Big Branch Falls call the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve home, flowing through a dense canopy of green and blanketed wildflower forest. This cascading wonder has an 8-foot drop that spans out across bedrock to create the perfect heavenly backdrop. To find this scenic wonder, begin at Brooks Falls Parking Area before crossing the road to find the start of the Big Branch Trail, which will take you on a 2-mile loop, passing by the falls.

One of Almost Heaven's tallest waterfalls, Blackwater Falls cascades a plunging 57 feet. This impressive falls is named for the distinct amber color of its waters, dyed by the tannic acid of fallen hemlock and red spruce needles. Along the Gentle Trail of Blackwater Falls State Park, you can soak up a scenic view like no other. Snap a picture at one of the most photographed sites in West Virginia with this birds-eye view of Blackwater Falls. The Gentle Trail is ADA accessible.

Brush Creek Falls roars along a tributary of the Bluestone River – standing at over 30 feet tall in Mercer County. Start at the small parking area and take the Brush Creek Falls Trail a quarter mile before reaching this scenic cascade. To make a day of your adventures, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy before exploring the nearby Camp Creek State Park.

Butcher Branch Falls tumbles down a tiered sandstone wall, creating a series of picturesque cascades. Find this secluded spot by following Butcher Branch Trail from Kaymoor parking area. When the path forks, you'll want to hang a right onto the offshoot labeled "climbers’ access." This steep trek down a series of rocky switchbacks will include some minor scrambling – simply follow the sound of the tumbling falls past the rockface, popular among climbers, to find your way. A hidden gem in the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, these falls are worth the trip for any true waterfall wanderer.

Well-known for its picturesque backdrop, Campbell Falls can be found within Camp Creek State Park in the mountains of Mercer County. With a multitude of shelves, all 15 feet of these cascades pour into an oval pool – the perfect location for fishing or swimming in warmer weather. Start on Camp Creek Road, before stopping at a small pull-off and following a short path to this roadside beauty.

Cathedral Falls is one of the tallest and most scenic waterfalls found in Almost Heaven. This natural wonder sits at 60 feet tall, with waters plunging over sandstone and shale cliffs. Cathedral falls is both beautiful and easy to access – visible from Route 60 and with a designated parking area. Follow the short roadside path to get up close and personal with this mountain wonder.

To find this deceptively unassuming beauty, watch for rail trail signs along WV Route 1, also known as Clear Fork Road. The closest access point to the rail trail allows for an easy walk to the base of the waterfall. Navigating toward the falls, GPS driving directions will take you to the parking area, just adjacent to the Larry Allen “Crocky” Holstein, Jr. Memorial Bridge. Once parked, head to the trail kiosk from the road and turn left to follow the wide gravel path – just under a quarter of a mile upstream. Since there is limited cell service in the area, be sure to download your route ahead of time.

While hikers and cyclists will hear flowing water from the trail, you may not see the full majesty of this waterfall unless you take a moment to peer up into the canopy. From this perspective, you can appreciate the multi-tiered waterfall that extends like stairsteps at least 40 feet up the mountainside into dense forest cover. In spring or after a heavy rain, you will spot multiple smaller falls along this section of the trail.

Tucked away in Coonskin Park just outside the capital city is a hidden waterfall known as The Grotto. These short cascades – spilling into a shallow cave, shaded by a sandstone overhang – are best enjoyed after a good rainfall. Make your way past the stone monument at the trailhead, hang a left on Alice Knight Memorial Trail and follow the red blazes for about a third of a mile before arriving at this unique structure. You’ll want to watch your footing on this rocky, sometimes narrow trail, but (once you arrive) you'll find this treasure is the perfect nook to relax while chasing waterfalls.

Cranberry Creek Cascades is a natural treasure in the downtown Beckley area. To access the falls, take Stanaford Mine Road in Beckley and drive a quarter-mile to enter onto the Piney Creek Preserve entrance. Wildwood Trailhead and Waterfall Hollow Trail are on the right. Take the stone steps and make your way onto the Waterfall Hollow Trail. This trail is a former coal mine bench – making the 100-yard walk relatively flat. You will be greeted by two separate waterfalls at the Little Whitestick Creek and Cranberry Creek confluence: Cranberry Creek Cascades on the right, and Little Whitestick Falls to the left. Your walk is almost completed when you hear the relaxing sound of layering cascades gushing over the slippery rocks of Cranberry Creek.

Head to Clay, West Virginia to explore the beauty of Buffalo Creek. Driving to the location of this waterfall, you will find yourself in the parking area of Rail Explorers, where – starting on June 8, 2024 – you can purchase tickets to ride the rails on their state-of-the-art rail bikes. Enjoy the views and scenery for about 5 miles until you approach the striking sight of Devil’s Sawmill, which is a local gem.

Waterfall wanderers hoping to check-in before Rail Explorer’s grand opening on June 8, will need to hike or cycle to the site, which is also feasible, by parking at the Rail Explorers headquarters and traveling approximately 5 miles along the railroad to come upon Devil’s Sawmill. Watch for railbikes and wildlife along the tracks, as you trek or ride 10 miles total to see the falls.

Keep your eyes peeled to be sure you catch a glimpse of the stunning Drawdy Falls in Boone County. Sitting just off Route 3, these falls are a perfect pair, reaching 6 feet in height. Surrounded by rock shelves, these falls pour into Drawdy Creek – creating the perfect roadside oasis for you to stop and enjoy. Get an up-close view by parking across the road at Drawdy Falls Roadside Park and carefully making your way back over towards the falls.

Found near the abandoned mining town of Thurmond is a hidden waterfall – Dunloup Falls. These flowing cascades stumble 20 feet across a sandstone ledge, capping the falls for a view worth seeking out. Catch your first glimpse from a roadside parking spot along Thurmond Road, before making the quick scramble down to the creek bed for the perfect view.

The gorgeous Elakala Falls is a series of four waterfalls found within Blackwater Falls State Park. With waters stained from hemlock and red spruce needles, these falls boast a distinctive red hue that pours over staggered rock steps. Beginning right by the Blackwater Falls Lodge, the Elakala Trail is your route to enjoy these gorgeous falls – and be sure to look down, as your path will take you directly above the first falls along a wooden bridge.

Just off U.S. Route 19 on Pleasant Hill Road in Braxton County is a photogenic and wide cascade spanning the entire width of the Little Kanawha River: Falls Mill. Embrace the view from the roadside overlook to catch a truly panoramic snapshot of this expansive waterfall. After viewing the falls, relax and enjoy the day at the nearby picnic shelter.

A crown jewel of the Monongahela National Forest, the Falls of Hills Creek are hidden off of the Highland Scenic Highway, just 5 miles west of the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center. Consisting of three cascading falls, the Falls of Hills Creek is surrounded by lush, green foliage and blooming rhododendrons in spring. The Falls of Hills Creek Trail will take you along a 1.3-mile out and back trek, moving lower towards the last falls in a series of pathways and wooden stairs. An ADA accessible boardwalk provides views of the first falls.

The Falls of Pendleton stumble over a moss-covered cliff within the lush Blackwater Falls State Park. This majestic beauty is found where Pendleton Run tumbles into the roaring Blackwater River. While the falls are not accessible by an official trail, the best way to catch a glimpse of these remote cascades across the canyon is via a roadside overlook. Experienced waterfall wanderers know to visit in winter or early spring when the bare trees reveal more of the falls and rock features.

In the heart of the New River Gorge region find Finn's Falls. Begin by entering ACE Adventure Resort and following signs to Waterfall Trail, located just before you turn into the resort's parking area. Traverse this trail for around a mile until it splits off to Finn’s Falls Trail, which will quickly take you right up to these majestic falls. With a picnic table and bench nearby, you can take in the view of this outdoor beauty while enjoying the relaxing sound of flowing waters.

Flanagan Branch Falls is tucked away on the Old Sewell Trail at the beautiful Babcock State Park. To start your adventure, park near the historic Glade Creek Grist Mill and begin your waterfall trek on the Old Sewell Trail. Watch the water glide over the smooth river rock and gradually spread out from a narrow peak. Flanagan Branch Falls is another reason to visit one of Almost Heaven's most beautiful state parks.

Found along Glade Creek Trail within the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, Glade Creek Falls creates a spectacular view with its picturesque cascades rushing over sandstone ledges. There's no wrong way to tackle this gorgeous hike with its plunging mountain waters that make it a favorite destination in Almost Heaven, found just 1 mile upstream of Glade Creek Campground.

Beneath the historic grist mill at Babcock State Park, water rushes to form the Glade Creek Grist Mill Falls. With a short stone pathway leading you to the beautiful cascades, these falls are a photographer's dream – and one of the most photographed spots in West Virginia. Mark your calendar for a visit in fall, when this scenic spot transforms into a leaf-peeper’s paradise.

Winding through Shavers Mountain in the Potomac Highlands, the High Falls of the Cheat is one of the Mountain State's most distinctive waterfalls. Though these falls are short in height, their signature feature is an impressive width, with cascades roaring across the mountainsides over a horseshoe bend of rocks. Find this spot along the High Falls Trail, which provides a beautiful – yet challenging hike.

Uniquely located minutes away from downtown Beckley and the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, Little Whitestick Falls is worth a visit for all waterfall enthusiasts. To access the falls, take Stanaford Mine Road in Beckley and drive a quarter-mile to enter Piney Creek Preserve (there is a pull-off nearby). Wildwood Trailhead and Waterfall Hollow Trail are on the right. Take the stone steps at the Wildwood Trailhead and follow the Waterfall Hollow Trail for about 100 yards. The trail was formerly a coal mine bench and makes for a mostly flat walk. As the trail forks, this reveals Little Whitestick Falls at the confluence of Little Whitestick Creek to your left. While you’re here, you can also explore the peaceful Cranberry Creek Cascades on the right.

Located near mile-marker 8.1 on the 78-mile Greenbrier River Trail, the Loopemount Waterfall is a hidden gem within a thick, peaceful forest. Park near the Harper Road trailhead and trek north 2 miles along the lush rail trail to find this Greenbrier County gem. This spot's wide water flow is the strongest during the springtime, but you can discover a gentle stream during the warmer months. Surround yourself with the fresh air and enjoy one of the most remote waterfalls in Almost Heaven.

Enjoy stunning views of the many layers of cascading waters at Mann’s Creek Falls in Babcock State Park. Begin your journey at the Narrow Gauge trailhead located on the service road below the park’s campground. The splashing of the tiny, but mighty, plummeting falls makes for a soothing experience after getting some steps in on the Narrow Gauge Trail.

Twin Falls Resort State Park is home to two seasonal waterfalls that give the park its name – Marsh Fork Falls and Black Fork Falls. Found in the rugged mountains of southern West Virginia, these falls can be viewed from the 1-mile Falls Trail loop within the park. Marsh Fork Falls and Black Fork Falls tend to dry up during the warmer months, so be sure to visit them after a little rain or in the spring and winter seasons.

Located within Camp Creek State Park, Mash Fork Falls lies within the forests of Mercer County along the waterway known as Mash Fork – which empties into Camp Creek. Standing at 8 feet tall, this outdoor gem plunges over a sandstone ledge. Reach the ADA-accessible parking area and viewing platform by driving along the gravel road that winds past Mash Fork Campground.

Mill Creek Falls can be spotted while hiking along the Hawks Nest Rail Trail. With waters falling in a 20-foot drop, these falls are the largest of several found along the trail. This beautiful spot offers gorgeous views all year round, so your less than one-mile hike to this treasure will be a treat no matter when you pass by. When navigating from Ansted down to the parking area for the rail trail, you’ll be following a steep, one-lane gravel road, so you’ll want to take it slow and check the weather conditions.
Waterfall Wanderer Tip: Continue on the rail trail toward Hawk’s Nest Marina and then onto Fisherman’s Trail to view Turkey Creek Falls, another stop along the West Virginia Waterfall Trail.

Within the woods of the Kumbrabow State Forest, Mill Creek Falls is a hidden gem of the Allegheny Highlands. Standing at just 20-feet tall, this small cascade pools into the mountain streams that lie below. Perched within West Virginia's highest forest, Mill Creek Falls is also a popular swimming hole and fishing spot for anglers.
Your GPS or phone application maps may steer you in the wrong direction when traveling to this beauty. Instead, from U.S. Route 219, take Kumbrabow Road (219/16), following this route to the top of the mountain and turning right onto 219/38 to follow the signs toward Kumbrabow State Forest Cabins. At the bottom of the mountain, a large gravel parking area will be visible from which visitors can access the waterfall.

Home to the historic Virginia Furnace, Muddy Creek is a roadside park along Route 26 that can be found on the National Register of Historic Places. While the furnace is an impressive heritage site, it also boasts rapids known as Muddy Creek Falls. With a small parking lot along with access to a picnic area, the falls offer a stunning snapshot when the water is running just right.

Slip into your water shoes, park along Falls Drive and carefully make your way across the shallow stream and up wooden steps to the viewing platform to catch a glimpse of these cascading waters. Or start your waterfall hunt at Schrader Center, following the 0.8 mile out-and-back Falls Vista Trail to enjoy all that Oglebay Falls has to offer. Oglebay Falls is picturesque with its unique double drop that flows over a moss-covered floor. Walk right up to these stunning falls to experience the beauty of the Northern Panhandle.

Nestled in Bethany College’s leafy and historic campus, this waterfall is a familiar feature to students and a delightful surprise for visitors. Make your way along Campus Drive until you come upon a trailhead sign near the Steinman Fine Arts Center, marking the Waterfall Trail. The Waterfall Trail and Sutton Trail form a loop that is approximately one mile long. You will also find yourself amid Parkinson Forest, an old-growth forest teeming with sugar maples, American beeches and several white oak trees that are over 200 years old.

With a 30+ foot drop on Pipestem Creek, Pipestem Falls is a hidden gem located along Route 20, approximately 11 miles south of Hinton. Follow the wooden steps by the pull-off and let the roaring waters guide the way, as the summer leaves hide the falls from the road. This unique falls is the perfect addition to any road trip through beautiful southern West Virginia.

Found within the nation's 63rd national park, Sandstone Falls is the largest waterfall in the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve. Spanning over 1,500 feet wide, this large series of falls is divided by a collection of small islands. Take a quick walk along the boardwalk to view the rushing waters that carved out this slice of Almost Heaven – and continue your adventure in this area known for its wide variety of wildflowers. The scenic views at this falls are ADA accessible.

Located in the Monongahela National Forest, Seneca Creek Falls is one of Pendleton County’s most secluded spots. Hidden at the base of the highest point in WV, Spruce Knob, this waterfall is a nature lover’s dream. The cool waters and large rocks make it a picturesque location, with several beautiful camping spots nearby. Be sure to come prepared for a 5-mile hike along Seneca Creek Trail, passing several creeks to reach these breathtaking falls.

Sugar Camp Run Falls is one of a handful of beautiful waterfalls at Babcock State Park. Water rushes between several angular boulders, creating a unique flow – especially after heavy rainfall. Babydog visited the waterfall earlier this spring and word has it that this is the English Bulldog’s favorite cascade. Parking in the historic Glade Creek Grist Mill lot provides easy access to the Old Sewell Trail. Let the scenic trail guide you to this natural beauty and become one with the serenity of Sugar Camp Run Falls.

Located at Mason-Dixon Historical Park near Morgantown, Tucker Falls is a 14-foot hidden gem. This charming little park borders the Mason-Dixon line, making Tucker Falls one of the most northern waterfalls in Almost Heaven. Take a stroll along the banks of Dunkard Creek on Green Trail and cross over to Orange Trail for a combined one-mile walk. As you approach this Monongalia County cascade, your ears will pick up its soothing water sounds tucked away at the end of Orange Trail.

Cascades descend through the cliffs and boulders of the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve to form Turkey Creek Falls. With an 8-foot drop flowing over staircase rocks, the falls are best enjoyed via a short half-mile hike along Fisherman’s Trail from the Hawks Nest Marina parking area. From the same parking area at the Marina, visitors can also access the Hawks Nest Rail Trail and make their way up the gentle 6% grade toward Mill Creek Falls of Hawks Nest (about 1.5 miles from the Marina parking area).

Nestled within a cove of rhododendron and lush greenery, the Upper and Lower Falls are each a stunning sight to behold in Holly River State Park. Start your adventure on Pickens Grade Road before turning off into a parking lot where you can view the Upper Falls and set out on a trek to the Lower Falls. If you are looking to get up close and personal with this series of waterfalls, they can also be accessed along Potato Knob Trail.

Created by the dark, rushing waters of the Tygart Valley River, Valley Falls is intertwined between rock faces at 10-foot drops. Popular with kayakers searching for adventure, these stunning cascades are spectacular to see and hear with a front-row seat to the action easily found within Valley Falls State Park. Views of this beautiful cascade are ADA accessible.

Westerly Falls, also known as Paint Creek Falls, is a charming, short-dropped waterfall in Fayette County. With water plummeting from 5 to 7 feet high, Westerly Falls spans the entire width of Paint Creek and boasts some powerful cascades.

Due to a temporary road closure, Westerly Falls is only accessible via one route, and you may encounter inaccuracies using GPS directions. Instead, take the exit from I-64 toward Mossy Oak Hill and make a left turn onto Milburn Road. Proceed a little over a mile and then take a hairpin turn to continue on Milburn Road. The falls will appear on your right after traveling another one-and-a-half miles. Want to get a closer look? If you are up to the rugged trek, scramble down the short and moderately steep path starting near the roadside pull-off to creek level.

Whitaker Falls is a small series of cascades surrounded by stunning greenery perfect for your Instagram feed. Located within the Mountain Lakes region, this waterfall is secluded enough for the perfect outdoor escape. You can easily catch a glimpse of Whitaker Falls as you drive along Valley Fork Road – but you will want to stop and soak up this view.

After parking at the access point for Brush Creek Falls, continue down the trail past Brush Creek’s rushing waters, another 1.75 miles to reach the more delicate White Oak Falls. This gentle cascade tumbles over tiered rock formations – where the White Oak Branch meets the Bluestone River. As you make your way back to the Brush Creek Falls parking area, you’ll round out your hike at about 4 miles total, through both State Parks and Nature Conservancy land.