Are you looking for the best hiking trails in Virginia with waterfalls? We have all that you need! Virginia is home to a diverse range of natural landscapes, from the rolling hills of the Piedmont to the majestic peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

One of the best ways to experience Virginia’s natural beauty is through hiking, and the state has no shortage of hiking trails to explore. For people who love the sight and sound of waterfalls, Virginia is especially rich, with numerous trails that lead to stunning cascades and plunging falls.

In this article, we’ll discuss eight hiking trails in Virginia that offer hikers the chance to see some of the state’s most beautiful waterfalls. From the highest vertical-drop waterfall east of the Mississippi to the tranquil pools at the base of cascading falls, these trails showcase the best of Virginia’s natural beauty.

Hiking trails in Virginia with waterfalls

1. Crabtree Falls Trail

Crabtree Falls Trail is one of Virginia’s most popular hiking routes, known for its spectacular waterfall and scenic views. The trail is located in Nelson County and features a 2.5-mile hike that leads hikers to the highest vertical-drop waterfall east of the Mississippi River.

The trail is well-maintained and offers hikers a range of difficulty levels, from easy stretches to more challenging terrain. The waterfall itself is a breathtaking sight, with a series of cascades that drop a total of 1,200 feet. Hikers can view the falls from multiple vantage points along the trail, including a lookout platform that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Crabtree Falls Trail is a nature lover’s paradise, with an abundance of flora and fauna to discover along the way. From wildflowers and ferns to salamanders and black bears, the trail offers a glimpse into the diverse ecosystem of the Virginia Mountains.

With its combination of natural beauty and well-maintained trails, it’s no wonder that Crabtree Falls Trail is a favorite among hikers in Virginia.

2. Whiteoak Canyon Trail

Whiteoak Canyon Trail is a popular hiking trail in Virginia, known for its six waterfalls and stunning views. Located in Shenandoah National Park, the 9-mile trail offers hikers the chance to see cascading falls, clear pools, and breathtaking mountain vistas. The trail is a moderate hike, with some rocky and steep sections, but the payoff is worth the effort.

Each waterfall on the trail offers a unique perspective and an opportunity to take in the surrounding natural beauty. From the 86-foot Upper Whiteoak Falls to the serene Lower Falls, each waterfall offers a different experience. The trail is also home to a variety of plant and animal life, including wildflowers, birds, and even black bears.

With its mix of stunning waterfalls, beautiful scenery, and moderate difficulty, it’s no wonder that Whiteoak Canyon Trail is a favorite among hikers in Virginia.

3. Dark Hollow Falls Trail

Dark Hollow Falls Trail is a great hiking destination in Virginia, located in Shenandoah National Park. The 1.4-mile trail is a moderate hike that leads hikers to a stunning 70-foot waterfall. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the tranquil sounds of the stream and observe the diverse flora and fauna of the park, including black bears, deer, and wildflowers.

The trail features rocky and steep sections, but the view of the waterfall at the end is well worth the effort. The waterfall itself is a stunning sight, with water cascading down the rocks and forming a deep pool at the bottom. The trail also offers multiple viewpoints for hikers to take in the scenery and capture the perfect photo.

4. Apple Orchard Falls Trail

Apple Orchard Falls Trail is a popular hiking destination in Virginia, located in Jefferson National Forest. The 7.5-mile trail is a challenging hike that offers hikers a variety of scenic views and natural features. The highlight of the trail is the 200-foot Apple Orchard Falls, which cascades down a series of rock formations and creates a picturesque scene.

The trail also features several other smaller waterfalls, streams, and wildflowers, making it a nature lover’s paradise. Hikers can choose to take the shorter 3.5-mile loop or continue on to the full 7.5-mile hike, which includes more difficult terrain and steeper inclines.

The trail can be challenging, but the payoff is well worth the effort, with stunning views and the chance to explore the beauty of Jefferson National Forest.

5. Jones Run Falls Trail

Jones Run Falls Trail is a great hiking destination in Virginia, located in Shenandoah National Park. The 4.7-mile trail is a moderate hike that leads hikers through a lush forest and past several smaller waterfalls before reaching the main attraction – the 42-feet Jones Run Falls. The waterfall is a stunning sight, with water cascading down a series of rocks into a deep pool at the bottom.

The trail is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and black bears, as well as a diverse range of plant life. Hikers can choose to take a dip in the refreshing waters of the pool at the base of the falls, making it a popular spot during the warmer months.

The trail is moderately challenging, with some steep sections and rocky terrain, but the stunning views and the chance to explore the natural beauty of Shenandoah National Park make it a favorite among hikers in Virginia.

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6. Falls Ridge Preserve Trail

Falls Ridge Preserve Trail is located in the New River Valley. The 3-mile trail is a moderate hike that leads hikers through a picturesque forest and past several small waterfalls before reaching the stunning 80-foot Falls Ridge Falls. The waterfall is a breathtaking sight, with water cascading down a series of rock formations into a deep pool at the bottom.

The trail is moderately challenging, with some steep sections and rocky terrain, but the stunning views and the chance to explore the natural beauty of the New River Valley make it a favorite among hikers in Virginia. The trailhead is easily accessible and there are picnic tables and benches available for hikers to rest and enjoy the scenery.

7. Cascade Falls Trail

Cascade Falls Trail is located in Giles County. The 4-mile trail is a moderate hike that leads hikers through a dense forest and past several smaller waterfalls before reaching the breathtaking 69-foot Cascade Falls. The waterfall is a stunning sight, with water cascading down a series of rocks into a deep pool at the bottom.

The trail is also home to a variety of wildlife, including occasional black bear. It is moderately challenging, with some steep sections and rocky terrain, but the stunning views and the chance to explore the natural beauty of Giles County make it a favorite among hikers in Virginia.

The trail can be busy during peak season, but the stunning views of the waterfall make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a scenic hike in Virginia.

8. Upper Doyles River Falls Trail

Upper Doyles River Falls Trail is a popular hiking destination in Virginia, located in Shenandoah National Park. The 3.4-mile trail is a moderate hike that leads hikers through a scenic forest and past several smaller waterfalls before reaching the stunning 28-foot Upper Doyles River Falls.

Hikers can choose to extend the hike to Lower Doyles River Falls, which adds another 3.3 miles to the trail. The trail is moderately challenging, with some steep sections and rocky terrain, but the stunning views and the chance to explore the natural beauty of Shenandoah National Park make it a favorite among hikers in Virginia.

Wrap Up

In conclusion, Virginia is a paradise for nature lovers, offering a variety of hiking trails with stunning waterfalls. From the popular Crabtree Falls Trail and Whiteoak Canyon Trail to the lesser-known Falls Ridge Preserve Trail and Jones Run Falls Trail, each of these hikes offers unique scenery and challenges.

These trails provide the perfect opportunity for hikers to immerse themselves in the beauty of Virginia’s natural landscapes, from the lush forests to the majestic waterfalls. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced hiker, there is a trail in Virginia that will meet your needs and leave you in awe of the state’s natural beauty.

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