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
- 1
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.
- 2
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.
- 3
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
