Gov. Jim Justice announced over the Memorial Day weekend, the West Virginia Waterfall Trail surpassed 75,000 participant check-ins. The popularity of the nation’s first statewide waterfall trail continues to grow, with data showing that visitors from all 50 U.S. states and 41 countries are now joining the fun.
As the summer season kicks off, the department of tourism is adding three more falls, bringing the total number of stellar stops along the trail to 43.
“It is absolutely beyond belief that our West Virginia Waterfall Trail has reached over 75,000 check-ins. We’re talking about West Virginians and visitors from all 50 states and 41 countries who have explored these trails,” said Justice. “I couldn’t be more excited that we’re adding three more incredible waterfalls to this trail. It opens up even more opportunities for folks to get out there and experience the breathtaking beauty right here in Almost Heaven.”
The West Virginia Waterfall Trail has been nationally recognized by major travel publications such as Travel + Leisure, USA Today, Southern Living and Fodor’s Travel. The trail continues to receive remarkable participation, as more than 10,000 prizes have been awarded to visitors for their adventuring efforts. Iconic favorites such as Cathedral Falls, Kanawha Falls and Blackwater Falls remain some of the most visited falls. The trail also features lesser-known hidden gems, including Seneca Creek Falls, Parkin’s Waterfall and Loopemount Waterfall.
“We are absolutely thrilled to see the West Virginia Waterfall Trail receive 75,000 check-ins,” said Chelsea Ruby, West Virginia Tourism secretary. “Our beautiful state is home to the most abundant collection of falls, and we are thankful to be able to share that with the rest of the world in a fun and engaging way. Whether you’re just getting started or already completed the old list, there’s another waterfall just waiting to be explored in Almost Heaven, West Virginia!”
The department of tourism added three new falls to the trail. Each of these waterfalls has been made more accessible for visitors in recent months due to trail infrastructure improvements.
- Clear Fork Rail Trail Waterfall
To find this deceptively unassuming beauty, watch for rail Clear Fork 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 waterfall, GPS driving directions will take a person 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 the route ahead of time.
While hikers and cyclists will hear flowing water as they pass by along the Clear Fork Rail Trail, a person may not see the full majesty of this waterfall unless one takes a moment to peer up into the canopy. From this perspective, one 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, multiple smaller falls will be spotted along this section of the trail.
- White Oak Falls
Nestled within the lush forests of Mercer County, White Oak Falls can now be accessed with a four-mile total out-and-back hike through a scenic valley along the Bluestone River. A partnership between the Mercer County Commission, the Nature Conservatory and Camp Creek State Park has led to trail expansions and improvements beyond Brush Creek Falls, giving way to the additional two miles connecting to the beautiful White Oak Falls.
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 a person makes way back to the Brush Creek Falls parking area, one will round out the hike at about four miles total, through both State Parks and Nature Conservancy land.
- Devil’s Sawmill
Head to Clay to explore the beauty of Buffalo Creek. Driving to the location of this waterfall, a person will find oneself in the parking area of Rail Explorers, where one can purchase tickets to ride the rails on their state-of-the-art railbikes. Enjoy the views and scenery for about five miles until one approaches the striking sight of Devil’s Sawmill, which is a local gem.
Waterfall wanderers can also hike or cycle to the site by parking at the Rail Explorers headquarters and traveling approximately five miles along the railroad to come upon Devil’s Sawmill. Watch for rail bikes and wildlife along the tracks, as one treks or rides 10 miles total to see the falls.
To get started with the Waterfall Trail, visit WVtourism.com/waterfalls and register to have the West Virginia Waterfall Trail passport delivered straight to a person’s smartphone. Those who have already registered and want to restart their adventures can text “resend waterfall trail passport” to 1-888-921-5333 to be connected with a support agent.
The West Virginia Department of Tourism rewards waterfall chasers with exclusive gear along the way. Check in at three or more waterfalls and receive a custom sticker. Check in at 10 or more waterfalls and receive an aluminum water bottle. Check in at 20 or more waterfalls and receive a waterfall wanderer T-shirt. Check in at all locations and receive a limited edition letterpress print.
