
Kates Falls
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
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Waterfalls are full after rain

Kates Falls
Best Time
Waterfalls are full after rain
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.
"The road gets very slim at times. Take your time encase someone else it coming from the other direction."

🚗 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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
Trailhead to Kates Falls
A roughly 5-mile roundtrip hike offering a peaceful immersion in nature, leading to the stunning Kates Falls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Road to Kates Falls
Trail Conditions and Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 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.
🗺️ Don't Trust GPS Blindly
Google Maps can be unreliable near Kates Falls. Pay attention to road signs and your surroundings.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
The trail can be uneven. Wear hiking boots or sturdy shoes for a safer and more comfortable experience.
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.
🐍 Watch for Snakes
Be aware of wildlife, especially snakes, on the trail. Wear sturdy shoes and stay alert.
🗺️ Don't Trust GPS Blindly
Google Maps can be unreliable near Kates Falls. Pay attention to road signs and your surroundings.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
The trail can be uneven. Wear hiking boots or sturdy shoes for a safer and more comfortable experience.
📸 Capture the Beauty
Kates Falls is a picturesque spot. Bring your camera to capture the scenic views and the waterfall.
What Travellers Say
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.
"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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Adventurous Drivers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey to Kates Falls: Road and Trail
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. The natural beauty of the Glade Creek trail, with its creek and surrounding forest, makes the hike an enjoyable part of the overall experience.
Experiencing Kates Falls: What to See and Capture
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. 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.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit