The Ultimate Bucket List For Anyone In Virginia Who Loves Waterfall Hikes
Here in Virginia, we boast nearly every outdoor attraction available on Earth, from glistening beaches to rugged mountains. Some of these attractions are easy to access, while others may take you on an unforgettable adventure through the forest. If you love the thrill of the chase, here’s the ultimate bucket list for anyone who loves a good waterfall hike. It’s a great resource to have if you’re looking up “waterfalls near me” in Virginia. So prepare to lace up those hiking boots and don’t forget to pack a picnic!
Crabtree Falls near Montebello is perhaps the most famous waterfall hike in all of Virginia. This towering cascade is the tallest of its kind east of the Mississippi River, and hikers can climb right alongside it via a trail marked by a staircase. The best part of all? Once you reach the top of the climb, you'll enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and landscape. These rocks are notoriously slippery and dangerous, so be sure to remain on the trail at all times. There's so much to enjoy when you visit Crabtree Falls in Virginia. Plus, there are plenty of places to stay the night nearby. Check out these cozy log cabins near Crabtree Falls.
This magical Appalachian Trail segment offers beautiful views of not just one, but two impressive falls. Both Upper Doyles Falls and Lower Doyles Falls are delightful discoveries within the Shenandoah National Forest. The loop measures about 3 miles in length, however, if hikers wish to continue onward to complete the 7-mile trek, they will discover yet another fall. Read our previous article about Doyles River Falls in Virginia for more information about this unique trail, including directions and details.
Located just outside of Great Falls National Park in McLean, Scott's Run Nature Reserve offers an exquisite 2-mile hike that nearly everyone can accomplish. The trail gently follows the Potomac River and passes by a modest yet scenic waterfall. Continue along the trail, and you'll end up at a gorgeous overlook of the river, which can make for the perfect picnic spot. A series of well-marked trails ensures that hikers can modify the length of their adventure. When it comes to peaceful waterfall trails in Virginia, you can't do much better than Scott's Run Nature Reserve.
Not far from Scott's Run Nature Reserve, Great Falls Park is a gorgeous natural area filled with all sorts of falls. Take the Great Falls Loop for an exquisite forested adventure. The trail passes by cascades and rapids, which offer the unbeatable sound of rushing water. This trail is an ideal introduction to this park if you've never visited before. For more information on this area, be sure to check out our previous article outlining this pristine hiking trail in Virginia.
Located just outside of Charlottesville, the North Fork Moormans Trail is a peaceful escape into nature. The trek measures just under 5 miles round trip and leads to a beautiful waterfall swimming hole. Along the way, you'll encounter a few stream crossings, so don't forget to wear sturdy shoes! You'll also want a bathing suit if you feel like taking a dip at the falls. Either way, you'll love this immersive nature experience. It's a dreamy waterfall trail in Virginia that everyone should experience at least once!
What are your thoughts on these 5 unique waterfall hiking trails through Virginia? Did any of your favorites miss the list? Be sure to let us know! The next time you’re looking for “waterfalls near me” in Virginia, we hope you’ll consider this list. If you love waterfalls, but don’t feel up for much of a hike, you’ll love learning about The Beautiful Virginia Waterfall With No Hiking Required.
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The OIYS Visitor Center
waterfalls near me
March 25, 2022
Beth C.
What are some of the most beautiful hikes in Virginia?
The article above outlines some of the most scenic waterfall hiking trails in Virginia, but there are countless other trails that belong on your itinerary. Hiking in Virginia is one of our absolute favorite pastimes, so we've scouted out our all-time favorite trails. At the top of the list is Old Rag Mountain Trail, a long trail that takes hikers on a challenging adventure to a gorgeous overlook. This scenic route is certainly not for beginners, as there are plenty of steep inclines and even a few rock scrambles. If you're prepared, though, you'll be rewarded with one of the most beautiful trails in the state. Next up on our list would be the Virginia Creeper Trail, although this trek is more suitable on a bike. Winding from Abingdon to Whitetop, this 34-mile trail offers some of the most gorgeous scenery Virginia has to offer: breathtaking countryside and beautiful mountains. Another gorgeous Virginia trail can be found near the beach at First Landing State Park. The Cape Henry Trail runs for 7.5 miles through wooded forests and even beaches. Of course, you don't have to complete the entire trail to appreciate its beauty. After you're done hiking, be sure to take a dip in the ocean! Learn more about some of Virginia's most beautiful hikes when you check out our previous article: 12 Trails In Virginia You Must Take If You Love The Outdoors.
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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.
