Spend The Day Exploring Virginia’s Tallest Falls On This Wonderful Waterfall Road Trip
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 the state. 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 waterfall road trip in Virginia is one to remember.
For the customizable Google Map, you can click here.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
Address: Crabtree Falls, Massies Mill, VA 22976, USA
Address: Falling Spring Falls, Falling Spring, VA 24445, USA
Address: n37 91298 w80 83627, 7 10th Ave S, Shawsville, VA 24162, USA
Address: Blue Ridge Pkwy, Buchanan, VA 24066, USA
Address: 2068 Cascade Dr, Pembroke, VA 24136, USA
Virginia In Your Inbox
Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Alexandria. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
Love Virginia?
Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!
