LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Tecumseh Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Tecumseh Falls
Tecumseh Falls is a seasonal cascade tucked into the mixed hardwood forest of Holly River State Park in Webster County, West Virginia, along the Left Fork of the Holly River near the town of Hacker Valley. The falls are at their most dramatic after heavy rains and during spring runoff; in drier spells the flow can shrink to a thin ribbon. Photographers and day-hikers prize the quiet, wooded setting and the short approach that rewards you with a pleasant waterfall viewpoint without a long commitment. Nestled within Holly River State Park (SP) and managed by SDNR, the park is the second-largest in the West Virginia state park system at 8,294 acres and features over 42 miles of hiking trails, ten vacation cabins, an 88-unit campground, and numerous picnic and recreation areas. That network of trails and on-site facilities makes the falls a great option whether you’re stopping by on a day hike or using the park as a base for a longer outdoor weekend.
The Setting
Tecumseh Falls sits at 2,208 feet within Holly River State Park, fed by the Elk River, in the hills of West Virginia.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 1.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 200 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trail to Tecumseh Falls: 1.0-mile round-trip out-and-back with approximately 200 feet of elevation gain. Rated moderate. The path is a forest footpath through mixed hardwoods and can include uneven surfaces, exposed roots, and rocks; footing may be slippery after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The grade is generally moderate and the hike is suitable for most moderately fit hikers. Note that Tecumseh Falls is seasonal and is most impressive after heavy rainfall or during spring runoff.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Tecumseh Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Tecumseh Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Tecumseh Falls is in the spring or after significant rainfall, as the waterfall is seasonal and may not flow during dry periods.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should exercise caution on the trail, as it may be slippery after rain. Be aware of ticks and other wildlife. Always stay on marked trails and avoid getting too close to the edge of the falls.
Current Water Conditions
431 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 64 years of record
4.56 ft
Water depth at gauge
61°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 61 degrees F, good for a quick swim.
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 ELK RIVER BELOW WEBSTER SPRINGS, WV (15 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
431 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
422 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
565 cfs
5/10Thu
Low
729 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
656 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
633 cfs
4/10Sun
Low
701 cfs
4/10Best window: Tomorrow — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late February to mid April, 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 Pickens 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.
3-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 116 feet through Tecumseh Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 2,200 feet.
The ground changes about 33 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 83 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,200 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 116 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Tecumseh Falls is located within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Access is typically via hiking trails in the area, but specific directions to the falls may vary depending on trail conditions and water levels.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at designated trailheads within the New River Gorge National Park. Visitors should check local maps or park resources for the nearest parking area.
Elevation
2,208 feet above sea level
Coordinates
38.677513° N, -80.349740° W
Land Management
Managed by SDNR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check weather conditions before visiting to ensure the waterfall is flowing. Bring sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be uneven. Carry water and snacks, and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
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With 1.0 miles and 200 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Where to Stay
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Sutton Flatwoods
Bicentennial Inn
Luxor Inn & Suites, a Travelodge by Wyndham
Stonewall Resort
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
GERALD FREEMAN CAMPGROUND
10.6 miles away · 156 sites
Overview Gerald Freeman Camp is nestled in the headwaters of Sutton Lake in central West Virginia, 70 miles north of Charleston. The area provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, fishing and hiking.Recreation Anglers find plentiful bass, crappie, catfish and sunfish in the lake. The Elk River below Sutton Dam is well-known for its muskie and walleye fishing, and trout are stocked in the Downstream area. Fire roads and hunting trails in the surrounding lands
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the New River Gorge Bridge, Endless Wall Trail, and Sandstone Falls.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors may also encounter insects such as ticks and mosquitoes.
Cities near Tecumseh Falls
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