List of waterfalls in West Virginia facts for kids
West Virginia is a beautiful state known for its stunning natural scenery. One of its most amazing features is its many waterfalls! There are about 275 waterfalls flowing across West Virginia, both above ground and hidden deep inside caves. These natural wonders are created when rivers or streams flow over a sudden drop in elevation, creating a spectacular display of rushing water.
Amazing Waterfalls You Can See Above Ground
West Virginia has many incredible waterfalls that you can visit and enjoy. These are often found in state parks or along hiking trails, making them perfect for outdoor adventures. Each waterfall has its own unique look and story.
- Blackwater Falls: This famous waterfall is located in Blackwater Falls State Park in Tucker County. It's named for the dark, tea-colored water, which gets its color from tannic acid from hemlock and spruce trees. The falls drop between 57 and 63 feet (about 17 to 19 meters).
- Cathedral Falls: Found in Fayette County, Cathedral Falls is a beautiful waterfall that drops about 60 feet (18 meters). It's known for its wide, curtain-like appearance.
- Douglas Falls: Also in Tucker County, Douglas Falls tumbles about 35 feet (11 meters). It's a rugged and wild waterfall, often surrounded by interesting rock formations.
- Elakala Falls: Located in Blackwater Falls State Park, Elakala Falls is actually a series of four waterfalls. The third fall is about 40 feet (12 meters) high.
- Falls of Hills Creek (Lower): This impressive waterfall in Pocahontas County drops between 63 and 65 feet (about 19 to 20 meters). It's part of a beautiful area with several waterfalls.
- Kanawha Falls: Found in Fayette County, Kanawha Falls is a wide and powerful waterfall on the Kanawha River. It ranges from 15 to 21 feet (about 5 to 6 meters) in height.
- Sandstone Falls: Located in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Sandstone Falls is the largest waterfall on the New River. It's between 15 and 25 feet (about 5 to 8 meters) high and stretches across the entire river.
Here's a quick look at some of the surface waterfalls in West Virginia:
| Name | Height |
|---|---|
| Black Fork Falls | 20 ft (6.1 m) |
| Blackwater Falls | 57 to 63 ft (17 to 19 m) |
| Brush Creek Falls | 25 ft (7.6 m) |
| Cathedral Falls | 60 ft (18 m) |
| Douglas Falls | 35 ft (11 m) |
| Elakala Falls (3rd fall) | 40 ft (12 m) |
| Falling Spring Run Falls | 40 ft (12 m) |
| High Falls of Cheat | 15 to 18 ft (4.6 to 5.5 m) |
| Jordon Run Falls | 25 to 30 ft (7.6 to 9.1 m) |
| Kanawha Falls | 15 to 21 ft (4.6 to 6.4 m) |
| Hills Creek Falls (Lower) | 63 to 65 ft (19 to 20 m) |
| Mill Creek Falls | 20 ft (6.1 m) |
| Pendleton Falls | 20 ft (6.1 m) [fall] 150 ft (46 m) [cascade] |
| Pipestem Falls | 15 ft (4.6 m) |
| Sandstone Falls | 15 to 25 ft (4.6 to 7.6 m) |
| Valley Falls | 20 ft (6.1 m) |
| Wonder Falls | 15 ft (4.6 m) |
Hidden Waterfalls Underground
Did you know that West Virginia also has amazing waterfalls hidden deep inside caves? These underground waterfalls are often much taller than the ones you see on the surface! Exploring these caves and finding their hidden waterfalls is a unique adventure.
Here are some of the tallest underground waterfalls in the state:
| Name | Height |
|---|---|
| Suicide Falls (Cass Cave) | 139 ft (42 m) |
| Monster Falls (Friars Hole Cave) | 103 to 105 ft (31 to 32 m) |
