The North Fork of the Blackwater River is filled with cascade after picturesque cascade as it makes its descent down toward the Blackwater Canyon. This waterfall-filled stream is one of West Virginia’s hidden gems, and part of what earned the state the nickname “Wild and Wonderful.” No truer nickname was ever coined, unless maybe it’s “Almost Heaven!”
To see several of the prettiest cascades in West Virginia in a single day hike, take Douglas Road (County Route 27) out of Thomas, West Virginia. When it forks, take a left on Rail Falls Road (Route 27/3). This road is not well maintained; follow it as far as you can by car before transitioning to traveling by foot.
If you reach the rickety old wooden bridge, you've already passed Albert Falls. Also keep an eye out for some old coke oven ruins and signage about their history along this rough stretch of road!
A bit beyond the wooden bridge, you'll arrive at a gate across Rail Falls Road. If you've managed to drive all the way to this point, it's time to park and scramble down the riverbank to Douglas Falls just beyond the gate.
With aqua green water leftover from the coal mining era and sandstone boulders stained orange with tannin from local hemlock trees, this beautiful cascade is a stunning contrast in color.
For many, Douglas Falls is the final destination for the day. However, if you're up for more adventure, continue on the narrowed Blackwater Falls Trail beyond Douglas Falls to yet another, even more remote waterfall.
You can't see Kennedy Falls from the trail, but its location is marked by a rock cairn. Be careful as you leave the trail to scramble down the hillside - it's steep!
Have you made the hike to see one or all of these stunning West Virginia waterfalls? Which was your favorite? What time of year was it when you ventured along this route? For help with the location to one or all of these cascades, see them marked on Google Maps here.
Many adventurers visit Douglas Falls as part of their stay at nearby Blackwater Falls State Park, which you can learn more about here.
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