High Falls Hike
High Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Monongahela, and at an altitude of over 2,800ft, one of the highest. The High Falls trail passes through old growth forest, and large hemlock as it winds through the saddle on Shavers Mountain. This is a beautiful hike in the backcountry of the Monongahela National Forest.From the parking pull-out on FR44/Beulah Rd, walk 75 yards to the blue blazed/diamond High Falls trailhead. Follow the High Falls Trail for 0.2 miles and cross West Fork over a wooden footbridge. In another 0.3 miles the High Falls trail will join the Allegheny trail at an old access road.
Cross the access road and pass through a large field, as the now blue/yellow blazed Allegheny/High Falls trail climbs Shaver Mountain. In 1.2 miles from the field, arrive at the saddle on Shaver Mountain and the only good campsite on the hike (no water). Just past the campsite arrive at the intersection where the Allegheny Trail splits left.
Stay straight, now going downhill on the blue blazed High Falls trail and reach a small abandoned service road in 0.2 miles. Important: Turn right as the blue blazed trail now follows the service road (SR), and DOES NOT cross it. Follow the blue blazed SR for another 0.2 miles where the High Falls trail turns left off the SR downhill.
Follow the blue blazed High Falls trail for 1.1 miles where the trail arrives at the railroad tracks. Important: DO NOT descend the burn on the other side of the railroad tracks. Turn right, the High Falls trail will now follow beside the railroad tracks the remaining 0.9 miles to High Falls. DO NOT walk in the center of the tracks, and pay extra attention for trains.
High Falls is a stopping point for a scenic rail tour, and it's possible that when you arrive at the depot hut, and High Falls, there are a group of people. If a scenic tour passes make sure to wave to the passengers, as they'll be wondering where you came from :)
At the small depot and High Falls, follow the trail as it heads to either the upper or lower viewpoint. High Falls is horseshoe shaped, and over 100ft wide, falling 20ft into a large pool below.
To return, retrace your route back over Shavers Mountain. Be extra cautious listening for trains on the return route, as they generally approach from the north at your back.
