Last week, Gov. Jim Justice announced a substantial expansion of the popular West Virginia Waterfall Trail. Nine new stops have been added, bringing the nation’s first statewide waterfall trail to a total of 38 scenic cascades. After only a year since its establishment last June the trail received over 35,000 participant check-ins with visitors from 49 states and 15 countries.
“The popularity and recognition our West Virginia Waterfall Trail has received is flat-out incredible, and I’m excited that we’re expanding it today with some really special new falls,” Gov. Justice said. “I encourage all West Virginians, and all visitors to Almost Heaven, to get out and explore the trail this summer. You’ll get to experience the unmatched beauty of our Great State, all the while making memories that you’ll cherish forever.”
All the new destinations had support from local West Virginians, as the Department of Tourism asked the state’s residents to nominate their favorite waterfalls to be added to the trail. The newest stops include:
- Westerly Falls in Fayette County
- Pipestem Falls near Hinton, West Virginia
- Falls Mill in Braxton County
- Parkinson’s Waterfall in Bethany College’s historic campus.
- Mann’s Creek Falls in Babcock State Park.
- Sugar Camp Run Falls in Babcock State Park
- Flanagan Branch Falls in Babcock State Park
- Tucker Falls near Morgantown, West Virginia
- Loopemount Waterfall in Greenbrier County
“… It’s a unique offering for West Virginia as we continue to build our reputation as a true outdoor recreation state,” Chelsea Ruby, Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Tourism said. “I can’t wait to hear more stories and meet more folks out on the trail this summer. It’s an absolutely perfect summer activity for those looking to travel the state.”
People can win prizes by visiting locations along the trail and checking in with the West Virginia Waterfall Trail passport. Smartphone users can check in and download the passport at WVtourism.com/waterfalls.
