Waterfall Hero Hikes: Indian Branch Falls (Pipestem)

Indian Branch Falls is a 45-foot waterfall on its namesake, a tributary of Bluestone River, in Mercer County. The waterfall is located in Pipestem Resort State Park.

Hike Length: 2.4 miles
Estimated Time: 1 to 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Pipestem Resort State Park
Trail Users: Hiking and biking
Dogs: Yes
Features: Waterfalls (1)
Crowds: Low
Warnings: The view from the overlook isn't great and there is no safe way to get down to a good view.
Trailhead GPS: 37.52484,-80.98874
Waterfall GPS: 37.52186,-81.00581

Directions:

From Beckley, head south on I-77 for about 27 miles to exit 14 for WV-20 and Athens. Turn left on Athens Road and go 2.8 miles and bear left on WV-20. In 9.3 miles, turn left into Pipestem Resort State Park. Go 1.6 miles and turn left to the parking area for the Nature Center.

Map:

Hike Description:

Walk towards the Nature Center and pick up County Line Trail behind the historical buildings. The trail descends steeply at first then levels off. There is an overlook with a poor view of the waterfall in 1.2 miles.

Especially in summer, the view from the overlook is poor and sheer cliffs prevent a safe climb down to the base. There are some scenic cascades just upstream of the falls.