11 Waterfall Hikes in the Roanoke Region

view of cascade waterfall

Looking for a fun hike this summer? Try taking a path that leads to one of the many waterfalls in the area.

These rewarding hikes end with some spectacular views (and a place to get your toes wet.) Some of these waterfall hikes include Bottoms Creek Gorge, Roaring Run (pictured), the Cascades and Apple Orchard Falls. Not sure which hike is for you?

Here’s the list (with route details):

  • Apple Orchard Falls is one of Virginia’s tallest and most spectacular waterfalls. Singing streams, dancing down cascades, huge boulders, and thick stands of forest surround stunning vistas and towering bluff lines. The 7.5-mile loop trail is moderately difficult.
  • Blue Suck Falls connects several of the trails in the northwest region of the park to the trail head near the visitor center at Douthat State Park. The falls and trail get their unusual name from the Appalachian term for a whirlpool or a “suck,” which may be found at the base of the falls.
  • Bottom Creek is a powerful mountain stream that forms a stair-step series of broad-basin waterfalls known as the “kettles.” One of the headwater streams of the South Fork of the Roanoke River, Bottom Creek boasts a 200-foot high waterfall.
  • Cascade Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls (69 feet) in Virginia and possibly on the entire East Coast.
  • Crabtree Falls is billed as the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi, and is a must see for anyone who lives in the mid-Atlantic region.
  • Dismal Falls is a 15-foot, multi-tiered waterfall on Dismal Creek. It is easily accessed from the road or from a side trail off of the Appalachian Trail.
  • Falling Spring Falls is a breathtaking 80-foot waterfall that is one of the most visited and photographed spots in the Alleghany Highlands.
  • Falls Ridge Preserve boasts a spring-fed travertine waterfall approximately 80 feet in height.
  • Fenwick Mines was once an old mining area and is now home to trails with water features and a recreation park.
  • Roaring Run is an excellent hiking trail for the whole family. The easy, well-marked trail begins at an historic iron furnace and winds back and forth along the Roaring Run stream. You will pass rock walls, cascading water, and cross five footbridges before ending at beautiful Roaring Run Falls.
  • Stiles Falls is a 40-foot waterfall located on Camp Alta Mons property. (Note that the trail is closed to the public while summer camp is in session.)

hiking trail near cascade waterfall

Think about your summer hike before leaving home and gather a few supplies.

  • Make sure to take plenty of water with you.
  • Pack a small snack and make sure you have somewhere to stow any trash.
  • Take your time; enjoy the scenery as you make it to your waterfall spot.
  • Check the forecast before you head out.
  • Prepare a small first aid kit for scrapes and cuts.
  • Wear supportive shoes, sunglasses, and a hat.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and be careful if you take photos to avoid trips and falls.