There are some incredible waterfalls nestled among the forests in West Virginia. Whether you’re looking for an intense hike to hidden falls or an easy stop on the side of the road, West Virginia has it all. Enjoy the majestic view of rushing water hidden among the trees at these top West Virginia waterfalls.
Waterfalls in West Virginia
1. Blackwater Falls
2. Douglas Falls
3. Elakala Falls
4. High Falls
5. Cathedral Falls
6. Babcock Mill Creek Falls
7. Pipestem Falls
8. Falls of Hills Creek
9. Sandstone Falls
10. Twin Falls
Visiting Waterfalls in West Virginia
Her are 10 of our favorite popular waterfalls in West Virginia.
1. Blackwater Falls
Blackwater Falls State Park is home to the iconic Blackwater Falls, a 62-foot waterfall where the water looks blackish from the fallen leaves of hemlock and red spruce needles that surround the water. Aside from viewing the waterfall, there are 20 miles of trails that visitors can hike and bike to explore the park. In summer you can also swim, fish, and boat in Pendleton Lake and Blackwater River.
Things to do near Blackwater Falls: Check out the rest of the state park, including the next two waterfalls! The towns of Davis, Elkins, and Morgantown are also nearby which have all sort of fun shopping, dining, and entertainment activities. And if you need an RV, here are some nearby rentals to consider.
2. Douglas Falls
Another waterfall near Blackwater Falls State Park is Douglas Falls. This waterfall is considered one of the best in the state and is incredibly scenic. This waterfall is located a short drive away from the state park where the North Fork Blackwater River creates a 35-foot waterfall. The water drops into a stunning pool surrounded by orange stained rocks that stand out against the blue water.
Things to do near Douglas Falls: This waterfall is just outside the town of Thomas. You can also check out Blackwater State Park for views of Blackwater Falls and the next stop, Elakala Falls.
3. Elakala Falls
Located in Blackwater Falls State Park is a second waterfall, Elakala Falls. It’s actually a series of four falls, two upper and two lower falls. The first of the falls can be easily reached by the park trails. There’s even a bridge over the first falls for fantastic photo opportunities. The other falls are harder to reach and have no official trails to reach them. Only experienced hikers should try to get to waterfalls, as the terrain is difficult and can be dangerous. However, even the first of the falls will leave you with amazing views and photos.
Things to do near Elakala Falls: Check out the rest of the Blackwater Falls State Park, and the popular Blackwater Falls waterfall. The towns of Davis, Elkins, and Morgantown are also nearby which have all sort of fun shopping, dining, and entertainment activities. Here are some nearby RV rentals to consider.
4. High Falls
One of the highest waterfalls in the Monongahela National Forest is High Falls, which sits at 2,800 feet in elevation. While the falls themselves aren’t very tall, both the hike and the falls are beautiful and well worth the effort. The High Falls trailhead will take hikers through old growth trees to the falls. The hike is over 7 miles, but your reward is this gorgeous waterfall.
Things to do near High Falls: Explore more of the Monongahela National Forest, including several other waterfalls nearby. The national forest also has an extensive trail system for those looking to hike in this beautiful area.
5. Cathedral Falls
If you’re looking to glimpse a waterfall without an intense hike, Cathedral Falls is the answer. This 60 foot waterfall is located one mile east of Gauley Bridge on US 60 and can be seen from the road. Pull into the parking area to view this steep cascading waterfall, or take a short walk down the trail for an even better view.
Things to do near Cathedral Falls: There’s another waterfall close by that didn’t make our list called Kanawha Falls. It’s only two miles down US 60, and it’s worth a stop since you’re so close. Hawks Nest State Park is also only six miles away.
6. Babcock Mill Creek Falls
Babcock State Park has several waterfalls located on the grounds, but some of the most photographed are right by Glade Creek Grist Mill. This mill is a fully functional replica right near the site of the original Cooper’s Mill. While this waterfall might not be the tallest or widest you’ve ever seen, between the foliage, historic mill, and trickling water, you’ll see why it’s such a popular destination.
Things to do near Babcock Mill Creek Falls: Explore the rest of Babcock State Park, then head over to New River Gorge National Park. Blackwater Falls State Park is also nearby, as well as Seneca Rocks. We have a great selection of local RV rentals for you to check out.
7. Pipestem Falls
Just off the side of Route 20 lies Pipestem Falls. It’s another waterfall that’s easy to access, with a small parking area and a roadside park. The falls are along Pipestem Creek which flows into Bluestone River. It’s a series of cascading waterfalls about 30 feet high. These falls are actually a few miles from Pipestem Resort State Park, which is a great place to stop after visiting the waterfall.
Things to do near Pipestem Falls: Explore Pipestem Resort State Park for a variety of outdoor activities from hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding to kayaking, fishing, and swimming. We’ve got you covered with a guide to the park and local RV rentals.
8. Falls of Hills Creek
The next set of waterfalls on our list is only a short drive from Cranberry Mountain Nature Center in the Monongahela National Forest. There are three different waterfalls that range from 25 to 63 feet tall. All the falls can be accessed by a series of trails in the national forest. There are several viewing places, including a 1,700-foot handicap-accessible walkway to the first waterfall, making it easy to access and view the falls. You can also walk down a trail and a series of steps to the second waterfall.
Things to do near Falls of Hills Creek: Watoga State Park is down the road and offers plenty to explore like Watoga Lake, Anne Bailey’s Lookout Tower and the Brooks Memorial Arboretum. Need an RV to get there? We’ve got a great selection of local rentals.
9. Sandstone Falls
This next gorgeous waterfall is in New River Gorge National Park. Sandstone Falls is the largest waterfall on the New River and shouldn’t be missed when visiting the park. The Sandstone Falls Loop Hiking Trail is just over a mile long and a scenic hike over farmland that ends with a view of the waterfall. And the drive to the falls through New River Gorge National Park is beautiful as well.
Things to do near Sandstone Falls: Since you’re in the park, be sure to take some time to explore the rest. Hike, bike, or kayak your way through New River Gorge National Park. We’ve got a guide to help you find campsites and activities, and have you covered with RV rentals.
10. Twin Falls
Located in Twin Falls Resort State Park, our last stop is made up of two waterfalls – Marsh Fork Falls and Black Fork Falls. Both waterfalls are accessible by trails in the park. The Falls Trail Loop is about a mile long and will take you past both of the falls. And once you’ve seen the falls, be sure to enjoy the rest of the outdoor activities the park has to offer.
Things to do near Twin Falls: Twin Falls Resort State Park has a variety of fun things to do including a nature center, restored pioneer working farm, and plenty of hiking and swimming. And if you’re looking to visit nearby towns for shopping and dining, Pineville, West Virginia, and Oceana are an easy drive.
Planning an RV Trip to West Virginia
An RV trip is an excellent way to see the amazing waterfalls in West Virginia, and we’ve got all the resources you need to plan a perfect vacation.
Here are guides to some of the best state parks in West Virginia, as well as all the national parks in the country. And as always, we’re here to help when it comes to finding the best campgrounds and RV rentals.
