About Smoke Hole Canyon Falls

Smoke Hole Canyon is one of West Virginia's most dramatic landscapes — a narrow gorge carved by the South Branch of the Potomac River through the Allegheny Mountains of Pendleton County. Hidden within this remote canyon is a series of cascades and one primary waterfall that drops into a deep clear pool in the river below.

Reaching the falls requires a demanding hike along the canyon rim and then a steep descent to the river. The effort is worth it. The canyon walls rise hundreds of feet on both sides, and the river below runs cold and clear. This is a true wilderness waterfall that demands respect and preparation.

Trail Highlights

• Remote canyon waterfall accessible only via a demanding backcountry hike
• Dramatic Smoke Hole Canyon geology with towering limestone walls
• Cold, clear South Branch Potomac River at the base
• Excellent fishing in the canyon pools (valid WV license required)
• Rarely visited — true wilderness solitude in Pendleton County

Trail Description

From the Smoke Hole Campground on WV-28, follow the canyon trail north along the South Branch. The trail alternates between the river floodplain and the canyon rim, with several steep pitches. The canyon walls grow more dramatic as you progress north.

At the 1.8-mile mark the trail descends sharply to a river-level section where the waterfall drops into a deep pool. The cold mist is a welcome relief in summer. The cliff walls here are streaked with minerals and draped in fern. Return via the same route — the climb back to the canyon rim is the hardest section of the day.

Tips & What to Bring

• This is a strenuous hike — save it for a day when you are well-rested and hydrated
• Bring a water filter; the river water is cold and clean but treat it before drinking
• Flash flooding can occur rapidly in the canyon — avoid after heavy rain upstream
• Navigation skills are needed; download a GPX track before heading out
• The canyon is bear country — store food properly and carry bear spray

Getting There

From Franklin, WV, take WV-28 North approximately 12 miles to the Smoke Hole Canyon area. The Smoke Hole Campground on the right provides trailhead access. GPS: 38.8200, -79.2900.