Virginia’s Scenic Waterfall Loop Will Take You to 9 Different Waterfalls

Who doesn't love a good road trip? I'll take nearly any excuse to hop in the car and explore the beautiful landscape that Virginia has to offer. If you agree with this sentiment, then you'll be excited by today's featured road trip: a waterfall road trip in Virginia. While the itinerary doesn't cover even half of the impressive waterfalls you'll find in our state, you can look forward to experiencing nine different falls, ranging from gentle cascades to rushing gorges.

The driving portion requires a little less than eight hours, not including potential hiking and viewing time. If you're interested in seeing all of the waterfalls on the route, be sure to plan ahead by booking a campsite or finding overnight accommodations. The waterfalls on this list range from ones just off the road to those that require a bit of hiking. Ready to start exploring? Check out this customizable Google Map and let's get started on an unforgettable Virginia waterfall loop!

1. Crabtree Falls

Our waterfall road trip in Virginia begins at Crabtree Falls, perhaps one of the most famous cascades in the state. To start with, it's the tallest series of cascading waterfalls east of the Mississippi River, falling 1,200 feet over 0.5 miles. Visitors can hike alongside the falls or admire a portion of the drop from the viewing platform, just steps away from the parking area. If you do want to hike the entire length of the waterfall, you'll need to do some serious stair-climbing, so please keep this in mind. It's also important to stay on the designated trail; wandering off the path near slippery rocks can be extremely dangerous.

2. Saint Mary's Waterfall

Saint Mary's Wilderness encompasses 10,000 acres within the George Washington National Forest. The hike to the namesake waterfall, Saint Mary's Falls, requires a 1.8-mile out-and-back trek along the creek. This is one hike you'll want your waterproof hiking boots for—there are more than a few stream crossings along the way. You won't be disappointed by the views along the way or by the final destination, a scenic 25-foot drop. Learn more about this beautiful waterfall hike in Virginia.

3. Statons Creek Falls

The next stop, Statons Creek Falls, requires no hiking at all. This lovely, zig-zag waterfall is located within the Pedlar District of George Washington National Forest. Eventually, this waterfall merges with the Pedlar River. You can admire the series of cascades and gorges right from the parking lot. In fact, that's the safest way to do so. If you follow the pathway down, a single misstep could be devastating. So while you may not get to experience the fullness of the waterfall from the designated parking area, it's beautiful nonetheless. If you're visiting with kids, be sure they can listen and stay close.

4. Panther Falls

If you're looking for a place to cool off at this point in the itinerary, you're in luck! Panther Falls is a beautiful waterfall that also doubles as a swimming hole. Located in Buena Vista, this popular summertime destination attracts visitors near and far for its ideal swimming conditions. Though some attempt to jump into the water from the rocks, this is not recommended. Instead, play it safe and wade into the pool to test water conditions and depth. Note that the trail to Panther Falls is approximately 0.4 miles in length. If you can, try to visit earlier in the day to avoid the crowds.

5. Blue Suck Falls

Blue Suck Falls is located in Douthat State Park and requires a six-mile round-trip hike to reach. The upside is that you'll be hiking through the Alleghany Mountains and enjoying some of the most beautiful scenery in the region. Blue Suck Falls drops approximately 50 feet with three distinct cascades. If there's been a drought, this waterfall can be virtually dry, so it's best to visit after a heavy rain. Overall, the trail is well-marked and easy to follow, but some portions—particularly the switchbacks—can be quite steep.

Bonus waterfall: the Douthat State Park dam. If you're not up for a few miles of hiking at Douthat, fret not. There's another waterfall option that doesn't require as much activity. While it's technically a dam, this river spillway is incredibly photogenic and will most certainly delight visitors of all ages.

6. Falling Spring Falls

Falling Spring Falls is undoubtedly the most dramatic waterfall in Virginia. Luckily, it can also be admired from the designated parking lot. Falling Spring Falls measures approximately 70 feet, although it was originally believed to be closer to 200 before being rerouted. It's hard to determine which is more beautiful: the waterfall itself or the backdrop of the Alleghany Mountains.

7. Roaring Run Falls

The name Roaring Run might be inspired by the sheer volume of water visitors notice amid noisy cataracts leading to the falls. The hike to Roaring Run Falls is one mile and involves a bit of climbing, though it is widely considered easy. Along the way, you'll experience a bit of Virginia's iron-forging history and a series of smaller falls.

8. Apple Orchard Falls

Apple Orchard Falls is a breathtaking destination accessible via the Blue Ridge Parkway near the Sunset Fields Overlook. The Apple Orchard Falls Trail is a 2.6-mile there-and-back trek that leads to an impressive, complex waterfall approximately 200 feet high. Let's just say you'll want to bring your camera for the endless photo ops along this scenic trail.

9. Hollins Mill Park

The dam at Hollins Mill Park is the final destination on our waterfall loop in Virginia. Although it isn't technically a waterfall, this historic attraction is certainly worth visiting. The park surrounding the dam offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including picnic areas where you can rest and reflect upon your waterfall adventures. Learn more about all there is to explore at Hollins Mill Park.

What To Know Before Taking This Virginia Waterfall Road Trip

These incredible Virginia waterfalls are meant to be admired, so don't feel that you need to rush through them all just to complete the loop. You can customize your itinerary and take it at your own pace. As mentioned before, it may be helpful to book a campsite in advance so you have a way to break up the drive. (One hidden-gem campground that I've always wanted to try is just a stone's throw from Crabtree Falls!) Timing is also important. If you want to experience the falls at their fullest, springtime is ideal, as it usually means there's been rain.

What are your thoughts on this unique Virginia waterfall road trip? Have you experienced any of the waterfalls on this itinerary before? If not, it may be time to share this article with a friend and plan a waterfall road trip!