Meadow Creek Falls: Hiding in Plain Sight

Searching for waterfalls in the New River Gorge, I’ve scoured mountainsides, bushwhacked rough trails, and scrambled over steep slopes to find them. Yet to my surprise, I’ve learned that some of the loveliest waterfalls in southern West Virginia are hiding in plain sight.

Meadow Creek Falls, also known as Claypool Falls, are a good example. They’re right off a hardtop road and no more than four miles from an interstate highway. Yet, they remain “off the radar” so to speak for most visitors to the Gorge. 

To find this not so elusive waterfall, take I-64 to the National Park Service Sandstone Visitor Center at Exit 139 (GPS: Lat. 37.78320, Long. -80.89778). Then take the road to the town of Meadow Creek, which is a little less than three miles from the visitor center. When you reach a junction in town with a sharp left turn, bear straight ahead onto Claypool Road. Claypool Road is a hardtop road that runs along Meadow Creek all the way to the Town of Meadow Bridge. About a mile and a half up Claypool Road, look for a wide spot in the road to your left and the falls on your right (GPS: Lat 37.8236, Long -80.9061). 

Meadow Creek Falls

The falls can be appreciated from the road, but for a closer look, there’s a trail down to creek level. It’s short, rocky, and steep, and I admit not for everyone. But if you’re sure-footed, it’s worth the scramble down. This is one truly beautiful waterfall. It spans the creek with about a 20-foot drop that is very photogenic. The falls present a multitude of camera angles and fascinating foreground. Flat, rock ledges are convenient for exploring the creek side, setting up a tripod, or just sitting and admiring the view.

Meadow Creek Falls

A little upstream from the main falls, there are small, but picturesque drops as well. This is truly a waterfall for all seasons. Having a large watershed, the creek maintains good flow year round. If you’re looking for some new places to explore in the New River Gorge, why not try Meadow Creek Falls? 

Upstream from Falls

Meadow Creek Falls