These 19 Virginia Waterfalls Are Absolutely Breathtaking
By Anna Strock|Updated on January 22, 2023(Originally published January 12, 2023)
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Anna Strock
Author
Virginia staff writer for Only in Your State, freelance writer and journalist. Even though Anna has lived other places, somehow Virginia is where she always seems to land.
If you’re anything like us, you’re always excited for waterfall season and on the lookout for the best waterfalls in Virginia to explore in your area. Fortunately, we’ve done some research and have compiled a list of some of the most bucket list-worthy waterfalls in Virginia.
Whether they appear at the end of a long hike, decorate a park setting, or simply catch you by surprise on the roadside, there’s just something magical about a waterfall. You’ll agree that the following waterfalls in Virginia are no exception. You may be familiar with some of them and others may be a new discovery. Either way, these are 19 of the most beautiful we’ve seen and they’re all right here in our own backyard.
Editor's note: This waterfall is located on private property.
Abrams Falls can be found just northwest of Bristol, Virginia. So maybe these rushing falls aren't the ones you want to be standing under for your next romance scene, but they sure do make for a phenomenal view.
The only thing missing from Apple Orchard Falls is Gandalf. And some hobbits. And maybe an elf. But otherwise, these fairytale falls are as close to perfect as it gets. Learn more about this spectacular double waterfall in Virginia.
These falls are considered to be the highest east of the Mississippi and among the most beautiful in Virginia. The trail to Crabtree Falls is also one of our favorite hikes in Virginia. This magical stairway hike in Virginia is one you won't soon forget!
These awe-inspiring falls have an interesting history. Thomas Jefferson first wrote about them in the 1700s, recording that they were over 200' high. Today, they are 80' after being moved by a fertilizer company to mine fertilizer. But those 80' are still amazing to see and make for an impressive view even from the road. When it comes to incredible waterfalls in Virginia, Falling Spring Falls is a must.
5. "Little" Stony Creek Falls, Scott County
Little Stony Falls, Forest Rd 701, Dungannon, VA 24245, USA
The "Little" Falls big brother and the last of three Stoney Creek falls. When it comes to incredible waterfalls in Virginia, it's impressive to be sure.
7. Cabin Creek Trail Falls, Grayson Highlands State Park, Mouth of Wilson
Grayson Highlands State Park, 829 Grayson Highland Ln, Mouth of Wilson, VA 24363, USA
These segmented falls sit atop Whitetop Mountain at the end of a fairly easy hike along Cabin Creek. You'll quickly discover why Grayson Highlands State Park is one of the most beloved outdoor attractions in Virginia.
Not only are these falls breathtakingly beautiful, but they are located just off the Skyline Drive, making them accessible for almost everyone. Learn more about this short-and-sweet waterfall hike in Virginia.
Located just outside of Washington, D.C., Great Falls is an oasis in an urban desert. It's also one of our favorite sites in Virginia. After all, why visit just one waterfall when you can ogle dozens all at once?
Natural Bridge just can't get it wrong. Not only is the bridge one of the wonders of the world, waterfalls like this one add to the natural splendor. There's so much to explore when you visit Natural Bridge State Park in Virginia.
This beautiful waterfall is just one of many along the White Oak Canyon, and arguably one of the most beautiful. Plus, you can get to this waterfall via a beautiful 1-mile hike in Virginia. As one reader noted, you know it's a fantastic hike when there were so many waterfalls you can't remember which one was which!
12. Big Tumbling Creek Falls, Saltville
Big Tumbling Creek, 2387 Tumbling Creek Rd, Saltville, VA 24370, USA
Rushing down what looks like a giant set of stairs, the Tumbling Creek Falls are also a popular site for trout fishing. While you're in southwest Virginia, be sure to check out The Channels, another incredible natural wonder in Virginia.
Waterfalls, swimming holes, and beautiful hiking — look no further than the Cascades Trail in Pembroke. You'll see why it's also one of our favorite hikes and might just be the most beautiful waterfall in Virginia.
This little-known waterfalls may not be the tallest in Virginia, but its cascade into the aqua pool below is definitely striking! You'll find it near Crabtree Falls, but is on private property - so please only admire from a distance.
Talk about heavenly! Tell us that doesn't look tempting ... ! Even in the winter, this Virginia waterfall is worth checking out. (Although, we wouldn't recommend taking a dip in the cold!)
This pretty waterfall in the wilderness doesn't get much attention when it comes to the best waterfalls in Virginia...but it should! It's actually the highest waterfall in Shenandoah National Park, but because its flow is minimal except after a heavy rain, few people even know it exists or make the five-mile hike to enjoy it.
17. Little Mountain Falls at Fairy Stone State Park, Stuart
Fairy Stone State Park, 967 Fairystone Lake Dr, Stuart, VA 24171, USA
The 45-foot waterfall at Maymont is man-made, but it's just so beautiful. Set in the manicured beauty of the Japanese Gardens at Maymont Park, this waterfall belongs right where it is.
With a number of various-sized waterfalls along its path, including this beauty, the Rose River doesn't disappoint. Learn more about what makes Rose River Falls in Virginia such an extraordinary destination.
Waterfalls can be romantic, chaotic, loud, or peaceful – and sometimes they are all of these things at once. But no matter how big or small, there’s no denying their beauty! We would love to hear about some of your favorite Virginia waterfalls. Take a minute to let us know in the comments below. And when you’re ready to start waterfall-hopping around the state, we hope this list comes in handy!
Looking for more adventures in Virginia’s scenic outdoors? Any one of these charming small towns in Virginia would make the perfect basecamp!
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More to Explore
Waterfalls in Virginia & Related Info
Beth C. |July 22, 2022
What's the tallest waterfall in Virginia?
The title of the tallest waterfall in Virginia belongs to Crabtree Falls in Montebello. It's technically the tallest cascading series of waterfalls east of the Mississippi River and it's absolutely bucket-list-worthy. With five distinct drops, the waterfall measures an impressive 1,214 feet in height. While you're there, you can hike alongside the waterfall and even rent a cabin nearby for the ultimate outdoor getaway! Or, if you don't have time for a hike or overnight stay, you can admire a good portion of the waterfall not far from the parking lot before continuing on your way.
