The West Virginia Department of Tourism today announced that the West Virginia Waterfall Trail has surpassed 125,000 check-ins. Since its launch in 2022, this statewide trail has received visitor check-ins from all 50 states and 48 countries. To date, more than 14,000 prizes have been awarded to participants for their waterfall explorations.
Created in celebration of Almost Heaven’s natural beauty, the trail has expanded to include more than 40 falls throughout the Mountain State. From roadside wonders to rolling cascades reached after multi-mile treks, the trail features stops for travelers of all kinds.
“I continue to be amazed by the success of the West Virginia Waterfall Trail,” said West Virginia Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. “To have had travelers from all 50 states and 48 countries get off the beaten path and participate in this initiative is incredible. Exploring West Virginia’s stunning landscapes is the perfect way to leave the screens behind and reconnect with the ones you love most.”
As the first waterfall trail in the country, the West Virginia Waterfall Trail continues to receive national attention and has been recognized by top-tier publications such as Outside, National Geographic, and Southern Living. Cathedral Falls, Kanawha Falls and Blackwater Falls have remained some of the favorite falls among Waterfall Trail participants since the trail was launched.
How to Participate
Checking into the Waterfall Trail is a simple process made possible by Bandwango, a travel technology platform that makes checking in at each location quick and easy. To get started, visit WVtourism.com/waterfalls and register to have the West Virginia Waterfall Trail passport delivered straight to your smartphone. Those who have already registered and want to restart their adventures can text “resend waterfall trail passport” to 1-888-921-5333 to be connected with a support agent.
The West Virginia Department of Tourism rewards waterfall chasers with exclusive gear along the way:
- Check in at three or more waterfalls and receive a custom sticker.
- Check in at 10 or more waterfalls and receive an aluminum water bottle.
- Check in at 20 or more waterfalls and receive a waterfall wanderer T-shirt.
- Check in at all locations and receive a limited edition letterpress print.
