Niagara Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (2)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls in West Virginia is a compact, photogenic cascade tucked into the high woods of the Monongahela National Forest. Though much smaller than its famous New York namesake, the falls offer a peaceful spot for photography, a picnic, or a quiet pause on a longer forest ramble. The site lies on land managed by the U.S. Forest Service, making it an easy addition to a day of exploring the Monongahela's streams and hardwood ridges. The hike to Niagara Falls makes a satisfying half-day outing for many visitors. The signed out-and-back route totals 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and is commonly rated moderate, so it’s well suited to hikers looking for a bit of exercise without committing to a long backcountry trek. For overnight options, Paw Paw Tunnel Campsite is nearby — about 2.96 km from the falls — allowing for an extended stay in the forest.
The Setting
Niagara Falls sits at 653 feet along the Cacapon River, in the foothills of West Virginia.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
This route is an out-and-back totaling 2.4 miles with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The available USFS trail data for this location specify the length, elevation change, difficulty, and trail type (out-and-back); surface, grade, and technical class were not provided in the supplied data. The trail is typically done as a half-day hike and links conveniently with nearby camping at Paw Paw Tunnel Campsite (about 2.96 km away).
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Niagara Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Niagara Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically strongest after seasonal rains.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail may become muddy or inaccessible after heavy rain.
Current Water Conditions
238 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 102 years of record
1.97 ft
Water depth at gauge
64°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is a refreshing 64 degrees F, good for a quick swim. Expect excellent dissolved oxygen levels. PH is normal at 8.4 and mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen
ExcellentSupports aquatic life
pH
NormalWithin healthy range (6.5-8.5)
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge CACAPON RIVER NEAR GREAT CACAPON, WV (15 km away).
Today
Moderate
257 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
251 cfs
9/10Tue
Moderate
257 cfs
9/10Wed
Moderate
263 cfs
9/10Thu
Moderate
324 cfs
6/10Fri
Moderate
346 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
332 cfs
6/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late February to mid May, peaking in March.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Paw Paw hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 185 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 645 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 120 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 157 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing north, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 645 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 185 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Niagara Falls in West Virginia is located near the Highland Scenic Highway (Route 150) in the Monongahela National Forest. It can be accessed via a short drive from nearby towns such as Marlinton or Richwood.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but availability may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
653 feet above sea level
Coordinates
39.515649° N, -78.467233° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy after rain. Bring insect repellent during warmer months. Arrive early to secure parking, especially during weekends or peak seasons.
Where to Stay
Family cabin w hot tub & deck w bbq
Luxe 2 Bed Dome w Hot Tub Deck Fire Pit & Bath
Sleep Inn & Suites Cumberland
Secluded Oasis w Hot Tub, Screened-in Porch, WiFi!
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Paw Paw Tunnel Campsite
1.8 miles away · 10 sites
Overview The Paw Paw Tunnel Campground is located at Mile 156 on the C&O Canal Towpath on the Maryland side of the Potomac River, across from the town of Paw Paw in West Virginia. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.Facilities There are 10 single campsites, each has a picnic table, fire ring and grill. Each site can accommodate eight people. If there is a larger group, reserve two sites next to each other. Portable toilets are available. Hand pump water is available from April 15-November 1.Natura
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Paw Paw, West Virginia
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Berkeley Springs flows at 72 degrees Fahrenheit in the historic spa town of the same name in Morgan County, West Virginia, repr...
Swan Pond Spring
Swan Pond Spring emerges at 72°F from a low-elevation site at just 460 feet in Jefferson County, West Virginia. Located 66.9 me...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Paw Paw, West Virginia on SoakingSprings.
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Nearby Attractions
Highland Scenic Highway, Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, and Falls of Hills Creek.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors may also see wildflowers and other native plants.
Cities near Niagara Falls
Other waterfalls named Niagara Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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