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South River Falls Trail, Shenandoah National Park

3.8
#6 of 7 in Trails in Shenandoah National Park
Hiking Trail · Hidden Gem · Nature / Park
South River Falls Trail is located in Shenandoah National Park. Plan to visit South River Falls Trail and other customer-reviewed, writer-recommended Shenandoah National Park attractions using our Shenandoah National Park road trip website.
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South River Falls Trail reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.0
35 reviews
Google
4.5
TripAdvisor
  • By paxa
    This is a relatively short trail - only 2.6 miles out and back if just going to the observation point. It's downhill all the way out and uphill all the way back - with a couple of switchbacks - so...  more »
  • By NJLivingston
    Short hike to an observation point. Falls are at a distance, but the stream that runs along part of the trail is nice. The hike back up is not bad.  more »
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Google
  • By Stephen Billeter
    Amazingly gorgeous. It is a kind of steep trail, so little kids might need to be helped. There are some rocks, so be careful if it rained recently because it gets really slippery. It's dog friendly, but make sure you leave no trace (clean up after them). Swimming in the falls is very fun. Even after the summer, it was still freezing. I highly recommend this trail.
  • By William Lieberman
    Great trail in Shenandoah National Park. Warning, this trail has a 900+ elevation change and it is ALL down hill to start. But, it is absolutely worth it for the payoff. The trail is well marked and follows the South River. At 1.3 miles down, there is a great observation area to view the falls. But, the best view is another .8 miles down to the bottom of the falls. The last quarter mile is over rocks and is quite narrow. But, it actually takes you right up to the base of the falls. Spectacular. Make sure to bring water and good hiking shoes or boots!
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