Just when you thought you knew about all of Virginia's incredible waterfall hikes, we're here to bring you another one to add to the list. And the best news of all? It's short and sweet! Roaring Run Hoop Hole Trail is tucked away in the magical Jefferson National Forest and promises beautiful scenery along with an impressive falls.
Tucked away in the mountains of western Virginia awaits a trail that's relatively undiscovered. Roaring Run Hoop Hole is a hike that can be enjoyed by all skill levels.
Continue along the trail and you'll eventually arrive at a beautiful waterfall. It's here that you can stop and admire the view or even enjoy a picnic lunch.
Some areas of the falls are even available for swimming and splashing around. In some areas, this is strictly forbidden, so be sure to be mindful of any signage.
Roaring Run Hoop Hole Trail can be accessed from 450 Roaring Run Rd, Eagle Rock, VA 24085. Have you embarked on this trail before? What did you think? We'd love to hear from you! For related content, check out this Incredible Virginia Trail That Will Take You Past 6 Waterfalls.
Virginia has its collection of famous waterfalls: Falling Spring Falls, Crabtree Falls, Dark Hollow Falls, and many more. Yet few explorers know about an equally charming waterfall known as White Rock Falls. Like many of Virginia's lovely cascades, it's hiding in the woods and requires a hike. But as you'll quickly discover, the trek to get there is just as rewarding as the waterfall itself.
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White Rock Falls Loop is a 4.6-mile hike near Montebello, Virginia. It takes the average hiker about 2.5 hours to complete, with nearly 1,000 feet in elevation gain. There are two options for parking, both along the Blue Ridge Parkway: White Rock Gap Trail Parking or Slacks Overlook Parking. Most opt for the first, taking the loop counter-clockwise.
Jordan Eagle / AllTrails
If you choose this route, the first part of the trail will be a bit overgrown. Reviewers recommend wearing long pants and sturdy boots for the rocky terrain and sections of poison ivy you may encounter. This is especially true in the summertime.
And although the inclines can be tough, your efforts will be rewarded with some gorgeous mountain overlooks -- be sure to bring your camera with you!
Richard Cripe / AllTrails
Hikers also appreciate the variety of terrain; this truly feels like a classic Virginia hike with Blue Ridge Mountain Views, beautiful, ancient rock formations, hardwood forests, wildflowers, and perhaps a little wildlife, too.
Kyle Congleton / AllTrails
And the waterfall itself is just icing on the cake. The streamflow can vary greatly depending on rainfall, so keep in mind that it may not be as dramatic as other waterfalls in the region. It's easy to miss, too, so be sure to keep your eyes out for the wooded sign at the top of one of the trail's inclines that will lead you to the spur trail to the falls.
Alex Cherlin / AllTrails
For those willing to spend the better part of a morning or afternoon in nature, White Rock Falls Loop comes highly recommended. It's a popular trail, although it's relatively undiscovered so you'll likely encounter only a handful of fellow hikers.
There’s no doubt about it: the best way to enjoy Virginia’s gorgeous scenery is to get out there and experience it with your own eyes. Countless hiking trails throughout our state make this not only possible but wonderfully convenient and enjoyable. Today, we’ll introduce you to an especially magical trail located in Shenandoah National Park near Stanley, VA. And the best news of all? It’s just over a mile in length and is one of the best hikes in Virginia. See for yourself just how incredible Dark Hollow Falls in Virginia can be. Grab your hiking gear, download AllTrails, and let’s explore this unforgettable Virginia trail.
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Dark Hollow Falls is a beloved high-altitude hike nestled in the woods of Shenandoah National Park. It's an adventure that just about any outdoor enthusiast can appreciate.
The trail measures just 1.4 miles out and back, yet the terrain can be a bit challenging at times. The trail starts off easy enough because it is all downhill to the falls. Along the way, you will be treated to the tranquil trickle of a stream and be surrounded by beautiful forest.
The trail can be tricky coming up, especially when you consider all those stairs! Fortunately, you can take your time and appreciate the surrounding beauty and peaceful sounds of nature. The elevation gain is only a mere 564 feet, but in such a short distance this trail can give you a pretty good workout.
There is a viewing area near the top of the falls, but a helpful sign will guide you down the trail to the base of the falls. Take a quick look at the top, but the real view awaits you at the bottom.
This breathtaking waterfall isn't the biggest of its kind in Virginia, yet it's hard to deny its allure. The way the water cascades down in many different tiers makes it one of the most beautiful waterfalls in all of the state.
This is a very popular trail so it is likely that you will be sharing the view with many others. Pets are not allowed but bring the kids along. There is plenty of room at the base of the falls to find a smooth rock and your own piece of solitude.
Plus, you'll want to take a breather before the ascent back to the parking lot.
For important information about Dark Hollow Falls, you can visit the official National Parks Service website. Have you hiked the Dark Hollow Falls Trail in Virginia and experienced this gorgeous waterfall? Would you agree that this is one of the best hikes in the state? We'd love to hear all about it! Make sure to check out the whole hike in this incredible spot by watching this Adventuring in the Moment video.
