Situated in the heart of the Monongahela National Forest, the Falls of Hills Creek is one of those places that feels like a secret treasure. On my recent visit, I was reminded how powerful and peaceful nature can be when left untouched, and I couldn’t resist sharing the experience.
The Walk There
The trail begins with a short, accessible paved path that eases you into the forest. Within a few minutes, the sound of rushing water pulls you forward. The air feels cooler, the forest starts to become thicker, and before long you’re surrounded by moss-covered rocks and the kind of greenery that feels almost primitive.
The Three Falls
What makes this spot so special is that it’s not just one waterfall, it’s three, tumbling down a total of 220 feet.
- Upper Falls: The first stop is a gentle 25-foot drop, a perfect start. The water rushing gracefully over sandstone ledges, framed by lush ferns and rhododendrons.
- Middle Falls: Next comes the 45-foot cascade, where the force of the water picks up. Standing nearby, you can feel the mist on your face.
- Lower Falls: The grand finale is a dramatic 63-foot plunge into a shaded gorge. The hike down is steep, with a long staircase, but the reward is worth it. Looking up at the towering cliffs and the powerful flow, you can’t help but feel small in the best way possible.
The Hike Itself
The full trail is about 1.3 miles roundtrip, it is a short distance, but don’t let it fool you, the climb back up can be a workout. Stairs and railings make it manageable, and along the way there are plenty of overlooks for catching your breath and soaking in the scenery.
Why It’s Worth the Trip
What struck me most about the Falls of Hills Creek was the sense of solitude. It reminded me of parts of the Camino, and as I looked over the rocks and the open space by the waterfalls, I thought of a Chinese concept called ‘闭关修行 (bì guān xiū xíng),’ where one withdraws from the outside world and its distractions to focus on spiritual cultivation or disciplined training. Unlike more crowded hiking spots, this spot felt like it belonged to those willing to make the effort to see it. The combination of dense Appalachian forest, rushing water, and layered rock formations made it feel almost untouched by time.
If you’re ever in West Virginia and looking for a hike with easy accessibility with jaw-dropping natural beauty, I’d certainly put the Falls of Hills Creek at the top of your list. It’s the kind of place that offers a temporary escape from our daily life, where you can immerse yourself in the forest, waterfalls and appreciate what Mother Nature has to offer to all of us as children of this planet.
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