The weather is just beginning to cool, the forests are lush and green, and it’s definitely time to lace up your hiking boots and hit a trail! And this might be just the trail you’ve been waiting all summer to tackle.

For the energetic hiker or outdoor lover, High Falls is a perfect challenge.
Michael Dyer/Alltrails
Perched in the wilderness of Monongahela National Forest, High Falls is a beautiful and peaceful haven...but as one of the highest-altitude waterfalls in the state, you'll have to hike a few hard miles to earn your reward. 
Larry Carpenter/Alltrails
There are actually multiple ways to get to High Falls on foot. The longer route begins near the town of Glady and follows the West Fork Rail Trail south for a few miles before heading into the mountains to reach the falls. This beautiful hike is over 12 miles round trip and has excellent camping at multiple sites along the trail.
Donnie Nunley/Flickr
Alternatively, you can reach the High Falls Trail from Forest Road 44 to the east, and hike approximately 7 miles. Both routes will give you a workout on the beautiful, remote trail over Shavers Mountain. Once you've reached Shavers Fork, be aware that you will be hiking along live railroad tracks for a while as you approach the falls.
jeff covey/Flickr

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Once at your destination, spend some time enjoying your accomplishment!
John Rollins/Alltrails
Relax and take in the scenic, wide waterfall framed by the mountains. In hot weather, cool off in the natural pool at the base of the falls. There is also good fishing in the creek.
Brody Johnson/Alltrails
High Falls is also accessible by the New Tygart Flyer excursion train which leaves from Elkins once a day. Just re-starting after the Covid shutdown, the train will only operate on weekends during most of the month of September.
Durbin and Greenbrier Valley Railroad
So grab your boots, pack a lunch, sweat off some stress, and spend a glorious day soaking up the wilderness beauty of High Falls!
Ellen Shepherd/Alltrails

To learn more about how to access these gorgeous falls, visit the Elkins-Randolph County Tourism website. If the idea of riding the train to the waterfall caught your interest, learn more about the Durbin and Greenbrier Valley Railroad here.

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High Falls Trail, Elkins, WV, USA