Hot (thermal) and cool springs are intermixed in western Virginia; in most cases, groundwater does not circulate deep enough or return to the surface fast enough to retain geothermal heat.

At Warm Springs, W. Va., the surface water percolates one mile below the surface. It flows down through the sedimentary rock layers until it reaches a resistant layer and is pushed upwards, emerging in a valley quickly enough to retain some of its geothermal heat acquired at depth. Cool groundwater closer to the surface may mix with warmer water from greater depth.

Limestone jointing enhanced by the processes of solution through rainwater, also known as limestone pavement.

Limestone karst pinnacles

cockpit karst

tower karst