It’s easy to spend all day long immersed in West Virginia’s natural beauty. But sometimes you only have a few hours to get your nature fix. This short waterfall trail is the perfect fit. At just 1/4 mile you’ll love this quick trip to one of the Mountain State’s incredible natural wonders.

Take a short 1/4-mile hike to enjoy the big reward of Brush Creek Falls in Athens. Bring your camera to capture this spectacular natural wonder in all of its glory.

Google Images/Jacob Mcdaniel

The trail to the falls is flat but slightly rocky. It was once a wagon trail serving the mills of the area from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s.

Google Images/Adrian Kimble

After a short walk, you’ll see the fenced overlook area. This is where you can catch your first view of the wonderful water display.

Google Images/Oliver Matheny

Brush Creek Falls span the width of Brush Creek. The main falls have a stunning drop of 25 feet, creating a magnificent cascade.

Google Images/Perry Harrison

The upper falls are a series of sandstone ledges that usher the water in its tumbling flow.

Google Images/Karen Tate

Brush Creek may begin its journey small in size but just prior to the falls, the creek swells to river size and the volume of water is astounding for most of the year.

Google Images/Bill Yancy

On rare occasions, the water flow slows and reveals the interesting rock formations normally hidden behind the curtain of water.

Google Images/Joyce Springer

During other times of the year, the water becomes fierce in its descent of the falls creating quite a whirlwind to watch.

Google Images/Scott Ash

This hike to Brush Creek Falls is short and sweet. You’ll even have time to enjoy a picnic while you’re visiting this magnificent West Virginian treasure.

Google Images/Charlie Bryant Brush Creek Preserve is open from 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily. Address: Brush Creek Road, Athens, WV, 24712

Have you ever hiked this short waterfall trail? What are some of your favorite falls to visit in the Mountain State? Let us know in the comments section below or share your photos of that best-loved spot in our West Virginia Nature Lovers Group on Facebook. Waterfall chasing can work up quite an appetite, check out this wonderful restaurant just steps away from one of our favorite falls.

Google Images/Jacob Mcdaniel

Google Images/Adrian Kimble

Google Images/Oliver Matheny

Google Images/Perry Harrison

Google Images/Karen Tate

Google Images/Bill Yancy

Google Images/Joyce Springer

Google Images/Scott Ash

Google Images/Charlie Bryant

Brush Creek Preserve is open from 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily. Address: Brush Creek Road, Athens, WV, 24712

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