Elakala Falls, Four-tier waterfall system in Blackwater Falls State Park, West Virginia, US
Elakala Falls is a four-tier waterfall system in Blackwater Falls State Park, West Virginia, where water flows down through a narrow forested gorge carved in sandstone. Each tier drops over rocky ledges into a small pool before continuing to the next level below.
The stream cut through layers of soft sandstone over a long period, gradually shaping the steps and pools visible today. When Blackwater Falls State Park was established in the 1930s, the gorge came under protection and trails were laid out to give visitors access to each tier.
The name Elakala comes from a Native American word, and it appears on trail signs and park maps throughout the area. The gorge tends to draw visitors who prefer walking quietly through a forested ravine rather than staying near the main park facilities.
The first tier is only a few minutes' walk from the trailhead parking area on a mostly flat path, making it easy for most visitors. Reaching the lower tiers means descending on narrower, rockier trails, so sturdy footwear is a good idea.
The water runs a reddish-brown color from natural tannins released by hemlock and spruce needles decaying in the forest around the stream. The coloring deepens after rain, when the current is stronger and the hue becomes noticeably darker.
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