South River Falls
What to Expect
Safety Advisory
The rocks near the base of the falls are perpetually wet and slick with algae — wear shoes with real tread and resist the urge to scramble closer to the cascade for a photo.
The stream crossing can go from a casual rock-hop to a shin-deep wade after heavy rain; check recent precipitation before heading out and bring trekking poles if storms passed through in the last 48 hours.
Trail Details
Pro Tips
Hike the loop counterclockwise to get the steeper descent out of the way while your legs are fresh and save the more gradual climb for the return — your knees will thank you.
The observation point gives you the classic photo, but if you continue down the spur trail to the base of the falls, you get a completely different perspective and the sound alone is worth the extra effort.
Arrive before 9 AM on weekends between May and October — the South River Picnic Grounds lot is small and fills fast, and unlike some Shenandoah trailheads there is no overflow parking nearby.
Photos
NPS
