This Expansive West Virginia Trail System Highlights The State's Stunning Waterfalls

There are few feelings more exhilarating than turning a corner and finding a waterfall in your path. You may hear its rush in advance. Maybe you see the clouds of spray. But at some point, the waterfall simply appears, and thousands of gallons of water pour past your vision every second. That first impression stays with you as you hike around its perimeter, splash in its waters, and even explore crevices of rock behind the transparent curtains.

West Virginians know this feeling all too well. The state is thick with mountains and rivers, resulting in 275 named waterfalls throughout the region. They come in all heights and arrangements, from long drops into canyons to gentle spills over rocky rivers. To honor these magical water features, the West Virginia Waterfall Trail connects scores of cascades across the Mountain State, guiding visitors from one hydraulic wonder to the next. You can add many of these to the list of beautiful waterfalls in America you can swim in, or you could simply admire them from afar. There are no bad options.

The West Virginia Waterfall Trail guides visitors to dozens of different sites, from the Charleston suburbs to the Monongahela National Forest and Northern Panhandle. Several are located around New River Gorge National Park, an under-the-radar hotspot for outdoor adventures. The name of the trail is a little misleading, as there is no single path that leads travelers on foot from one waterfall to the next; marked destinations are scattered across the state, and most require you to drive — sometimes for hours on rural highways — to reach each one.

The Waterfall Trail was created by the West Virginia Department of Tourism to help guests find these scenic spots. The trail isn't an official part of the National Parks system, and participants will pass through a wide range of public spaces to see them all. Anyone can register for free on the Waterfall Trail website and download a "mobile passport." Since its inception, the Waterfall Trail has attracted over 75,000 registered users, representing all 50 states and at least 41 countries. 

The West Virginia Waterfall Trail is the first statewide trail system of its kind, which shouldn't surprise anyone who has visited the Mountain State. The state is famous for its hiking and outdoor sports, and multi-use routes like the 1,000-mile Hatfield and McCoy Trail have won global attention. Many of these waterfalls double as swimming holes or are tied to "cricks" and rivers that are practically designed for paddling. For example, the famous Kanawha Falls punctuate the Gauley River, an established run for whitewater rafting.

As you make your way across West Virginia, the many waterfalls are also a nice excuse to explore local towns, such as Fayetteville, Harpers Ferry, and Morgantown. Each has a smattering of pubs and eateries, and nearly all of them have left a significant mark on Appalachia — and the country. Williamson is another underrated destination great for immersing yourself in American history.