Some of us are natural-born explorers who thrive on long excursions into the forests of West Virginia. Others of us prefer to enjoy the Mountain State’s abundant natural beauty with a little less effort. Luckily, one of the state’s most magnificent natural wonders is accessible by the shortest and sweetest hike you’ll ever take. Cathedral Falls is just steps away from the roadside in Gauley’s Bridge and if you haven’t made the pilgrimage to see it, you’ll want to right away!

Cathedral Falls is one of West Virginia's tallest and most gorgeous waterfalls. It's also one of the easiest to visit.
TripAdvisor/royalpalmtree
Located roadside on Route 60 in the town of Gauley Bridge, you'll enjoy a scenic winding drive along the New River to reach this natural treasure.
Google Maps
The falls are visible from the parking area but if you really want the best view, you'll have to take a short "hike." A small bridge gives access to well-worn paths leading up to either side of the falls.
Google Images/Nick Schaer
The water spills over the side of the mountain into a breathtaking valley, cascading 60 feet over stone ledges in a spectacular display.
Flickr/laserbub_Drew

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As you walk into the "C" shaped towering cove to get closer to the falls, the sound is magnified by the rock all around. This natural amphitheater is the stage Cathedral Falls has carved for itself.
Google Images/Rishiraj Sahoo
During the warmer months, you'll feel like you've been transported into a lush tropical jungle. It's hard to believe this enchanting setting is just steps from the roadside.
Flickr/jamiev_03
As the seasons change, the water flow patterns do too. The cascades follow different paths down the mountainside depending on weather and the amount of water.
Flickr/Gene
Of course, the best time to visit a waterfall is right after heavy rain. But Cathedral Falls is a beautiful natural wonder that astounds any day of the year.
Flickr/Gene
You can find the map to this easy-to-reach waterfall here.

If chasing waterfalls is one of your passions, grab some friends and head out on this West Virginia waterfall road trip to visit a handful of the best all in one weekend!

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