Mercer County, West Virginia is a waterfall hunter’s paradise. There are multiple falls within mere miles from one another, including Brush Creek Falls, which is one of the largest cascades in West Virginia. It’s a beautiful spot to sit and watch the roaring water from the pebbled river-stone beach at its base. But unless you get down on the level with the bottom of the falls, you might not realize what other fascinating natural formation Brush Creek Falls features: a cave hollowed out of the river rock that curves back behind the waterfall!

Brush Creek Falls, which is located in Brush Creek Falls Nature Preserve in Athens, is one of the most impressive yet easily accessed waterfalls in West Virginia.
Kendra H/Tripadvisor
There's no wrong season to tackle the wide, level .3-mile trail leading from the small parking area to the top of Brush Creek Falls.
Getting down to the base of the falls is slightly more difficult, but still very doable.
mitchell s/Tripadvisor
You'll notice multiple paths in the 100 or so feet following the fenced portion of the trail at the top of the falls that break off the main path and head steeply down the slope. They all lead to the pebbled beach you can see below the falls.
Once you get down to the beach, you'll spot something else fun: a cave that cuts back behind the falls!
Cristy/OIYS

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Depending on the water level of Brush Creek, you may be able to follow the beach all the way around into the cave, where you can perch and enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at this stunning cascade.
Cristy/OIYS
And while signs are posted at the top of the falls indicating that swimming isn't permitted in the area, you can at least sit at the edge of the water in the cool of this cave and dip your toes into the pool.
Cristy/OIYS
There's also a picnic shelter at the head of the trail if you want to bring lunch. But be advised that the parking lot is small and fills up quickly, especially on weekends. There is also limited roadside parking.
Cristy/OIYS
Also be aware that the road to the falls is narrow and contains blind curves, so take it slow!
Still, it's well worth these small drawbacks to enjoy a stroll through these woods that culminates in a cool, relaxing front-row seat to some of the most beautiful falls in the state!
Cristy/OIYS

Have you hiked to Brush Creek Falls before? What did you think? For directions and more information, see Visit Mercer County’s website!  And for a completely different kind of cave/waterfall pairing, don a hard hat and head to Sharps Cave.

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Brush Creek Falls Rd, Princeton, WV 24740, USA