The Ultimate West Virginia Waterfalls Road Trip Is Right Here – And You’ll Want To Do It
West Virginia’s waterfalls are beautiful places. And if you’re looking to see several of them, I have a great option for you: road trip! This trip will take you from Blackwater Falls in Davis down south to Sandstone and back around so you can view the natural beauty our state has to offer and some of the best waterfalls in West Virginia. It’s the perfect round up natural wonders in the state, and perhaps the best handful of scenic hikes in West Virginia, as well.
The roundtrip is 11 hours, so find some great tunes, gas up the car and get going! If you’re looking for our map, then you can find it right here. Happy adventuring, friends! Stay safe out there.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Blackwater Falls State Park can be found in the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia. It's a beautiful park that expands across the Canaan Valley, and boasts the stunning Blackwater Canyon. It also boasts one of the best waterfall hikes in West Virginia! There are actually three easy trails to Blackwater Falls, and you can choose from a 0.8 trek to a 2.5 mile wander through the wilderness. Keep in mind, you'll need to walk 214 steps down to access the falls.
Douglas Falls can be found right outside of the city of Thomas, on the North Fork Blackwater River. It's known as one of the "elite" waterfalls in the state of West Virginia, and most folks hit up both the Blackwater Falls above and Douglas Falls in the same trip, since they're close by and located in the same state park. The waterfall is accessible by way of a steep trek into a slippery cove. It's well worth the visit, mainly for the famed orange rocks that sit at the waterfall's base.
Valley Falls is accessible by way of the Rocky and Rhododendron Trail in the heart of Valley Falls State Park. This West Virginia waterfall hike is a 3.9 lightly trafficked loop that takes you to the stunning, water-centric site. The area once operated as a lumber and grist mill community, which adds an infusion of history to the whole experience. Although we'd recommend visiting during the warmer months, the trail to Valley Falls is accessible all year.
Cathedral Falls is known as one of the tallest and most beautiful waterfalls in the heart of West Virginia. It's located in the town of Gauley Bridge, and though it is famed and lauded all around the state, it's also one of the easiest waterfalls to see. The falls are actually visible from a parking area off of Route 60, but if you choose, you can take a short trail from the lot to the falls. Wander the cove and fall in love with the sound of rushing water, intensified by the waterfall's natural amphitheater.
This West Virginia waterfall is easily accessible off of Route 60, as well. There are multiple hiking trails throughout the park with varying lengths, so make sure to choose the trek that works for you and your party. Depending on the time of year, the park can be pretty frigid or lush with vegetation. Either way, frozen or surrounded by greenery, the falls are a beautiful sight.
6. Sandstone Falls - New River Gorge National River
The Sandstone Falls Loop Hiking Trail features waterfall and scenic farmland views as it meanders roughly 1.1 miles through the park. It's a great hike for kids, and even Fido is welcome if he's on a leash.
7. Indian Branch Falls - Pipestem Resort State Park
The West Virginia waterfall hike to Indian Branch Falls is accessible by way of a 1.2 mile hike along the County Line Trail. It begins at the nature center, and if you choose to visit you're bound to catch sight of multiple unnamed waterfalls along the trail, just downstream from Indian Branch Falls itself.
Whitaker Falls is located just along Bergoo Road in Webster County, West Virginia. A quick ten minute hike will take you into a perfectly primitive natural area, and there's a series of small waterfalls in the vicinity perfect for photographs. There are also camping options, hotels and restaurants in the area for your convenience, though there are no facilities at the falls themselves.
What do you think of this road trip to the best waterfalls in West Virginia? Any takers? Let us know in the comments if you decide to take the trip, and make sure to leave your own tips and tricks.
Address: Blackwater Canyon Trail, Thomas, WV 26292, USA
Address: Valley Falls Rd, Fairmont, WV 26554, USA
Address: Gauley Bridge, WV 25085, USA
Address: Kanawha Falls, WV 25115, USA
Address: 486 Babcock Rd, Clifftop, WV 25831, USA
Address: Sandstone Falls, District 3, WV 25918, USA
Address: Pipestem, WV 25979, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Waterfalls In West Virginia
January 04, 2020
Meghan Kraft
What are the best waterfall hikes in West Virginia?
The best waterfall hikes can be found all over the state of West Virginia, from the truly epic trek to Cathedral Falls to the heart of the Falls of Hills Creek. Douglas Falls is a very popular hiking spot, and Wonder Falls in Bruceton Mills is perhaps one of the most majestic. If you’re looking for a good place to start, Blackwater Falls State Park is located on the northern edge of the state, and boasts four waterfalls for you to pick from. Head to Elakala Falls if you’re looking for a challenge!
What is the largest waterfall in West Virginia?
The highest waterfall in West Virginia can be found in the ever-popular Blackwater Falls State Park, and it’s aptly named Blackwater Falls. The 57-foot plunge makes it the tallest waterfall in the state and the main attraction at Blackwater State Park.
Are there any other scenic hikes in West Virginia?
Our state is known for its lush beauty and expansive views, so it’s not hard to find a handful of scenic hikes in West Virginia. Seneca Rocks Trail and Long Point Trail both boast breathtaking views, as well as the famed Lindy Point Trail and hike to Harpers Ferry. If you time your hike just right, you may be able to catch West Virginia at golden hour. Oh, what a treat it is to see the state lit up in gold come the evening time!
