Falls of Hills Creek - Tundraco's Daily Living Guide to Travel

Tundraco's Daily Living Guide to Travel

Falls of Hills Creek

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A picture of the lower waterfall

The Lower Waterfall
Falls of Hills Creek

The Falls of Hills Creek
By Rochelle Caviness - December 6, 2004

Within the boundaries of Pocahontas County resides a host of outdoor recreational opportunities in West Virginia. From hiking and fishing to skiing and biking, Pocahontas County has something 'outdoorsy' to delight every member of the family from the sedate walks to activities that will enthrall adrenaline junkies of every stripe. Many of these 'thrills' can be found in locations that are unique to the area, such as those to be found at the Falls of Hills Creek Scenic Area of the Monongahela National Forest. This area comprises some 114 acres. However, its main attraction is a series of three waterfalls that cascade down a steep gorge.

The three falls can be reached via a trail that covers less than a mile, but which easily leads visitors to each fall in succession. The first section of the trail is paved and leads to a viewing platform overlooking the upper falls. This is the smallest of the falls, only falling about 25 feet. This section of the trail is wheelchair accessible and fairly level making for a gentle walk.

The remainder of the trail, leading to the middle and lower falls, consists of stairs, boardwalk like walkways and a metal stairway at the lower falls. This is a strenuous walk, and care must be taken as portions of the trail are slippery. I tried to count the number of steps along this section, and gave up when the count passed 200! The middle waterfall falls about 45 feet, while the lower waterfall falls about 63 feet. According to the Monongahela National Forest's website, this makes the lower waterfall one of the highest waterfalls in West Virginia. Although the lower waterfall falls the furthest, I found the middle waterfall to be the most spectacular of the three falls.

The trail that follows Hills Creek to the falls' various viewing platforms travels through dense woods that open onto fantastic views of the creek. Although most of the trail would be considered a strenuous walk, it is short and can be completed in under an hour. However, I recommend taking your time and enjoying your foray along Hills Creek.

A picture of Hills Creek framed by trees

A View of Hills Creek

Located just off the Highland Scenic Highway, hiking the Falls of Hills Creek trail provides travelers with a chance to stretch their legs and enjoy one of Pocahontas County's outstanding attractions. Visitors to the Falls should also plan on visiting the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area. Located just a few miles from the falls, the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area features a half-mile walk on a wheelchair accessible boardwalk through two natural bogs.

Links to information about the Falls of Hills Creek Scenic Area, the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, the Highland Scenic Highway and other attractions in the Monongahela National Forest can be found on the Forestry Services' Special Places Webpage.

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