How do I access Kanawha Falls?

Kanawha Falls is a public boat ramp in West Virginia. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Kanawha Falls?

Kanawha Falls supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Kanawha Falls?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, fishing pier, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Kanawha Falls?

The best time to paddle at Kanawha Falls is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Kanawha Falls?

Water conditions at Kanawha Falls include mild current.

Is Kanawha Falls good for beginners?

Yes, Kanawha Falls is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

A bridge over a body of water with trees in the background

Photo by Jackson Atwood on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingFishing PierADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Kanawha Falls

Glen Ferris, WV · Boat Ramp · Public

Kanawha Falls is a public boat ramp on Kanawha River near Glen Ferris, West Virginia. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, fishing pier. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

Kanawha Falls offers river paddling on Kanawha River in West Virginia. Located near Glen Ferris.

Located in West Virginia, Kanawha Falls puts you on Kanawha River with room to explore upstream or downstream from the launch.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

Conditions here tend to be mild current, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and fishing pier and ada accessible.

At about 5 min from Glen Ferris, Kanawha Falls is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Glen Ferris area.

Paddling Tips

•Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
•River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
•Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
•Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Kanawha Falls?: Kanawha Falls is a public boat ramp in West Virginia. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Kanawha Falls?: Kanawha Falls supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Kanawha Falls?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, fishing pier, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Kanawha Falls?: The best time to paddle at Kanawha Falls is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Kanawha Falls?: Water conditions at Kanawha Falls include mild current.
Is Kanawha Falls good for beginners?: Yes, Kanawha Falls is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 38.1465, -81.2138