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Cascade Falls

Ripplemead, Virginia

4.9/5
based on 15 reviews

Details

Distance

3.81 miles

Elevation Gain

732 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Elyse Clark

Cascade Falls is one of Virginia's most beautiful waterfalls and a great summer swimming hole! The trailhead has easy parking and accessible bathrooms. 

The 66' Cascade Falls located in Giles Count is arguably one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Virginia. This classic hike is 4.0 miles and gains 800' in elevation.

Located in Pembroke, Virginia, access the trail head by taking Cascade Drive (VA-623) off of US-460 and drive 3.3 miles to the parking lot. Hikers must register their vehicle and pay $3.00 to access the day use area. Once you park, walk towards the bathrooms to find the trail head. Within 0.2 miles you'll arrive at an intersection by a bridge. You can either choose to take the direct, steep route (Upper Trail), or the scenic trail (Lower Trail) to the falls. Both trails are the same length and the Lower Trail is the one that branches off to the right at this intersection.

If you take the Upper Trail, you'll come to an intersection around 1.6 miles. Take the trail to the right to go to the falls. After 2.0 miles you'll arrive at the falls, and there is ample room to spread out on the multiple benches and observation decks.

Enjoy feeling the cool mist blowing off the falls on a hot summer day. You can even bring your bathing suit for a brisk dip in the pool at the base of the falls. If you visit in the winter, chances are it might be frozen, but don't let that stop you from visiting-this waterfall is beautiful any day of the year.

To return to your car choose either the Upper Trail or Lower Trail and retrace your steps. Personally, I find that the best approach (especially for first time hikers of Cascade Falls) is to hike in on the Lower Trail and out on the Upper Trail; however, that decision is up to you.

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Food Nearby
Forest
Groups
Picnic Area
River
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildflowers
Wildlife
Swimming Hole

Cascade Falls Reviews

It's hard to say words about the Cascades. The hike to the falls is majestic. Following the river through the woods, with countless stopping points to enjoy the atmosphere, the Cascades is truly a great piece of art. You know you're getting close to the waterfall by the unmistakable crashing sound. Coming around the last corner to be greeted, continues to take my breath away, even after hiking it 7 times.

Well Worth The Hike! Beautiful scenery and nice people!

The reward to effort ratio is highly in favor of the reward part on this hike. It's an absolutely beautiful hike all along the Little Stony River. And as you come into your first view of the waterfall it doesn't disappoint. Totally dog friendly and kid friendly...done it with both. We usually hike in along the river/creek, and back out on the fire road.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike Barney's Wall

Bald Knob Trail

Hike the War Spur Loop

Hike to Wind Rock

Hike through the New River Cave

Fish Sinking Creek at Clover Hollow Queens Truss Bridge