The best part about road trips is the detours that let you pause for a moment and admire nature's beauty. But have you ever taken a trip where these natural attractions are the destination? This time, we're going on a quest for waterfalls. And Virginia has been blessed with many. For now, we've decided to focus on the mountainous and central portion of the state, although there are beautiful water features throughout Virginia. This route will allow you to drive and trek to eight of the best waterfalls in Virginia in a little over seven hours - a reasonable amount of time for the perfect weekend getaway.

What better way is there to get to know certain areas of Virginia than through incredible falls and cascades? And it just so happens that these waterfall sites are often part of a larger park system or area you'll want to explore. So if you've got the time and aren't afraid of a little splashing, your next adventure awaits you. This is your guide to the best waterfalls in Virginia!

Keep in mind that an interactive version of our map can be found on Google Maps.

A trip to the exquisite Lace Falls is made even more special because of its proximity to Natural Bridge itself. This area of natural wonder will be the perfect launching point or perhaps even the finale for your trip. It offers one of the most scenic hikes in Virginia, as well.

Roaring Run is part of an easy going 2-mile trail which passes over 5 foot bridges and has steps for the steepest areas. This one is fun for the whole family. The trail will begin near Eagle Rock, off of State Route 621, and results in a stunning waterfall view.

Blue Suck Falls can be found in Douthat State Park, which is considered one of the top ten parks in the country. You can spot these enchanting falls after a quick hike from the parking area (approximately 1.2 miles). There's nothing like a famed waterfall hike in Virginia, and Blue Suck Falls is bound to turn a few heads.

To capture the full experience of this 80 ft. waterfall, you'll want to hike the rugged path from the bottom. You'll see why Thomas Jefferson deemed this one of the most exquisite sites of natural beauty in all the land.

Cascade Falls is perhaps the loveliest area for waterfall viewing in the entire state. With pools of water and rugged cliffs, you'll understand why nearly 150,000 visitors make the trip to this waterfall hike in Virginia each year.

Tumbling into the Bottom Creek Gorge, Bent Mountain Falls is the second tallest waterfall in the state. The trail that leads you to this site is moderately difficult, but filled with maple, oak, and tulip poplar trees in addition to this impressive fall.

Located on the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, Fallingwater Cascades is accessible by a 1.6-mile loop. The Appalachian stream plummets from the mountain will be ample reward for a brief and beautiful hike.

Apple Orchard Falls is an impressive waterfall with multiple levels of beautiful cascades. This fall is also part of a trail system. The complete hike is roughly 5 miles, but the segment leading to the falls is a gentle path that meanders along with the stream.

The waterfalls in this region of the state are mesmerizing, tranquil, and picturesque. Take time to get to know each one and let us know what you think. We'd love to hear about your travels and your experience with the best waterfalls in Virginia.

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