virginia hiking trails with waterfalls

Virginia is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country. If you’re looking for a hike with a waterfall payoff, here are five of the best trails in the state⁚

Crabtree Falls Trail

Hike length⁚ 3 miles (one way)
Elevation gain⁚ 1,200 feet
Highlights⁚ Crabtree Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Virginia

The Crabtree Falls Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike that leads to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Virginia. The trail is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The waterfall is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking, so be sure to bring a swimsuit and some snacks.

Tips⁚
– The trail is steep in some sections, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes.
– The waterfall can be crowded on weekends, so try to visit during the week if possible.
– There is a fee to park at the trailhead.

Hike length⁚ 3 miles (one way)

This hike is a great option for those looking for a challenging but rewarding day hike. The trail is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The waterfall is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking, so be sure to bring a swimsuit and some snacks.

Tips⁚
– The trail is steep in some sections, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes.
– The waterfall can be crowded on weekends, so try to visit during the week if possible.
– There is a fee to park at the trailhead.

Elevation gain⁚ 1,200 feet

This hike is a great workout, but the stunning views of the waterfall make it all worthwhile. The trail is well-maintained and offers a variety of terrain, including forests, meadows, and rocky outcrops. The waterfall is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking, so be sure to bring a swimsuit and some snacks.

Tips⁚
– The trail is steep in some sections, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes.
– The waterfall can be crowded on weekends, so try to visit during the week if possible.
– There is a fee to park at the trailhead.

Highlights⁚ Crabtree Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Virginia

Crabtree Falls is a stunning 1,200-foot waterfall that cascades down a series of cliffs into a deep pool. The hike to the falls is challenging, but the views are well worth the effort. The trail follows a cascading stream through a dense forest, and there are several overlooks along the way where you can stop to enjoy the scenery.

Tips⁚
– The trail is steep in some sections, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes.
– The waterfall can be crowded on weekends, so try to visit during the week if possible.
– There is a fee to park at the trailhead.

Cascades Trail

The Cascades Trail is a beautiful 5-mile loop trail that follows a cascading stream through a dense forest. The trail is relatively easy, making it a good option for families with young children. Along the way, you’ll pass by several waterfalls, including the 20-foot Cascades Falls.

Tips⁚
– The trail can be muddy in wet weather, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear.
– The trail is popular with hikers and mountain bikers, so be aware of your surroundings.
– There is a fee to park at the trailhead.

Hike length⁚ 5 miles (loop)

The Cascades Trail is a 5-mile loop trail that follows a cascading stream through a dense forest. The trail is relatively easy, making it a good option for families with young children. Along the way, you’ll pass by several waterfalls, including the 20-foot Cascades Falls.

Tips⁚
– The trail can be muddy in wet weather, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear.
– The trail is popular with hikers and mountain bikers, so be aware of your surroundings.
– There is a fee to park at the trailhead.

Elevation gain⁚ 1,000 feet

The Cascades Trail climbs 1,000 feet over its 5-mile length, making it a moderately challenging hike. The trail is mostly uphill on the way to the waterfalls, but the descent is gradual, making it easier on the knees.

Tips⁚
– Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no water sources along the trail.
– The trail can be icy in winter, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear.
– Allow plenty of time to complete the hike, as it can take 3-4 hours.

Highlights⁚ Cascades Falls, a series of waterfalls that flow into a pool

Cascades Falls is a beautiful series of waterfalls that cascade into a pool at the base of the trail. The falls are surrounded by lush vegetation and towering trees, making it a picturesque spot for a picnic or a swim.

Tips⁚
– Be sure to bring a camera to capture the beauty of the falls.
– The pool at the base of the falls is a great place to cool off on a hot day.
– Be careful when walking around the falls, as the rocks can be slippery.

Whiteoak Canyon Trail

Hike length⁚ 4 miles (loop)
Elevation gain⁚ 1,000 feet
Highlights⁚ Several waterfalls, including Whiteoak Falls, a 75-foot waterfall

The Whiteoak Canyon Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike that leads to several beautiful waterfalls. The trail follows Whiteoak Creek, and you’ll cross several bridges and boardwalks along the way.

Tips⁚
– Be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be muddy and slippery.
– Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the hike is strenuous.
– Allow plenty of time to complete the hike, as it can take several hours.

Hike length⁚ 4 miles (loop)

This hike is a great option for those looking for a moderate challenge. The loop trail is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the surrounding forest and waterfalls. Along the way, you’ll cross several bridges and boardwalks, and you’ll have the opportunity to see a variety of plant and animal life.

Tips⁚
– Be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be muddy and slippery.
– Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the hike can take several hours to complete.
– Allow plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take breaks along the way.