This Dazzling Frozen Waterfall Road Trip Through Virginia Is The Perfect Winter Outing
By Beth|Published February 01, 2019
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Beth
Author
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. 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.
Temperatures are plummeting here in Virginia and, according to the weather report, things won’t be warming up for awhile. And while it may be tempting to stay inside until spring, there are plenty of ways to make the most of the chilly season. In this spirit, we’ve mapped out some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state. And if you visit them this time of year, they’re bound to be frozen, which is a spectacle everyone should experience at least once. Without further ado, we bring you a dazzling frozen waterfall roadtrip through Virginia:
Above is the map of our frozen waterfall roadtrip. The drive takes roughly 5.5 hours to complete, not factoring in hiking. To view the interactive Google Map and add in your own stops, you can click here.
Jones Run Falls is located just outside of Waynesboro in Shenandoah National Park. This waterfall is a top destination in the warmer months. Yet should you brave the 4-mile trek in the winter, you'll be rewarded with a spectacular frozen waterfall. Framed by icicles and bare trees, this landmark is nothing short of breathtaking in the wintertime.
As the longest series of cascades east of the Mississippi River, Crabtree Falls is a bucket list destination any time of the year. However, few people have experienced this landmark in the dead of winter. While the waterfall may not be completely frozen through, you'll certainly enjoy portions of ice and a slower trickle where there's usually a constant rush of water. Needless to say, it's a magical experience. Note: it's important to be extra cautious should you visit Crabtree Falls in the wintertime and be sure to stay on the trail and be mindful of any closures.
Falling Spring Falls is the crown jewel of the Alleghany Highlands, and we think that's especially true in the wintertime. There's something about the bare trees and pale blue mountains that makes this 80-foot waterfall all the more beautiful. And on the coldest of days, you'll notice an accumulation of ice at the top and bottom of the waterfall. Just looking at these photos is enough to make you want to bundle up! This is the perfect waterfall destination if you're not interested in a hike, as you can admire it right from the road.
Last but certainly not least, we arrive to Cascade Falls. This natural attraction is positively enchanting in the winter. Marveling at the frozen waterfall, you truly get the impression that this waterfall has been frozen in its tracks. The trail measures 3.8 miles in total and takes a little over two hours to complete. Don't forget your camera!
What are your thoughts on this frozen waterfall road trip? Who would you go with? Be sure to share your thoughts with us! If the cold weather just isn’t for you, check out the warmer weather addition of this road trip, where we outline The Perfect Weekend Itinerary If You Love Exploring Virginia’s Waterfalls.
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