West Virginia Wanderlust : Valley Falls

Park excursion number two takes us to Valley Falls State Park, one of my favorites. Growing up in Fairmont, I have gone to Valley Falls numerous times for group picnics, dates, an occasional wedding and generally when I'm feeling the need to connect to the outdoors. In baseball terms, this is my home park.

Located between Grafton and Fairmont, this park can easily be found off state road 310.

Coming into the park we find the place to get our stamp in a little mailbox at the entrance. The park does have staff but they are generally out and about during park hours. There are maps available here for those looking to hike and bike. The main entrance road leads to a parking lot, restrooms, playgrounds, vending machines, and several picnic shelters.

STAMP!!

The area that we all know as Valley Falls used to be home to a lumber and grist mill in the era where railroad was king. The railroad is still important to this park as it marks the entrance to the falls area.

Over the tracks we go! Also a popular spot for those senior pics.

The kid checking out a stone from the old grist mill (grinds grain).

One of my favorite things about this park is the rather easy walk out to the rocks where the falls cascade down the river. You can get very close and just listen to the water. Many of my parents generation will tell of time where swimming was allowed (don't do it! Its not allowed and is altogether dangerous) but sitting on the rocks watching the river tumble by is the perfect way to spend a lazy afternoon.

Another wild and wonderful view

The water was rather high due to several days of rain.

The kid and I

The park itself is truly a family friendly place, they have a ton of areas to picnic and and nice playground to let the kiddos burn some of that magic toddler energy.