Your reward for completing this short “walk in the woods” is beautiful views of the eponymous Douglas Falls which cascade down a short rocky cliff before returning the Blackwater River, of which Douglas Falls is a part, to its normal flow.
Heather Chase/AllTrails
Below is a view of Douglas Falls from above and farther upstream. In the foreground can be seen several American rhododendrons, a flower that can be found throughout Monongahela National Forest.
Arianna S./Google Local

Walking the Douglas Falls Trail is an excellent way to see the Mountain State’s natural history (the falls and forest) and local history (the coke ovens that dot the landscape) without too much effort. Plus, when you are done with this trail there are several others in the area (albeit of varying levels of difficulty) including ones that lead you to Albert Falls and Kennedy Falls. Have you had the opportunity to hike this mountain trail? If so, let us know your thoughts in the comments.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore West Virginia

Featured Addresses
Douglas Falls, Blackwater Canyon Trail, Thomas, WV 26292, USA