QUICK FACTS
- Location: Near Hacker Valley, WV (Webster County)
- Elevation: 1,909 feet
- Coordinates: 38.635700, -80.320045 / (38°38’08.4″N 80°19’12.8″W)
- Waterway: Fall Run
- Height: Around 20 feet
I explored Holly River State Park on a low flow day in September. At times, the water from Upper Falls flows from both sides of this rock ledge, creating a beautiful scene. Many area photographers love this spot when the flow is strong for that very reason. I plan on checking this area back out in the winter to capture some ‘fuller’ photos, but nonetheless, the 20-feet-tall Upper Falls is a gorgeous spot for a nice break from hiking, or just to relax after a long day. It’s easy to get too thanks to a very nice boardwalk that takes you right down to the water.
Upper Falls is located within Holly River State Park. I took Route 3 right at the entrance of Holly River State Park on the Hacker Valley side, and drove about 4.2 miles out Route 3. Keep in mind, this road does turn to gravel, although I drove in a low-clearance sedan and didn’t have any issues. Then, you’ll see a gravel road on the right side of the road that drops down that has signs for Shupe’s Chute and the Upper Falls, among other things. Take that gravel road for a couple hundred feet, and parking will be there. Park there, and head out on the trail! Upper Falls will be on the left side, along with the steep ascent to Potato Knob, while Shupe’s Chute and several other waterfalls will be on the right side. When you take left, you’ll start on a boardwalk that takes you right down to the water!
Upper Falls Location
