One of the best waterfall hikes in Virginia is the Cascade Falls Trail.
The 4.4-mile trail leads you past some of the most gorgeous scenery (including beautiful rhododendron tunnels and the cascades of Little Stony Creek) to a 69-foot-tall waterfall where you can swim (with caution). And it’s dog-friendly!
This is a must-do trail in the Jefferson National Forest near Blacksburg, Virginia.
If you are thinking about hiking to Cascade Falls in Virginia (and I think you should), the guide below has everything you need to know. So, let’s start planning your next adventure!
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The Most Beautiful Trail in Virginia?
Okay, I haven’t hiked every single trail in Virginia, but I would still bet that this trail is at least in the top 5 most beautiful hikes in the state. It is absolutely GORGEOUS! At least, if you were walking with me, you would have heard me say that at least a thousand times before we even hit the falls. Ask my family!
Between the stone trails, the access to the creek, the occasional rhododendron tunnel, and the overall vibe (as my teenager would say), it’s a fantastic trail. The 69-foot-tall waterfall is just the cherry on top! I would hands down recommend this one to anyone within a two-hour drive of the trail.
It reminded me a bit of the beauty of Buttermilk Falls in New York and Shades of Death in Pennsylvania. But this was even better.
Two Trails to the Falls
You have a few options when it comes to getting to Cascade Falls: the Lower Trail and the Upper Trail.
The Lower Trail is more exciting than the Upper Trail. You get close to Little Stony Creek multiple places, allowing you to enjoy the sights and sounds of the running water. We even stopped for a minute to skip some stones.
However, the Lower Trail is also more technical, featuring rocky trails and numerous stone steps. There are several bridges along the trail, including two crossings of the Little Stony Creek.
The Upper Trail is generally wider, with fewer rocks and stones along its route. It’s not an accessible trail, but we saw someone had brought their stroller on the trail (and parked it at the top). When you reach the top of the Upper Trail, you will have to take the stairs down to the falls. It is a little steep in sections, with grades up to 15%.
Prepare For Your Hike Along Cascade Falls Trail
Parking
There is a large parking lot at Cascade Falls. We visited over Independence Day weekend and, amazingly, had no issues finding a parking space at 10:00 am.
However, after reading reviews, it seems like it can fill up pretty quickly, especially when the VA Tech students are on campus. One review I read said they waited 45 minutes to park the car!
Entry Fee
There is a daily fee of three dollars to the park at Cascade Falls. There is a machine that accepts credit cards only at the entrance. Pay there and put the receipt in your front window.
Amenities
There are bathrooms with running water at Cascade Falls. Many recent reviews commented that the bathrooms were dirty. We did not go in, so I cannot attest to their condition.
There are several picnic tables next to the parking lot and also a water fountain.
Pets
Leashed dogs are allowed on the trail at Cascade Falls.
Cellular Service
We had limited cell service at Cascade Falls. It was intermittent, and there was no service at all at the actual falls.
Be Safe!
The rocks around the waterfall are all very slippery, so it’s good to wear water shoes that have some grip to them. As always, be careful when swimming near waterfalls. If it rained recently, the water current might be very strong and difficult to swim against.
If you are visiting in the winter, you’ll want to wear ice spikes or crampons, as several rocks along the trail can be icy or slippery after a snowfall.
Be a Responsible Visitor
Remember to respect nature as you visit this park. Stay on established paths, pack out your trash (including food waste), and leave what you find behind.
As these destinations become increasingly popular, it is essential that we remain diligent in keeping our parks and lands clean and safe for all. You can learn more here.
Hike to Cascade Falls Waterfall in Virginia
| Trail Location: | Cascade Drive in Pembroke, VA. |
| Trail Length: | 4.4 miles |
| Trail Difficulty: | Moderate |
| Trail Type: | Loop |
| Elevation Gain: | 750 feet |
| Dog Friendly: | Yes |
Trailhead
The trailhead to the falls is at the back end of the parking lot near the bathrooms. There is a large sign with information about the area and a map of the trails. This trailhead will give you access to both the Upper and Lower Trails.
Lower Or Upper Trail?
About 2/10 mile along the route, you’ll encounter a split in the trail. If you go straight, you’ll follow the Upper Trail. If you go right and cross the bridge, you’ll follow the Lower Trail.
We took the trail counter-clockwise, following the Lower Trail to the falls and then returning via the Upper Trail and I honestly think this is the best way to do the hike. I wouldn’t want to walk up the Upper Trail, as it’s not very exciting and involves climbing over 700 feet in elevation gain.
The Old Boiler
A short while after crossing the bridge, you’ll come across the Old Boiler – a remnant from the sawmill that was once on the property. Apparently, it was too heavy to move, so they left it.
Along the Trail
I keep repeating myself, but this is probably the most beautiful trail in the state of Virginia.
Between the stone work, the creek flowing beside you, the bridge crossings, and the numerous rhododendrons (they were in bloom in early July!), there was always something gorgeous to look at along the way.
After crossing the second bridge, you have the option to connect with the Upper Trail. This is the only place where the trails “meet” in the middle. We chose to stay on the Lower Trail since it was so scenic.
At the Falls
You’ll hear the falls before you see them! But as you get closer, you can glimpse the waterfall (and the crowd) through the trees. Follow the path a little more, and then you’ll be right there.
Once you’ve reached Cascade Falls, there is a large pool at the base of the waterfall where you can swim. The water in early July was very cold! I’m not sure if it ever warms up.
We carefully crossed over to a shallow part of Little Stony Creek, where there was some dry area, and set up there. Other people were utilizing the rocks around the perimeter. There is enough space to spread out.
As noted above, be careful when walking around the water. It can be very slippery. Some fatal accidents have occurred.
Waterfall Overlook
There is a short boardwalk trail that leads close to the waterfall. We walked over there before continuing to the Upper Trail.
Returning to the Parking Lot
You can return to the parking area using either trail. They are about the same length. We chose to use the Upper Trail to return since it was a relatively easy straight shot back down. Though you’ll have to climb stairs up to reach it.
Optional Trail Extension
You can lengthen the hike to almost 8 miles by hiking to Barney’s Wall. Instead of going left at the top of the stairs towards the Upper Trail, make a right and follow the Yellow Blazed trail to a beautiful overlook of the New River Valley towards Blacksburg.
Another Fun Hike Nearby
Another fun trail in Pembroke, Virginia, is the short and steep trail to Bald Knob at the Mountain Lake Lodge. You might recognize the resort from the movie Dirty Dancing! We took the trail to the overlook for a sunset hike. It was a great way to end the day.
Watch the Full Hike
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