13 Must-Visit Waterfalls In The New River Gorge

April 30, 2025

Waterfalls weave their way through the landscape of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, spilling over cliffs and flowing through quiet forest streams. Many of these natural wonders are part of the West Virginia Waterfall Trail, so you can turn your next hike into a waterfall-chasing adventure.

1. Cathedral Falls

One of the most scenic and accessible waterfalls in West Virginia, Cathedral Falls is a 60-foot cascade located off Route 60 in Gauley Bridge. Water tumbles over sandstone and shale cliffs into a rocky pool below. A designated parking area and short path make it easy to enjoy up close. Soak in the sound of rushing water and don’t forget to snap a photo!

2. Kanawha Falls

Just down the road from Cathedral Falls, Kanawha Falls stretches across the Kanawha River, creating a wide, impressive display. While only 15 feet tall, the falls span the entire width of the river. Paddleboarding or canoeing from the boat launch downstream offers a closer view and access to coves tucked behind the falls. There’s also a public fishing access area, so anglers can try their luck at catching muskies, walleye, striped bass and more.

3. Dunloup Falls

Outside the former mining town of Thurmond lies a hidden treasure — Dunloup Falls. Flowing cascades crash 20 feet over a sandstone ledge, offering a serene, breathtaking spot to take in nature. You might even catch a train passing along the railroad tracks above the falls!

4. Butcher Branch Falls

From the Kaymoor Top Trailhead, hike about a mile on the Butcher Branch Trail to reach this secluded cascade. Butcher Branch Falls spills down a tiered sandstone wall, creating a series of scenic drops deep in the forest. This waterfall is rainfall-dependent, so it may be dry after a stretch without rain.

5. Westerly Falls

Westerly Falls flows just 5 to 7 feet across Paint Creek, but its size doesn’t diminish its charm. A roadside pull-off leads to a rugged trail that brings you down to creek level for a closer look. Its flow makes it a surprise highlight for road-trippers and a reminder that even small waterfalls can impress.

6. Finn’s Falls 

Located at ACE Adventure Resort, Finn’s Falls is a tranquil cascade found along a mile-long hike on the resort’s Waterfall Trail. A short detour leads to the falls, where a picnic table and bench offer a place to relax and enjoy the view. It’s a quiet reward at the end of a scenic walk.

Two people paddleboarding on a calm river with a dog standing on one board. A waterfall flows over rocky ledges in the background with forested hills behind.
A multi-tiered waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff surrounded by lush green vegetation. Two people and a dog stand on rocks at the base of the falls.

State Park Cascades 

The New River Gorge is home to two state parks — Babcock and Hawks Nest — each with trails leading to stunning waterfalls.

7. Turkey Creek Falls

Inside Hawks Nest State Park, Turkey Creek Falls is an 8-foot waterfall that spills over staircase-like rock formations. Begin your hike at the Hawks Nest gift shop and follow signs for the Cliffside Trail, veering left to trace Turkey Creek to the falls.

8. Mill Creek Falls of Hawks Nest

Take a one-mile hike along the Hawks Nest Rail Trail to reach Mill Creek Falls, the largest waterfall on the trail. With a 20-foot drop into a wide basin, it’s a striking sight in any season. After heavy rain, the cascade becomes even more striking.

9. Sugar Camp Run Falls

Follow the Old Sewell Trail in Babcock State Park to discover the unique flow of Sugar Camp Run Falls. After rainfall, water pours dramatically between large boulders for a one-of-a-kind view. 

10. Flanagan Branch Falls

Also found on the Old Sewell Trail, Flanagan Branch Falls glides over smooth rocks and fans out into a gentle, scenic cascade. Tucked deep in the woods, it’s a peaceful prize for those who venture off the beaten path.

11. Glade Creek Grist Mill Falls

Perhaps the most iconic of them all, these falls sit just below the historic Glade Creek Grist Mill at Babcock State Park. A short stone path leads to this picture-perfect scene — one of the most photographed spots in the state.

12. Mann’s Creek Falls

Along the Mann’s Creek Gorge Trail in Babcock, Mann’s Creek Falls rushes over several layers of rock. Though each drop is small on its own, the combined effect creates a powerful and beautiful sight. The trail begins at the Babcock State Park Campground Area near campsite 40. 

A person in walking toward a wide waterfall in a lush green forest setting. Large leafy plants are visible in the foreground with rocky terrain near the water's edge.
A series of small cascading waterfalls flowing over flat rock formations in a forest stream. Two people sit on rocks beside the water surrounded by green trees.

Bonus: Off the Trail, But Worth the Stop

Though not officially on the West Virginia Waterfall Trail, this cascade deserves a mention! 

13. Wolf Creek Falls

Located on the Kaymoor Trail near Fayette Station Road, Wolf Creek Falls pours down the hillside and under the trail itself. After crossing the bridge, hike just 0.1 miles uphill — the falls will be on your right.

Ready to Chase Waterfalls?

Follow the flow and see how many of these cascades you can discover on your next trip to the New River Gorge. Tag your photos with #GoGorge to share your adventure!