Bemis Area

Deep in the folds of West Virginia's Monongahela National Forest, the Bemis Area along Shavers Fork offers two of the region's most rewarding — and least crowded — natural swimming destinations. These are unofficial spots, raw and unhurried, where the river does what rivers have always done: carve stone, pool clear water, and invite the willing to wade in. No lifeguards, no concession stands, no crowds. Just you, the current, and the sound of water finding its way through ancient Appalachian forest.

The Setting and Landscape

Shavers Fork winds through a landscape shaped as much by logging and railroad history as by geology. The ghost of the old timber economy lingers here — in the quiet rail corridors, in the names of hollows, in the way the forest has grown back thick and green over old wounds. High Falls is the showpiece: a dramatic cascade that drops into a deep, swimmable pool framed by hemlocks and hardwoods. Mule Hollow is the secret — a secluded bend with a hidden overhang rock that shelters a quieter swimming spot, tucked away from even the most determined day-trippers. Both sites reward patience and a willingness to earn your swim.

What Swimming Here Feels Like

The water in Shavers Fork runs cold and clear, fed by mountain headwaters that don't warm quickly even in July. In spring, the cascades at High Falls thunder with snowmelt and runoff, filling the pool with frothy, energizing current — not for the faint of heart, but spectacular to witness. By summer, the flow mellows and the water temperature becomes genuinely refreshing rather than shocking, offering the kind of deep, clean dip that makes a long hike feel like the best decision you made all week. Autumn strips the trees and layers the banks in gold and crimson, making the pools feel almost meditative — fewer swimmers, more stillness, more light. The depth of the pool at High Falls makes it suitable for jumping, though as an unofficial site, you swim entirely at your own discretion and risk.

Practical

Directions to Bemis Area Swimming Holes (High Falls and Mule Hollow) High Falls Directions: By Car and Train: From Elkins, West Virginia, take Route 33 East to Alpena. In Alpena, turn right onto Route 27 South and follow it to Glady. From Glady, turn right onto Route 22 West and continue toward Bemis. In Bemis, look for the railroad tracks and the small railroad station along Route 22. This is a stop for the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad. The train ride from Bemis to High Falls is approximately 5 miles and takes about 20 minutes. Be sure to call the railroad at 1-877-686-7245 to confirm the schedule and request a stop at Bemis, as the train only stops if passengers are waiting. The round-trip fare is approximately $10, and the train typically allows a 45-minute layover at High Falls before returning. Note: The train can be busy with tourists, and facilities at High Falls are limited to picnic tables and pit toilets. By Hiking: From Glady, drive west on Route 22 toward Bemis. About halfway between Glady and Bemis, look for the West Fork Rail Trail on the left (south) side of the road. Park safely near the trailhead and begin your hike on the West Fork Rail Trail heading southwest. Follow the trail for approximately 5-6 miles. The trail runs alongside Shavers Fork River and the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad tracks. The trail leads directly to High Falls. Camping is permitted in the area, as it is part of the Monongahela National Forest. However, be aware that the area can become crowded when trains arrive. Mule Hollow Directions: From Elkins, take Route 33 East to Alpena. In Alpena, turn right onto Route 27 South and follow it to Glady. From Glady, turn right onto Route 22 West and continue toward Bemis. In Bemis, park near the railroad tracks. Walk south along the railroad tracks for approximately 1 mile (25-30 minutes). Be cautious of excursion trains that run several times a day. Always stay alert and step off the tracks when trains approach. After about a mile, look for a small, steep trail on the left with a tree stump at the top. This trail leads down to Mule Hollow. The trail is steep, so consider bringing a rope for assistance. Mule Hollow features a deep swimming hole in Shavers Fork River, with flat rocks for sunbathing and an overhang rock you can swim beneath. Additional Notes: Both High Falls and Mule Hollow are located in remote areas with limited facilities. Plan accordingly and bring any supplies you may need, such as water, snacks, and appropriate footwear. Parking is limited near trailheads and the Bemis railroad station, so arrive early to secure a spot. Always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of these locations. Coordinates for Reference: High Falls: Latitude 38.772, Longitude -79.778 Google Maps Link Mule Hollow: Latitude 38.7996, Longitude -79.7512 Google Maps Link

The Bemis Area is best approached from the nearby towns of Elkins, Glady, or Bemis itself. Elkins, the largest of the three, offers lodging, restaurants, and gear resupply before you head into the forest. Whether you're chasing the roar of spring cascades, the lazy warmth of a summer afternoon pool, or the quiet gold of a fall day on Shavers Fork, the Bemis Area rewards those willing to leave the pavement behind.

Access is unofficial. No fees are charged, but the train to High Falls has a fare. There are no restrooms, changing facilities, or trash services. Parking is extremely limited at trailheads and near the Bemis railroad station. The area is remote; cell service may be unreliable. Always yield to trains on the tracks.

Bemis Area reflects West Virginia's logging and railroad heritage, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial past and its transformation into a natural haven.

Follow Leave No Trace principles—pack out trash, respect wildlife, and minimize impact on fragile ecosystems.