12 Breathtaking Waterfalls You’ll Find in Virginia

Few things are as spectacular as waterfalls. Here in Virginia, you'll find them trickling down mountainsides, rushing into swimming pools, or in the most unexpected of places. No matter where you happen to find one, you'll agree that these natural wonders are equal parts enchanting and entrancing. That's why we've decided to put together a list of the best waterfalls in Virginia.

Whether you're searching for towering cascades, hidden gems, or easy waterfall hikes, the Old Dominion offers plenty of unforgettable natural wonders.

Tallest Waterfalls in Virginia

Did you know that the tallest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi is right here in Virginia? Or that there's a famous Virginia waterfall that impressed Thomas Jefferson? The tallest waterfalls in Virginia are listed below, and they are truly bucket-list-worthy.

1. Crabtree Falls – Virginia’s Tallest Waterfall on the Blue Ridge

• Location: Near Tyro, Virginia
• Popularity: Very busy, especially at peak times
• Need to Know:

A truly remarkable series of cascading waterfalls awaits at Crabtree Falls, which also holds the title of the tallest of its kind east of the Mississippi River. Equally special is the surrounding scenery; from the trail, you'll enjoy vistas of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. I've personally hiked this trail and can attest that it's quite breathtaking and very well maintained.

2. Apple Orchard Falls – A Scenic Blue Ridge Waterfall Hike

• Location: Jefferson National Forest
• Popularity: Very busy, especially at peak times
• Need To Know: Apple Orchard Falls can be accessed from mile 78 along the Blue Ridge Parkway

Apple Orchard Falls is one of those striking Virginia waterfalls that can only be described as graceful. The elegant cascades make their way down the rock ledges, creating the most mesmerizing sight and sound. Visit during the summer, and you'll enjoy the added benefit of wildflowers and wildlife along the trail to this waterfall. The hike to Apple Orchard Falls is roughly 2.9 miles round trip and is considered moderately challenging.

3. Bent Mountain Falls – A Quiet Hidden Waterfall Near Roanoke

• Location: Bent Mountain, Virginia
• Popularity: Rarely busy
• Need to Know: The trail is located within the Bottom Creek Gorge Preserve and requires about four miles of hiking with 650 feet in elevation gain

Bent Mountain Falls is the second-tallest waterfall in Virginia, measuring about 200 feet. Interestingly, those who have completed this trail note that the waterfall actually seems much taller, possibly over 350 feet. The waterfall forms when Camp Creek flows directly into Bottom Creek. The result is simply awe-inspiring.

Best Waterfall Hikes in Virginia

There are few things more rewarding than a hiking trail that leads to a waterfall. It offers you an enchanting place to stop, rest, and reflect. There are many visit-worthy trails in Virginia that lead to waterfalls, and here are some of our all-time favorites.

4. Little Stony Falls – A Multi-Tier Waterfall in a Rocky Gorge

• Location: Dungannon, Virginia
• Popularity: The trail can be busy during peak times
• Need to Know: Located within the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

Follow a stream peppered with unique rock formations to a cascading waterfall when you hike Little Stony Falls Trail. There are actually a handful of waterfalls visible along this 5.3-mile, out-and-back trail, each majestic in its own way.

5. Dark Hollow Falls – One of Shenandoah’s Most Popular Falls

• Location: Shenandoah National Park
• Popularity: Very busy at peak times
• Need to Know:

A short but steep hiking trail (1.6 miles round trip) leads you down to Dark Hollow Falls. You'll want to exercise caution on this trail, especially after a heavy rainfall. Upon seeing the rushing waterfall, you'll quickly understand why it's one of the most popular waterfall hikes in Shenandoah National Park.

6. White Rock Falls – A Peaceful Cascade With Mountain Views

• Location: Near Waynesboro, Virginia
• Popularity: Rarely crowded
• Need to Know: White Rock Falls can be accessed via a hiking trail that begins at milepost 18.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway

There are a few ways to get to White Rock Falls, either by an out-and-back trail (3.4 miles) or a loop (4.4 miles). The trail markers are yellow, and the path meanders along White Rock Creek for a portion of the hike. The trail requires a bit of a rock scramble before reaching the 30-foot waterfall.

Accessible Waterfalls in Virginia (Little to No Hiking Required)

Viewing Virginia's waterfalls is always a good idea, but sometimes, you might not be up for a hike. Below you'll find some of our favorite accessible waterfalls in Virginia that don't require any hiking.

7. Falling Spring Falls – A Stunning Roadside Waterfall View

• Location: Covington, Virginia
• Popularity: Very crowded at peak times
• Need to Know: Falling Spring Falls is visible from a designated viewing area along Route 220

Falling Spring Falls may very well be the most scenic waterfall in Virginia, and you can practically drive right up to the viewing area! It used to be possible to hike down to the base of the falls, but this is strictly prohibited. The trail is monitored to prevent this. Perhaps the best part of this stunning 80-foot waterfall is the view of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the background. The waterfall was famously admired by Thomas Jefferson, who once described it as one of the most remarkable natural sights he had ever seen.

8. Maymont Japanese Garden Waterfall – A Serene Waterfall in Richmond’s Maymont Park

• Location: Richmond, Virginia
• Popularity: Very busy at peak times
• Need to Know: This waterfall is wonderfully easy to access, offering visitors to Maymont the chance to pause and reflect

The manmade waterfall at Maymont is the crown jewel of the Japanese Garden. It was designed to evoke a sense of peacefulness, which can be enjoyed year-round. Maymont is a historic estate and public park in Richmond that features gardens, wildlife exhibits, and walking trails. The best part of all? Access to the waterfall and gardens is completely free, although donations are encouraged.

9. Mock's Mill Falls – A Historic Waterfall by an Old Mill Site

• Location: Damascus, Virginia
• Popularity: Not too busy; can become crowded on summer weekends
• Need to Know: Located next to the Damascus Old Mill Inn

The Mocks Mill Waterfall, located right next to the Old Mill Inn, is one of the main reasons guests travel to this unique destination. The waterfall is 200 feet wide and can be viewed - and heard - from many of the inn's rooms.

Best Waterfalls Near Washington, D.C.

If you find yourself in the nation's capital looking for an escape into nature, look no further! You'll be impressed by the sheer number of beautiful waterfalls near Washington DC.

10. Scott's Run Falls – A Hidden Waterfall Near Washington, DC

• Location: McLean, Virginia
• Popularity: Typically very busy at peak times
• Need to Know:

For a breathtaking waterfall close to Washington, DC, Scott's Run Falls is an excellent option. As you can imagine, this waterfall trail is incredibly popular, so it's best to visit during weekday mornings. The hike to get to the waterfall is about 3.3 miles in total.

11. Lower White Oak Canyon Falls – A Majestic Cascade in White Oak Canyon

• Location: Shenandoah National Park
• Popularity: Very busy at peak times
• Need to Know:

One of the most magical waterfall hikes in Shenandoah National Park, Lower White Oak Canyon Falls is easy to love. The trek is about three miles round trip with about 420 feet of elevation gain. Overall, however, the trail is considered moderately challenging and appropriate for all ages. Just don't forget your camera!

12. Great Falls – A Powerful Waterfall on the Potomac River

• Location: McLean, Virginia
• Popularity: Very busy, especially during peak times
• Need to Know: Due to its popularity, it's best to visit Great Falls Park during weekday mornings, especially during the spring and summer months

Last but not least, we arrive at Great Falls Park. The beautiful park spans 800 acres along the mighty Potomac River, offering visitors an impressive collection of rapids and waterfalls. Outdoor adventures abound here, and several trails lead to the falls.

How many of these waterfalls in Virginia have you experienced? Any we missed? Feel free to share your thoughts with us - we'd love to hear from you! And don't forget to check out our ultimate outdoor essentials packing list before embarking on your waterfall adventure.

When planning a waterfall road trip through the Blue Ridge Mountains, be sure to use the Only In Your State Itinerary Planner to map out your route and discover even more hidden waterfalls across Virginia.