Big Run Falls

QUICK FACTS

  • Location: Near Douglas, WV (Tucker County)
  • Elevation: 3,095 feet
  • Coordinates: 39.107436, -79.568938 / (39°06’26.8″N 79°34’08.2″W)
  • Waterway: Big Run
  • Height: Around 15 feet

I was mesmerized the first time I stumbled onto Big Run Falls. It’s not the easiest to find, and I went on a hot day in June. This area is very desolate, as the only road to it is a rough graveled road – not suitable for a typical vehicle. I got out of my car and did a lot of walking. However, the waterfall is absolutely gorgeous and very unique the way the water beads down. There are also a couple of smaller waterfalls below it that are a couple of feet high that I have included in the interactive map. Bring plenty of water on this journey if you go in the summer, as you’ll want to stay cool being so desolate!

There’s a couple of ways to access this waterfall, but in my opinion, the easiest way is by driving northeast on US-219 east of Parsons. After about seven miles, turn right onto WV-18, which is a graveled road. However, the road is smooth here and my car was able to handle it with no issues. Drive up Route 18 about 0.4 miles and go left at a fork. If you stay straight, you’ll go to Olson Fire Tower, which is an awesome view, so check that out if you have time. After about a quarter to a half mile, you’ll see a sign that warns of rough road ahead. I parked here and walked down the gravel road from here. There’s a trail that leads down to the falls after about a mile of walking, and you’ll be able to faintly hear the falls from the ‘main’ road. This area is very rocky, so watch out for snakes!

Big Run Falls Location

There are a couple of smaller falls located under the main waterfall on Big Run, and I’ve included these in the interactive map. They are shown below. The amber color of the water is absolutely beautiful, and this is without a doubt one of my favorite places in the state.

Comments are closed.