West Virginia is jampacked with mesmerizing waterfalls–over 200, to be exact–that take tranquility to another level. This guide will take you to some of the best sites along West Virginia’s statewide waterfall trail.
LessInside the Valley Falls State Park, a bend in the Tygart River creates a patch of must-see waterfalls. Getting to the site is as simple as hopping on the 0.2-mile Tygart Valley Trail, which will put you right next to the rushing water. There are plenty of areas to sit on the rocks and let the drone of the waterfalls lull you into a relaxed, meditative state.
Elakala Falls can’t be missed if you’re in the northern part of the state. You’ll find it in the Blackwater Falls State Park, and it’s guaranteed to leave an impression. It might not be the biggest waterfall, but the way the water rushes under a wooden bridge, staggers down the multi-layered cliff, and ends in a pool surrounded by rocks, leaves, and trees truly makes it a sight to see.
Interested in getting lost in the lush trees of West Virginia and stumbling upon a sparkling waterfall? Then head over to the Kumbrabow State Forest. Within the forest, Mill Creek Falls is engulfed by a gorgeous scene of towering and fallen trees. In the warmer months, the pool beneath the falls is an excellent spot to take a dip or cast a line.
If you don’t mind embarking on a five-mile hike, put Seneca Creek Falls high on your places-to-visit list. The falls are located in the Monongahela National Forest, where you’ll be far away from highways, cities and cars. The area has several remarkable camping spots, so you can turn the experience into a full-blown nature retreat. Make sure to pack your fishing pole for the chance to reel in incredible royal blue crawfish.
Holly River State Park offers a two-for-one waterfall deal you can’t pass up. The Upper and Lower Falls are both easily accessible and equally stunning. The waterfalls can start flowing heavily during the wetter months, but their beauty holds up even in the dryer seasons. If you feel like having the full nature experience, take a walk up the Potato Knob Trail to access the falls (a less strenuous option is available off Pickens Grade Road).
If you’re traveling in southern West Virginia in spring or winter, you’re right on time to check out Marsh Fork Falls and Black Fork Falls. These two seasonal waterfalls are found along the Falls Trail Loop in the Twin Falls Resort State Park. The trail is only about 1.5 miles, and you don’t need to prepare for anything too difficult. Even if you’re in the area during the drier seasons, the state park is great for ATV riding and camping–electric hookups are available.
Campbell Falls is a photographer’s dream location. Water from Camp Creek staggers down a stretch of rock shelves before continuing its journey downstream. You can capture several lovely angles of the waterfall, and this location is arguably more beautiful when water levels are lower. The towns of Bluefield and Princeton are great places to grab a bite to eat before or after seeing the waterfall. Check out the Blue Spoon Cafe for a delicious breakfast or lunch.
West Virginia is home to New River Gorge, a 70,000-acre national park and preserve. Inside, the Big Branch Trail–a two-mile loop–will lead you to the glorious Big Branch Falls. A rush of water drops from a cliff about eight feet tall and flows down moss-covered stones. Unlike some other waterfalls, Big Branch Falls is tucked away in its own little section of nature, resulting in a fantastic backdrop. The trail and falls are about an hour from the Canyon Rim Visitor Center.