We planned a mornings hike here before driving to our next destination the New River Gorge. Sadly the weather did not cooperate but we were determined to hike so we donned our rain gear and headed off on the river trail. This half-mile trail was not a challenge but it was slippery. We only encountered one spot where we had to scramble and clamber.
It was quite a magical hike even though I am no fan of wet weather; preferring fair day hikes over rainy ones. Only bird sounds intruded and the woods were alive with greenery and early wildflowers. We looked for patches of blue sky hoping the rain would cease; the rain did change to a soft misty pour and by afternoon the skies cleared but by then. we were "on the road again."
We did not meet another soul on that hike until we headed back to the office area. There, we met a young man all dressed in his wedding finery. The wedding ceremony was to take place beneath the outdoor shelter. Fortunately the rain was light and perhaps they did manage to have a lovely wedding it was certainly a charmed setting.
Valley falls state park was once a thriving lumber and gristmill community. The nearby B&O railroad and coaling communities added to its fortunes. Remains of the old grist and sawmill are still visible; they are directly facing the river between the two waterfalls. You really have to use your imagination but it must have been a busy community. In the eighteen hundreds fire and floods wiped out the town. And in 1964 it was designated as a National Park.
I must admit to being blown away by the parks impressive white foaming cascades they are a stunning sight to behold. There are a series of falls that were created by the nearby Tygart Valley River, I certainly understand why that bride chose this spectacular setting. Spending time just listening to the waters roar would be my wish, and the neat thing about these falls is the fact you don’t have to hike in the see them.
The park has facilities for Picnicking, fishing, hiking and biking. There are eighteen miles of trails and also games courts. There is no overnight camping and the park closes at dusk.
We also found the drive into the park very enjoyable, the narrow serpentine road was well signposted and runs between high forest ablaze with pink and white dogwood. I am not sure that wide vehicles would be able to make some of the hairpin bends and this road is the parks only access. We certainly hope to return to this "scenic treasure" in the future.
To Get There.
Exit 137 from I –79 follow 310 south about 7 miles {Winding narrow}