Waterfall Guide
West Virginia Waterfall Guide
West Virginia is waterfall country. Browse the state's best cascades by region, difficulty and hike length, then plan your own waterfall road trip.
Spring snowmelt and summer rains keep streams full, which means Bluefield and the high Alleghenies are dotted with tumbling water. Many falls are roadside; others reward a short or long hike. Use the filters to narrow the list, and always check current conditions — wet rocks are slippery and flows vary dramatically by season.
Difficulty
Hike length
Region
Showing all waterfalls
Blackwater Falls
Tucker County · near Davis · 57 ft
Boardwalk and steps to a viewing platform. Best in spring and after rain. Full guide →
Sandstone Falls
Summers County · near Hinton · 15–25 ft drop
The widest waterfall on the New River, reached by boardwalk. Full guide →
Cathedral Falls
Fayette County · near Gauley Bridge · 60 ft
Right off US-60 with a small pull-off; a local favorite. More →
Elakala Falls
Tucker County · Blackwater Falls SP
A short, steep walk below Blackwater Lodge to a photogenic cascade. Full guide →
Falls of Hills Creek
Pocahontas County · near Highland Scenic Hwy
Three falls along a steep boardwalk and stair trail. More →
Campbell Falls
Mercer County · Camp Creek State Park
A short walk from the road in a park with 35 miles of trails. Park guide →
Marsh Fork & Black Fork Falls
Wyoming County · Twin Falls Resort SP
Two named falls reached by trails at a lodge resort. Park guide →
Falls of Dolly Sods
Tucker/Randolph · Dolly Sods Wilderness
A backcountry cascade on the Red Creek drainage. Wilderness guide →
Holly River waterfalls
Webster County · Holly River State Park
Tecumseh Falls and other cascades on a quiet forest trail. More →
Plan a waterfall road trip
A classic loop links Blackwater Falls, Elakala, Cathedral Falls and the Falls of Hills Creek. Add Sandstone Falls and Campbell Falls in the south, or drive the Midland Trail (US-60) for roadside falls. Our waterfall road trip guide covers distances, stops and lodging.
Waterfall FAQ
When is the best time to see waterfalls?
Spring snowmelt and after heavy rain give the strongest flow. Fall combines good water with colorful foliage.
Which waterfalls are roadside?
Blackwater Falls, Cathedral Falls and Sandstone Falls all have boardwalks or pull-offs with minimal walking.
Are the trails family friendly?
Many short boardwalk-style trails suit families, but some involve steep stairs and wet rock — watch children closely.
About
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