Waterfalls Worth Chasing in Northern West Virginia

Discover some of West Virginia’s most breathtaking cascades on a road trip through the state’s northern regions. While this trip features the state’s most prominent northern waterfalls, it will also introduce you to stunning rivers, soothing hiking trails and several state parks. Check these six gorgeous waterfalls off your bucket list while exploring the backroads between beloved mountain towns. Soak in the fresh air of the graceful hidden cascades that are perfect for any waterfall adventurer.

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Blackwater Falls

Davis, WV ● 39.11301, -79.48

Starting off your trip in Davis, WV, Blackwater Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in the mountain state and was named one of the top waterfalls in the nation by Travel + Leisure. The cascade plunges 57 feet into the Blackwater River that blends into the Cheat River. The roaring falls gets its name from the dyed watercolor from hemlock and spruce tree needles. The Gentle Trail that connects this cascade to the parking lot is the perfect nature walk to start off your road trip.

Elakala Falls

Davis, WV ● 39.10782, -79.49782

After entering Davis and pulling into Park Forrest Road 807, you can find the Elakala trail to your left. Elakala Falls is one of the 4 different waterfalls on Shays Run and is a local favorite in Blackwater Falls State Park. Be sure to look down, as the trail will take you directly above the first falls along a wooden bridge. Before heading towards the Falls of Pendleton, you can also check out the Pendleton overlook for a better glimpse of Elakala.

Falls of Pendleton

Davis, WV ● 39.114645, -79.501297

Also found in the Blackwater Falls State Park, The Falls of Pendleton stumble over a moss-covered cliff that’s accessible from the Dobbin House Woodcock Trail. This majestic beauty is found where Pendleton Run tumbles into the roaring Blackwater River, creating the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of adventure.

Muddy Creek Falls

Albright, WV ● 39.52966, -79.63279

The next waterfall is about an hour’s drive away towards Albright and is home to the historic Virginia Furnace. Muddy Creek Falls can be found on a roadside park along Route 26. 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. The next drive to Valley Falls State Park, near Fairmont, is an hour from Muddy Creek.

Valley Falls

Fairmont, WV ● 39.38854, -80.08741

Valley Falls spans over the Tygart Valley River giving the falls a darker hue. The 10-foot drops over rock faces make it the perfect getaway for optimistic kayakers, giving them endless views and sounds from a front-row seat. Check out some of the scenic hiking trails the state park has to offer if you have extra time before your next destination. Your next journey is about a 2-hour drive and will take you to Oglebay Falls in Wheeling, West Virginia.

Oglebay Falls

Wheeling, WV ● 40.092863, -80.659709

Once you have arrived in Oglebay, 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. After your cascade adventure, check out the several hiking trails in the park, the Ariel rock climbing wall or go horseback riding to wrap up your trip!

If you would like to follow along this road trip, you can access the map here.

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Waterfalls Worth Chasing in Northern West Virginia

Blackwater Falls

Blackwater Falls

Elakala Falls

Elakala Falls

Falls of Pendleton

Falls of Pendleton

Muddy Creek Falls

Muddy Creek Falls

Valley Falls

Valley Falls

Oglebay Falls

Oglebay Falls

Discover Featured Falls

Sandstone Falls

Glade Creek Grist Mill Falls

Big Branch Falls

Turkey Creek Falls

Drawdy Falls

Coonskin Grotto

Dunloup Falls

Seneca Creek Falls

Falls of Hills Creek

Mill Creek Falls of Hawk’s Nest

Glade Creek Falls

Valley Falls

Upper and Lower Falls of Holly River

Oglebay Falls

Mill Creek Falls of Kumbrabow

Kanawha Falls

Muddy Creek Falls

Finn’s Falls

Elakala Falls

Cathedral Falls

Campbell Falls

Brush Creek Falls

Marsh Fork Falls and Black Fork Falls

Falls of Pendleton

Butcher Branch Falls

Mash Fork Falls

Whitaker Falls

High Falls of the Cheat

Little Whitestick Falls

Pipestem Falls

Mann’s Creek Falls

White Oak Falls

Flanagan Branch Falls

Westerly Falls

Loopemount Waterfall

Tucker Falls

Cranberry Creek Cascades

Falls Mill

Parkinson’s Waterfall

Sugar Camp Run Falls

Clear Fork Rail Trail Waterfall

Blackwater Falls

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