10 Of The Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Virginia

When you think of waterfalls, your mind may instantly go to places such as Niagara Falls or Angel Falls in Venezuela. While some states like Virginia may not be known for their waterfalls, you may be happily surprised to find out that there are still many beautiful ones throughout the state. At A-Z Animals, we’ve got the scoop on the best waterfalls to see while visiting Virginia. 

Let’s look at the 10 most incredible waterfalls in Virginia that you’ll definitely want to check out as soon as possible!

1. Devil’s Bathtub

The Devil’s Bathtub is a lovely pool of water at the base of a little waterfall. The Devil’s Fork Loop trail is the path you take to get to the waterfall. It winds through a forest and crosses multiple creeks. The pool water can be pretty icy, but it’s well worth a dip if you dare to plunge in. Take the time out to come here on a weekday, as the weekends can get pretty packed. 

2. Great Falls

Getting in touch with nature is easy at Great Falls Park, only 15 minutes from downtown Washington, D.C. Here, the Potomac River rushes through Mather Gorge, where jagged rocks line the path. Aside from seeing the waterfall, the park it is located in is around 800 acres in size and has other fantastic hiking routes.

3. Dark Hollow Falls

This stunning waterfall in Virginia is located off Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park. Because of its beautiful environment, it is a favorite walk among residents. The trail follows the creek until it reaches a 70-foot-high tiered waterfall. It’s the ideal spot for lunch following your gorgeous hike to the waterfall.

4. Crabtree Falls

This is Virginia’s tallest waterfall and one of the tallest east of the Mississippi. It lowers 1,200 feet in total over a half-mile. One portion includes a 500-foot-long waterfall that drops straight down. The Crabtree Falls trail, which follows Crabtree Creek, will lead you to the falls. 

5. Cascade Falls

The Cascade Falls Trailhead, which leads you to the waterfall, provides everything you need for a fantastic hike. Despite being quite short and not too difficult, it features magnificent scenery, well-maintained paths, a beautiful pooled waterfall, and a large picnic area. There are two linking trails, one upper and one lower. The lower trail is slightly longer but easier. 

6. Falls Ridge Preserve

Falls Ridge Preserve has an 80-foot waterfall, cascades, caverns, and travertine cliffs. The waterfall is one of the world’s largest exposed travertine deposits. Travertine is a type of tan-colored limestone created by mineral deposits. You’ll cross bridges and view undercut rock formations that appear like caverns on your way to the falls. 

7. Stiles Falls

Stiles Falls route is a lovely trail that leads to a stunning 40-foot waterfall hidden in verdant woodland. Enjoy your stroll through the woods, crossing Purgatory Creek before arriving at the falls. If you’re planning to visit, you will have to park at the front of the Camp Alta Mons property and walk along the gravel road to the white-blazed trailhead. While the area is privately owned, it is open to the public for hiking except when they’re having their summer camps.

8. Rose River Falls

This lovely Rose River Falls trail follows the Rose River almost the entire way to the falls, providing stunning views and soothing sounds to accompany your stroll. Interestingly enough, the Rose River does not transport much water, especially in the summer. The lower falls are unique in that all of the water is channeled into a narrow slot in the rock. 

9. Falls of Dismal

The name Dismal Falls (or Falls of Dismal) comes from its source, Dismal Creek. Dismal Creek’s Falls of Dismal is a 10-foot multi-tiered cascade. It’s easy to get to from the road or a side trail off the Appalachian Trail. The Falls area is part of a 400 million-year-old sandstone deposit. Dismal Creek is a trout-stocked stream. You’ll be dazzled by this amazing Virginia waterfall that will instantly captivate you. 

10. Statons Creek Falls

This Virginia waterfall is easily accessible, yet it is one of the state’s lesser-known. With gorgeous drives, climbs, and more waterfalls nearby, this may be just the beginning of a full day of exploration in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Hiking is not required to see this waterfall because the summit is near a small parking area along CR-633. Be prepared to be dazzled by this waterfall while being able to enjoy seclusion, thanks to many not knowing about its existence. 

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