A rainfall-dependent moderate hike with steep rocky switchbacks, not wheelchair accessible, in New River Gorge National Park.
No entrance fee (NPS)
Loading current conditions…
Based on this listing's approximate location — see the note on coordinates below.
Rainfall dependent — may not flow during dry periods (NPS).
Butcher Branch Falls is a rainfall-dependent waterfall in New River Gorge National Park, accessed via a 0.45-mile one-way hike from the Kaymoor Top Trailhead—totaling 0.9 miles round trip. The route combines 0.3 miles on Butcher Branch Trail with a 0.15-mile access trail and features steep rocky switchbacks that may be slick and hazardous in wet conditions.
The National Park Service explicitly rates this falls as “not accessible,” meaning it is unsuitable for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility. Dogs are allowed on-leash. Crucially, this falls depends on recent rainfall to flow; during dry periods it may not run at all, making a wet-season visit (winter or spring) advisable.
Check current conditions and recent rainfall before planning a trip, as the falls may be dry in summer or after extended dry spells. The difficult terrain and weather-dependent nature make this best suited for experienced hikers prepared for variable conditions.
Winter or spring when rainfall has been consistent; may not flow during dry periods.
NOT wheelchair accessible; steep rocky switchbacks may be slick when wet.
Avoid in dry weather; also not suitable for those with limited mobility due to steep rocky switchbacks that may be slick when wet.
No entrance fee (NPS)
Via a 0.9-mile round-trip trail rated moderate by the managing agency.
Yes, per the managing agency's own page — but check current leash rules before you go.
We track 8 waterfalls in New River Gorge.
There are 6 other waterfalls we track in Fayette County. All New River Gorge waterfalls →
nps.gov
NPS 'places' page, checked Sept 2026; no closure noted. NPS states falls reached via 0.3 mi on Butcher Branch Trail plus a 0.15 mi access trail (0.45 mi one-way from Kaymoor Top Trailhead); round-trip figure here is double that one-way distance. NPS: 'not accessible,' steep rocky switchbacks that may be slick when wet.
Checked September 2026.