West Virginia’s rough and rugged terrain makes it an ideal spot to conceal all sorts of natural wonders. Those of you who enjoy chasing waterfalls will find the Mountain State pure bliss to explore. While we’re all probably familiar with the more popular waterfalls like Blackwater Falls, some of our waterfalls are a little more concealed like secret surprises. Many have probably hiked the Kaymoor Miners Trail to get a glimpse of the abandoned mining town being reclaimed by the forest but did you know that this trail also leads to a hidden gem of a waterfall? Let’s check it out!
Kaymoor was a once-thriving coal camp that operated from 1899 to 1962 near Fayetteville. The abandoned town is now just abandoned ruins that lie deep in the New River Gorge.
AllTrails/Helena Fugitt
The hike to Kaymoor Bottom can be a little daunting. While the trail is short, at just 1.6 miles out-and-back — it is also steep.
AllTrails/John Leemann
You’ll need to descend a staircase of 821 steps to reach Kaymoor Bottom. And if you decide to go down… you’ll have to climb back up.
AllTrails/Jennifer Grooms
Once you reach the bottom, you can explore the abandoned mining town ruins. The lost town is quietly crumbling but you can check out the deserted buildings, mine entrances, equipment, and more.
AllTrails/Kim Kollmeyer
Many stick to the main trail and follow the signs through the ghost town. But if you explore some of the side trails there are secrets waiting to be uncovered.
AllTrails/Lindsay Bays
The New River Gorge is home to several lesser-known waterfalls and you can find one right here!
TripAdvisor/Madi Ball
Kaymoor Falls rushes down a steep, craggy rock face. During the spring and after heavy rainfall, the falls are quite spectacular.
AllTrails/Debbie Belcher
Hike the Kaymoor Miners Trail to explore the old mining town and stumble upon a secret waterfall. The 821-step staircase is well worth the journey when you find hidden beauty like this!
AllTrails/Kjrsten Ruch Learn more about the Kaymoor Miners Trail by visiting the National Park Service website.
Address: Address: Kaymoor Road, Fayetteville, WV 25850
AllTrails/Helena Fugitt
AllTrails/John Leemann
AllTrails/Jennifer Grooms
AllTrails/Kim Kollmeyer
AllTrails/Lindsay Bays
TripAdvisor/Madi Ball
AllTrails/Debbie Belcher
AllTrails/Kjrsten Ruch
Learn more about the Kaymoor Miners Trail by visiting the National Park Service website.
Do you have a favorite hidden waterfall in West Virginia? Tell us about it in the comments section below or in our West Virginia Nature Lovers Group on Facebook.
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