While we've never met a waterfall in Virginia we didn't like, there's something to be said for seeking out Mother Nature's most awe-inspiring attractions. That's the motivation behind our newest road trip, an itinerary for exploring the tallest waterfalls in Virginia. If you can commit to spending an entire day (or possibly weekend) seeking out Virginia's most beautiful waterfalls, we can promise that you'll be impressed by every stop along the way. From Crabtree Falls — the tallest cascading waterfall on the East Coast — to hidden-away waterfalls in Shenandoah National Park, this road trip to explore the tallest waterfalls in Virginia is one you'll remember.
For the customizable Google Map, you can click here.
1. Cascade Falls
Our road trip itinerary for the tallest waterfall in Virginia begins at Cascade Falls. Cascade Falls can be reached via a 3.8-mile out-and-back trail. This scenic wooded adventure follows a meandering creek and eventually, the main attraction: a 66-foot waterfall cascading into a beautiful swimming hole. This trail is fairly popular, so don't be surprised to come across fellow hikers or even some swimmers as you reach the base of the falls.
2. Bent Mountain Falls
Bent Mountain Falls is the second-tallest waterfall in Virginia, measuring 200 feet in length. It's located in the Bottom Creek Gorge Preserve. The 3.7-mile loop trail offers beautiful views of the creek, lush meadows, and breathtaking hardwood forests. The overlook offers a stunning view of the waterfall, which tumbles into the Bottom Creek Gorge.
3. Apple Orchard Falls
Apple Orchard Falls Trail is a 2.9-mile out-and-back trail that features its namesake attraction, a 200-foot cascading waterfall. The high-elevation trail enjoys spectacular views at almost every turn. While some portions of the trail are strenuous, the majority of it is easy to complete. Don't forget your camera here!
4. Falling Spring Falls
Falling Spring Falls is understandably one of the most photographed waterfalls in Virginia. Located in the Alleghany Highlands, this waterfall measures an impressive 80 feet in height. Depending on the level of recent rainfall, this fall can either be a steady stream or a rushing gorge. Before the waterfall was "relocated" by mining operations, it's estimated that it once fell 200 feet. Imagine what a spectacle that must have been! Falling Spring Falls can be admired from the designated parking area and there's no hiking required.
5. Crabtree Falls
No list of the tallest waterfalls in Virginia is complete without Crabtree Falls. It's nearly impossible to capture the incredible immensity of Crabtree Falls in a photo. It holds the distinction as Virginia's tallest waterfall and the longest of its kind east of the Mississippi River. However, it's not a free-falling waterfall but rather a long series of cascades. There are 5 distinct drops along this 1,200-foot long cascade. The longest drop is 400 feet. Hikers can view the falls from the parking area, or follow the trail to climb to the top.
What are your thoughts on this road trip to the tallest waterfalls in Virginia? How many of these have you seen? We'd love to hear from you!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!