Upper 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 Upper Falls
Upper Falls is a scenic waterfall located in West Virginia, known for its natural beauty and accessibility. It is part of the Kanawha River and offers picturesque views, especially during the spring and fall seasons when water flow and foliage are at their peak.
The Setting
Upper Falls sits at 577 feet along the Coal River, in the foothills of West Virginia.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Upper Falls is short and easy, making it accessible for most visitors. It follows a gentle path along the river, offering scenic views and opportunities to enjoy the surrounding nature.
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 Upper Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are the best times to visit due to higher water flow and vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, but the area may be busier.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the water as rocks can be slippery. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or flooding conditions.
Current Water Conditions
246 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 72 years of record
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge COAL RIVER AT TORNADO, WV (0 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
243 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Low
280 cfs
3/10Tue
Low
345 cfs
3/10Wed
Low
317 cfs
3/10Thu
Low
337 cfs
3/10Fri
Barely Flowing
285 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
265 cfs
5/10Best window: Fri — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late January 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 Tornado 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 measures about 22 feet of drop in the ground within a few hundred feet of Upper Falls. The ground at the falls is roughly 577 feet above sea level.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 577 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 22 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Upper Falls is located near the town of Tornado, West Virginia, along the Kanawha River. It can be accessed via Upper Falls Road, with clear signage leading to the area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the falls, which is free of charge. Availability may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
577 feet above sea level
Coordinates
38.342594° N, -81.841518° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds. Wear sturdy shoes as the area near the falls may be slippery. Bring a camera to capture the scenic views.
Where to Stay
Hampton Inn Charleston-Southridge
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Cross Lanes by IHG
Holiday Inn Express Winfield - Teays Valley by IHG
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Dunbar - Charleston
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.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Kanawha State Forest, Charleston, and other small waterfalls and hiking trails in the area.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, deer, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the trail.
Cities near Upper Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Upper Falls
27 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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