LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Tenskwatawa Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Tenskwatawa Falls
Tenskwatawa Falls is a quiet, lesser-known cascade tucked into Holly River State Park in central West Virginia. Managed by the State Department of Natural Resources (SDNR) as part of the state park (SP), the falls sit amid mature hardwood forest and offer a peaceful setting for photographers and hikers seeking an off-the-beaten-path outing. Specific measurements for the fall’s height are not well-documented, which adds to its secluded appeal. The route winds through shaded woodland within the park and builds anticipation with the increasing sound of rushing water as you near the cascade. This makes Tenskwatawa Falls a satisfying half-day destination for hikers who enjoy forested scenery and quieter trails.
The Setting
Tenskwatawa Falls sits at 2,313 feet within Holly River State Park, in the hills of West Virginia.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The route runs through forested terrain in Holly River State Park (managed by SDNR) and is best treated as a natural, backcountry walk. Specific trail surface, grade, and class data (USFS-style metrics) are not provided for this route; hikers should be prepared for uneven footing, roots and rocks, and variable slopes typical of park trails. The distance and gain make it suitable for day hikers comfortable with moderate climbs—sturdy footwear and basic trail navigation are recommended.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil natural setting with a scenic waterfall surrounded by dense forest. The area may be remote, so it is advisable to plan ahead and bring necessary supplies.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Tenskwatawa Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Tenskwatawa Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is likely to be higher due to seasonal rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 46°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and uneven terrain on the trail. Cell phone reception may be limited, so inform someone of your plans before visiting.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Elk River, 9.1 miles away, not on Tenskwatawa Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
692 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 65 years of record
4.98 ft
Water depth at gauge
46°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 46 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
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
Strong
747 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Strong
678 cfs
10/10Tue
Strong
620 cfs
10/10Wed
Strong
747 cfs
10/10Thu
Strong
760 cfs
10/10Fri
Strong
798 cfs
10/10Sat
Strong
669 cfs
10/10Best window: Tomorrow — strong flow, partly sunny (trip score 10/10).
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.
Is Tenskwatawa Falls Frozen?
Updated about 17 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately strong flow slows freezing
Tenskwatawa Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 39°F to 34°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 858 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in West Virginia.
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.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 91 feet through Tenskwatawa Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 2,310 feet.
The ground changes about 16 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 32 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face west and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,310 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 91 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
The exact directions to Tenskwatawa Falls are not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local maps or guides for accurate navigation. The falls may be located within a forested area, requiring some hiking to access.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or informal parking options near the trailhead.
Elevation
2,313 feet above sea level
Coordinates
38.655127° N, -80.338182° W
Land Management
Managed by SDNR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear and bring a map or GPS device, as the trail may not be well-marked. Check weather conditions before visiting, as trails could become slippery or muddy after rain.
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.
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Nearby Attractions
West Virginia is home to numerous natural attractions, including other waterfalls, hiking trails, and state parks. Research nearby destinations to enhance your visit.
Wildlife
The area may be home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks and other insects.
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