QUICK FACTS
- Location: Gauley Bridge, WV (Fayette County)
- Elevation: 736 feet
- Coordinates: 38.154206, -81.179275 / (38°09’15.1″N 81°10’45.4″W)
- Waterway: Cane Branch
- Height: About 60 feet
If there was a popularity contest among waterfalls in West Virginia, I’d imagine it would be between Blackwater Falls, Lower Falls of Hills Creek, and Cathedral Falls. Located on Cane Fork, a tributary of the New River, this waterfall elegantly flows 60 feet vertically and into a nice shallow pool at the bottom. There are multiple angles to capture this waterfall, so take your time and enjoy it! I have always heard rumors that another nice waterfall lies above this waterfall on Cane Fork, but I have not explored it yet.
To access Cathedral Falls, head off Exit 96 (Belle) of the West Virginia and drive east on US-60 for 33.9 miles. There are a multitude of waterfalls along Route 60, and the first one begins right before you come across Kanawha Falls. Anyway, you will drive through the town of Gauley Bridge, and go across a set of railroad tracks on Route 60. You’ll see a pull-off with plenty of parking and you should be able to easily see the waterfall. If you start up Gauley Mountain, you have driven too far. If you’re looking for an extra challenge, climb up the steep trail that takes you to about 2/3 the height of the waterfall. But be warned, it is steep and it is slick!
Cathedral Falls Location
