Virginia is a state with a diverse landscape, featuring mountains, rivers, and coastlines.
This makes it a popular destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities.
Waterfalls are a popular attraction in Virginia and there are many to choose from.
Every year, thousands of people come from different parts of the world to check out some of the best waterfalls in Virginia.
So if you are planning to visit this city next, here are some of the must-visit waterfalls that you should include in your itinerary!
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How to get around Virginia
Like most of Virginia, one of the best ways to get around is to explore on your own by car!
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1. Falling Spring Falls
Falling Spring Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in the United States, and it’s easy to see why.
The waterfall is located in Virginia and is an easy hike from the nearby city of Covington.
The falls themselves are impressive, with a drop of more than 70 feet.
And the views from the top of the falls are simply breathtaking.
Visitors can see for miles in all directions, making Falling Spring Falls a great place to enjoy the outdoors without having to hike for hours.
2. Roaring Run Falls
Roaring Run Falls is another waterfall that you shouldn’t miss when in Craig County, Virginia.
The falls are located in a gorge and push through to Craig Creek below.
You will find two trails that lead to the waterfall.
You can follow one trail or go on a loop to explore both and then visit the fall.
The falls are crowded in the spring and summer when the weather is warm and the water is cool.
Visitors can swim in the pool at the base of the falls or hike to the top of the gorge for a better view.
3. Whiteoak Canyon Falls
Whiteoak Canyon Falls is a series of six waterfalls located along the famous Whiteoak Canyon Trail.
This scenic hike takes you through a gorge with each waterfall ranging in height from 35 to 86 feet.
As you make your way along the trail, you’ll have the opportunity to spot all six falls, as well as swimming holes at the bottom of each one.
The hike itself is just around 4.5 miles, making it the perfect length for a day trip.
Once you finish your trek, you can take a swim at one of the waterfalls.
The swimming holes at the bottom of each of the falls make it a popular spot for summertime recreation.
Visitors can also enjoy picnicking and camping in the area.
The Whiteoak Canyon Falls are a beautiful natural attraction that is well worth a visit.
4. Great Falls National Park
Great Falls National Park is a gem of a park in Virginia.
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Virginia.
The park is home to a number of waterfalls, including the Great Falls of the Potomac River.
The falls are located in Mather Gorge, and they can be reached by a short walk from the Visitor’s Center.
The falls are a popular spot for picnicking and hiking, and they offer stunning views of the Potomac River.
In addition to the falls, Great Falls National Park also offers a variety of other attractions, including a Visitor’s Center, Museum, and hiking trails.
The National Park spreads over an 800-acre space and has trailing tracks for hiking.
Make sure you collect a map at the entrance so that you don’t lose your way when you get to the top.
5. Lace Falls
Lace Falls is a 50-foot waterfall located in Natural Bridge State Park.
Though it may be upstaged by its nearby limestone natural bridge, the falls are still definitely worth a visit.
In addition to the falls, the state park features a gift shop, exhibits, a visitor center, and a Children’s Discovery Area.
Plus, you can take a look at the Monocan Indian Village by heading over to the Natural Bridge.
This is an ideal place if you want to see more tourists enjoying their day out in Virginia.
Apart from the gorgeous waterfall in Virginia, you will also find various hiking trails throughout the state park.
If you follow the Cedar Creek trail, you will eventually reach Lace Falls at its end.
The park has all the facilities that a family usually needs, so you shouldn’t worry about visiting Lace Falls with your entire family.
6. Cascade Falls
Jefferson National Forest is home to countless natural wonders, and Cascade Falls is certainly one of the most impressive.
This 66-foot waterfall can be reached via a 4-mile trail that winds through picturesque scenery before arriving at the falls.
You can choose different trails that lead to this waterfall, and each offers its own unique challenges and rewards.
Narrower, more twisting trails will provide a more immersive experience of the forest, while wider paths may be more suitable for those looking for an easier hike.
No matter which path you choose, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the falls as you make your way to this natural wonder.
So don your hiking shoes and prepare for an unforgettable adventure.
You will have to walk around 2 miles before reaching the waterfall but the journey is worth it once you reach your destination.
7. White Rock Falls
The White Rock Falls is a 2-mile hike off the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The falls were named for the quartz that was found there.
The best time to see the falls is in the spring when the water flow is at its peak.
When you reach the bottom of the falls, you can take a break and enjoy the scenery or continue upstream to explore more of White Rock Creek.
Slacks Overlook is the perfect starting point for your hike down the east side the heads to the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The rocky gorge along the small creek over millennia is simply breathtaking.
The towering ancient trees above will make you feel as if you are in a fairytale.
You create a sense of awe and wonder.
This is truly a trek straight out of a fairytale!
Make sure you bring your swimsuit if you want to dive into the 30-foot-deep waterfall.
8. Dark Hollow Falls
Shenandoah National Park is a must-visit tourist spot because of the Dark Hollow Falls.
Located in the Big Meadows Area of the Park, these falls are accessible via the Dark Hollow Falls Trail.
The 1.8 miles hike down to the falls is relatively easy, and the rewarding views make it well worth the effort.
At the end of the trail, hikers are greeted by a series of cascades that tumbles over moss-covered rocks.
The sound of the water crashing down is soothing, and the spray creates a refreshing mist on hot summer days.
With its lush vegetation and tranquil setting, Dark Hollow Falls is an oasis in the middle of nature.
Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a peaceful place to relax, Dark Hollow Falls is sure to please you.
9. Jones Hollow Falls and Devil’s Bathtub
Devil’s Fork Loop Trail is a seven-mile hike that culminates at Devil’s Bathtub, a smooth bowl cut that looks like a natural bathtub.
Visitors can expect to see beautiful scenery and wildlife, as well as experience a sense of adventure.
The trail is open year-round, but hikers should be aware that conditions can be challenging in winter months.
For those looking for a longer hike, there are several other trails in the area that offer different levels of difficulty.
Further along the trail, you will find Jones Hollow Falls.
The falls are off the beaten path, and you will find a pool once you reach the bottom.
The area is quite slippery and would be best if you don’t go swimming here.
Otherwise, you may end up injuring yourself. Instead, you can save your energy to swim in the Devil’s Bathtub.
The water is refreshing and invigorating, and the scenery is beautiful.
There are cliffs surrounding the pool, and the waterfall cascades down into the pool from a height of 45 feet.
10. Crabtree Falls
Crabtree Falls is another waterfall that you shouldn’t miss when in Virginia.
The falls are an impressive 1,200 feet, making them the tallest in the state.
Since it has five different cascades, you will find five viewing stations.
However, you will have to hike a little to reach your nearest station and get a view of the beautiful waterfall.
The views from the top are breathtaking, and it’s well worth the effort to get there.
It is best to start out in the morning.
That way, you can enjoy the cool waters at the end of your hike.
There are also several other attractions at the falls, including a picnic area and a playground.
So whether you want to go for a challenging hike or enjoy a peaceful day in nature, Crabtree Falls will not disappoint you.
11. Dismal Falls
Nestled in the mountains of Virginia, Dismal Falls is a hidden gem waiting for waterfall lovers.
Despite its unfortunate name, the falls are anything but dismal!
The cascading waters flow over a bed of moss-covered rocks, creating a serene and peaceful setting.
Visitors can take in the beauty of the falls from a variety of vantage points, including a scenic overlook and a hiking trail that winds its way through the forest.
With its picturesque setting and tranquil atmosphere, Dismal Falls is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Dismal Falls is an easily accessible waterfall located just a 5-minute walk from the parking area.
The waterfall itself is only 10 feet tall, but it is a full 50 feet wide – making it a spectacular sight. In hot weather, the pool at the base of the falls is the perfect place to cool off with a dip.
12. Overall Run Falls & Swimming Hole
The wait is finally over – it’s time to lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails!
Shenandoah National Park is calling your name, and this time you’re going all the way to Overall Run Falls.
This 7-mile hike is not for the faint of heart, but it’s definitely worth it when you reached the end and see the highest falls in the park.
And if that’s not enough to motivate you, just remember that there’s a swimming hole waiting for you around 2-miles from the falls.
13. Little Stony Creek Falls
The Little Stony National Recreation Trail is a beautiful, gentle hike located in the Jefferson National Forest.
The trail follows along Little Stony Creek, offering stunning views of the rushing water and rocky cliffs.
Along the way, hikers can also enjoy the Little Stony Creek Falls, which can be reached by following the trail.
The trail itself is built on a narrow gauge railroad bed in the 1900s for logging purposes.
Today, however, the trail is a popular destination for hikers looking to enjoy a leisurely walk in nature.
14. Panther Falls
Panther Falls is located along the same river as Statons.
It’s an interesting hiking trail that provides enough challenges even to experienced hikers.
The muddy and slippery path makes it slightly tricky to walk easily but the view at the end of the hike will blow your mind away.
Once you arrive at the falls, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful swimming destination that’s popular with locals and visitors alike.
Panther Falls is a great place to cool off on a hot day, and it’s also a popular spot for picnicking and relaxing in nature.
Many people say that there’s a secret underwater tunnel behind the falls.
You can explore if you want but make sure you take sufficient precautions.
15. Statons Creek Falls
Staton Creek Falls is a beautiful natural feature located just a short walk from the parking area.
The falls look as if the water is zig-zagging its way down into the multi-faceted rocks.
The falls are best seen after a rainshower when the water flow is at its strongest.
However, even during drier conditions, the falls provide a refreshing and cool oasis in the heat of the day.
Visitors to Staton Creek Falls can enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the nearby tables or take a hike on one of the many trails in the area.
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