Kate's Falls - Image 1
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Kates Falls

3.7
·3 reviews·, United States

Discover Kates Falls, a picturesque waterfall in WV's New River Gorge. Enjoy a scenic hike through nature, but be prepared for a challenging gravel ro...

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Waterfalls are full after rain

CrowdLow
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Kate's Falls - Image 1

Kates Falls

Best Time

Spring mornings

Waterfalls are full after rain

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Kates Falls, a picturesque waterfall in WV's New River Gorge. Enjoy a scenic hike through nature, but be prepared for a challenging gravel road approach.

3.7
(3 reviews)

"The road gets very slim at times. Take your time encase someone else it coming from the other direction."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Drive with Caution

The road to Kates Falls is narrow gravel. Take your time and be ready to back up for oncoming vehicles.

🐍 Watch for Snakes

Be aware of wildlife, especially snakes, on the trail. Wear sturdy shoes and stay alert.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kates Falls

Kates Falls

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

A beautiful, cascading waterfall reached via a scenic hike, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Glade Creek Trail

Glade Creek Trail

Trailhead to Kates Falls

A roughly 5-mile roundtrip hike offering a peaceful immersion in nature, leading to the stunning Kates Falls.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Road to Kates Falls

The journey to Kates Falls involves a gravel, single-lane road that can be challenging. Be prepared for narrow sections where you might need to back up if you encounter oncoming traffic. Always drive slowly and cautiously. Reddit

Trail Conditions and Wildlife

The hike to Kates Falls is approximately one mile, but be aware of potential wildlife, including snakes. Some visitors have reported seeing rattlesnakes, so wear sturdy footwear and stay alert. TikTok

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Waterfalls are full after rain
Crowd
Low
When
After heavy rain
Why
Witness the powerful cascade
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

No better way to celebrate WV Day and Summer solstice than a walk to Kates Falls in the beautiful New River Gorge National Park and Preserve 💛💙💛💙 #almostheaven #wildandwonderful #katesfalls #optoutside #getoutside #optoutdoors #waterfalls #almostheavenwv #wildandwonderfulwv #newrivergorgenationalparkandpreaerve #chasingwaterfalls #waterfallsfordays #waterfallhike #visitwv #wvtourism
tammyspencerrudd
39 likes • 242 views

🚗 Drive with Caution

The road to Kates Falls is narrow gravel. Take your time and be ready to back up for oncoming vehicles. Reddit

🐍 Watch for Snakes

Be aware of wildlife, especially snakes, on the trail. Wear sturdy shoes and stay alert. TikTok

Kate’s Falls WV #katesfallstrail #westvirgina #newrivergorgenationalpark
cornelisse74
25 likes • 350 views
Hiking ASMR on the Glade Creek trail, 5 miles or so to reach Kate's Falls. Watch out for snakes, this is where I seen my 1st rattle 🐍. #adventuretime #weekendwarrior #daytrips #hiking #trails #hikingadventures #wildandwonderful #hikingtrails #nationalpark #asmr #creek #bridge #westvirginia #almostheaven #womenwhohike #womenhikers
mda_hikes
5 likes • 142 views

🗺️ Don't Trust GPS Blindly

Google Maps can be unreliable near Kates Falls. Pay attention to road signs and your surroundings. Reddit

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed

The trail can be uneven. Wear hiking boots or sturdy shoes for a safer and more comfortable experience. TikTok

Kate's Falls in Raleigh County WV. Wonderful day to get out and enjoy the outside and find a new waterfall. #dthomasphoto #dthomasvideo #waterfall #reels #scenic #wterfallvideo #wvwaterfalls #scenic #wv #scenicwv #almostheaven #westvirginia #art #video #photographer #getoutside #travel #hiking #adventure
dthomasgallery
45 likes • 311 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Drive with Caution

The road to Kates Falls is narrow gravel. Take your time and be ready to back up for oncoming vehicles. Reddit

🐍 Watch for Snakes

Be aware of wildlife, especially snakes, on the trail. Wear sturdy shoes and stay alert. TikTok

🗺️ Don't Trust GPS Blindly

Google Maps can be unreliable near Kates Falls. Pay attention to road signs and your surroundings. Reddit

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed

The trail can be uneven. Wear hiking boots or sturdy shoes for a safer and more comfortable experience. TikTok

📸 Capture the Beauty

Kates Falls is a picturesque spot. Bring your camera to capture the scenic views and the waterfall. Instagram

What Travellers Say

3.7
(3 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Kates Falls offers a beautiful natural spectacle, with many visitors enjoying the scenic hike and the picturesque waterfall. However, the challenging, narrow gravel road access and potential for unreliable GPS navigation are significant drawbacks for some, leading to a mixed experience for those unprepared for the journey. Reddit

"I very much enjoyed this stop it’s about a mile ish hike from parking. I will note that the road to get there is gravel and a single lane. Take your time encase someone else it coming from the other direction. The road gets very slim at times. Otherwise.. be safe!"

Amanda Cornelisse

"This wasn't worth the drive. Kates Falls is on a dangerous winding goat path that's called a road. There are several places where if you meet a vehicle coming at you, one of you will have to back up a long ways to allow the other vehicle to pass.
Plus DON'T TRUST GOOGLE MAPS!!! We were in the middle of a bridge and Google maps said we had arrived at our destination because the trail was several hundred feet below us under the bridge.
The New River Gorge area is a beautiful place to explore, but Kates Falls isnt worth the hassle."

Jim Wright

""

Sherry Brooks

What People Like

Beautiful waterfall
Scenic hike
Peaceful nature

What People Dislike

Difficult road access
Unreliable GPS
Potential for snakes

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The primary access is via the Glade Creek Trailhead. Be aware that the road to the upper trailhead requires a 4x4 or high-clearance vehicle. The main road is gravel and single-lane, so drive cautiously and be prepared to yield. Reddit

No, the road is unpaved gravel and can be narrow and winding. It's recommended to have a vehicle with decent ground clearance, though many visitors manage with standard cars if they drive slowly. Reddit

It's advised not to rely solely on Google Maps. Some visitors have reported inaccurate directions, with the GPS sometimes indicating arrival while still on the road above the falls. Reddit

The road is described as a 'dangerous winding goat path' by some, emphasizing its narrowness and the need for careful driving. Be prepared for potential encounters with oncoming traffic. Reddit

Yes, there are different trailheads. The upper trailhead is often mentioned as requiring a 4x4, while others might be more accessible but involve a longer hike. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Kates Falls is located within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, which generally does not have entrance fees for most areas. However, always check the official NPS website for any updates or specific regulations. TikTok

As an outdoor natural attraction within a national park, Kates Falls is typically accessible year-round during daylight hours. There are no set operating hours, but it's best to visit during safe daylight conditions. Instagram

No, advance booking is not required for Kates Falls. It's a natural attraction that you can visit on a first-come, first-served basis. Instagram

The hike to Kates Falls is about a mile, but the trail can be uneven. The road access can also be challenging. It's best suited for those comfortable with moderate hiking and navigating rougher terrain. Reddit

Information on specific facilities like restrooms or picnic areas directly at Kates Falls is limited. It's advisable to come prepared with your own water and snacks, and to use facilities at nearby park areas if needed. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The hike from the parking area to Kates Falls is approximately one mile. It's a relatively short hike, but the terrain can be uneven. Reddit

You can expect a beautiful waterfall cascading down rocks, surrounded by the natural beauty of the New River Gorge area. It's a great spot for enjoying nature and taking photos. Instagram

Absolutely! Kates Falls is a very photogenic location, especially after rain when the water flow is strong. The surrounding natural landscape also offers great photo opportunities. Instagram

Wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots with good traction, as the trail can be uneven. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, and consider bringing insect repellent. TikTok

Yes, visitors should be aware of potential wildlife like snakes. The trail can be slippery, especially after rain, and the road access requires careful driving. TikTokReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Kates Falls with children can be a fun adventure, but requires some preparation. The one-mile hike is manageable for most kids, but the trail's uneven terrain means sturdy shoes are a must for everyone. TikTok Parents should keep a close eye on children due to the natural environment, including potential wildlife like snakes. TikTok The drive to the falls can be slow and winding, so ensure children are comfortable with car rides on gravel roads. Reddit Pack plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited. The reward of seeing the waterfall can be very exciting for younger visitors. Instagram

🚗 Adventurous Drivers

For those who enjoy a bit of off-road driving, the route to Kates Falls offers a unique challenge. The gravel, single-lane road demands attention and careful maneuvering. Reddit Be prepared for narrow passages and the possibility of needing to back up. This isn't a typical paved road experience, so if you have a vehicle with higher clearance, it might offer a bit more comfort, but it's not strictly necessary if you drive cautiously. Reddit Embrace the journey as part of the adventure! TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Journey to Kates Falls: Road and Trail

Reaching Kates Falls involves a two-part adventure: the drive and the hike. The road leading to the trailhead is a significant point of discussion among visitors. It's described as a narrow, gravel, single-lane road that requires careful navigation. Drivers need to be prepared to stop and potentially back up if they encounter oncoming traffic, as passing can be difficult. Some reviewers have called it a 'dangerous winding goat path,' highlighting the need for patience and a cautious approach. Reddit It's also worth noting that while some sources mention an 'upper trailhead' requiring a 4x4, standard vehicles can often access the area if driven slowly and carefully. Reddit

The hike itself is generally considered a moderate, approximately one-mile trek from the parking area to the falls. The trail is natural and can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is highly recommended. Visitors should be mindful of their surroundings, as the area is home to wildlife, including snakes. TikTok The natural beauty of the Glade Creek trail, with its creek and surrounding forest, makes the hike an enjoyable part of the overall experience. TikTok

Experiencing Kates Falls: What to See and Capture

Kates Falls is a natural cascade that offers a rewarding sight for those who make the journey. The waterfall itself is a beautiful feature, particularly impressive after periods of heavy rain when the water flow is at its peak. Instagram The surrounding environment of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve adds to the scenic appeal, providing a tranquil natural setting. It's a popular spot for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. TikTok

For photographers and videographers, Kates Falls presents a wonderful opportunity. The dynamic nature of the waterfall, combined with the lush greenery, makes for compelling shots. Many visitors share their experiences and visuals on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, showcasing the falls from various angles. TikTokInstagram Whether you're looking for a peaceful moment by the water or aiming to capture stunning natural imagery, Kates Falls offers a picturesque backdrop. Remember to bring your camera and be prepared for the natural elements. Instagram

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