Unlike many of the other waterfalls on the West Virginia Waterfall Trail, Pipestem Falls can be enjoyed without having to hike into the wilderness. It is along West Virgina Route 20, only miles from Pipestem Resort State Park.
A small roadside park offers visitors a safe place to appreciate the view. Parking is limited, though there is room for 4 or 5 cars in the designated pull-off along the highway.
It is a two-tiered waterfall on Pipestem Creek, which ultimately flows into the Bluestone River. The waterfall and creek are named after the native pipestem plant, Spiraea alba, which still grows abundantly in the region. Its hollowed-out stems were historically used to craft tobacco pipe stems.
After exploring two waterfalls at nearby Brush Creek Nature Preserve, I finished my road trip with this effortless cascade.
Pipestem Falls
The main 30-foot lower falls can be seen just steps from the parking area. Due to all the leaves on the trees in late July, I had a limited view of the full cascade.
With a storm approaching, I hastily climbed the wooden steps and walked a few yards to the upper falls – a series of cascades tucked away in the trees.
When to Visit
Like most Appalachian waterfalls, visibility and water volume are heavily influenced by seasonal factors.
- Visibility – As when I visited, summer months with dense foliage can obscure the view of the main drop. The view generally improves in late autumn and winter after the leaves have dropped.
- Water Levels – The waterfall is most impressive during periods of high flow, typically in early spring following the snowmelt or after significant rainfall.
I would not go out of my way to explore this waterfall, but if you are in the area, it is an extremely easy and quick visit.
Have you been to Pipestem Falls? Share your tips for visiting in the comments below!