Day 4 - Sunday, May 24, 2026
Waterfalls & Grandview
Waterfalls
Cathedral Falls
Near the town of Gauley Bridge, Cane Creek drops 60 feet over a rocky ledge of shale and sandstone to form one of the highest waterfalls in West Virginia. Cathedral Falls is easily accessed and viewed from the road. A paved path to a bridge offers good views of the falls. A short dirt trail leads to a closer look. The short trail is not accessible and may be slippery. Use caution when walking closer to the base of the falls.
Directions:
From Kanawha Falls: Continue west on Highway 60 through the town of Gauley Bridge towards Ansted. In 2.7 miles there will be a small parking lot on the left marked for Cathedral Falls. Follow the short trail from the parking lot to reach a closer view of the falls.
From Canyon Rim Visitor Center: Take US-19 north. Exit to follow Highway 60 west through Ansted towards the town of Gauley Bridge. In 14.3 miles, there will be a small parking lot on the right marked for Cathedral Falls. Follow the short trail from the parking lot to reach a closer view of the falls.
Kanawha Falls
Kanawha Falls span the entire width of the Kanawha River. The Kanawha River is formed by the confluence of the New and Gauley Rivers near the town of Gauley Bridge. Approximately one mile downstream from the confluence, a sandstone ledge across the river forms the falls. At its highest point, Kanawha Falls drops fifteen feet. A low dam above the falls diverts water into a hydropower facility. The falls are enjoyable to see at any water level.
Directions:
From Canyon Rim Visitor Center: Take US-19 north 4.8 miles to the US-60 exit. Turn right to follow US-60 west towards Gauley Bridge for 17 miles passing through the town of Ansted and past Hawks Nest State Park. At the town of Gauley Bridge, continue another 0.75 miles to reach a dirt parking area on the left. The falls are visible from the road with no hiking required. Picnic tables are located nearby.
Grandview Area
Main Overlook
The Grandview Main Overlook is a breathtaking view down into the Gorge. Every season has it's own unique blend of colors with the surrounding vegetation as the perfect backdrop. The Overlook is about 1400 feet above the New River and during the late spring and summer, it is likely for visitors to catch a glimpse of white water rafters far below.
Bird lovers are drawn to this location because the openness that is available down through the tree line offers a unique look at the birds below and the amazing rock outcroppings.
Turkey Spur Overlook
The Grandview Main Overlook is a breathtaking view down into the Gorge. Every season has it's own unique blend of colors with the surrounding vegetation as the perfect backdrop. The Overlook is about 1400 feet above the New River and during the late spring and summer, it is likely for visitors to catch a glimpse of white water rafters far below.
Bird lovers are drawn to this location because the openness that is available down through the tree line offers a unique look at the birds below and the amazing rock outcroppings.
Bat Condo Flight
Bats will usually emerge from the condo approximately ½ hour before dark on most evenings from late spring to early fall.
Food Plan
Breakfast
Quiche
Lunch
Sandwich & Chips
Dinner
Pizza