The out-and-back Jones Run Trail is one of the easier waterfall hikes in Shenandoah making it a good starter hike if you are unsure about your hiking abilities.
Along the 1.8-mile (3.6-mile return) trail are two pretty waterfalls and a cascade. The trail gradient is gentle.
The Great Virginia Waterfall Trail
The Falls of Jones Run are in Section 10 of the Great Virginia Waterfall Trail which travels the 127 miles of Shenandoah National Park.
Directions
You have two options to see the Falls of Jones Run. I park in the Jones Run parking area and prefer the out-and-back because I want to get down early and fast to begin my shoots long before other hikers arrive. Then I rush to the next waterfalls before the sun rises too high!
If you want a longer and steeper hike that includes the two waterfalls of the Doyles River, you can park at mile 83 (Browns Gap) and then combine the Browns Gap Fire Rd, the Doyles River Trail, the Jones Run Trail, and the Appalachian Trail for a 5.8-mile loop hike!
Trail Map
The Trail
To hike down to the Falls and back, park at the Jones Run Trailhead (Mile 84.1). It is a popular hike on weekends so it is best to arrive early!
The trail curves steadily downhill. At 1.6 miles, Jones Run Falls #1 comes into view on your left.
Continue downhill for a short distance and you will suddenly stand above Jones Run Falls #2. From here a short switchback takes you to the base of the Falls at mile 1.8. This is the main waterfall along Jones Run.
At this point, you can return to the parking area but I suggest you continue downhill for just a few minutes to see the Jones Run Cascades.
NOTE – You can continue down the trail until it meets up with the Doyles River Trail. A left turn will take you to two stunning waterfalls but I cover these in another post.
Trail Profile
Google Map of Virginia Waterfalls
Jones Run Falls is in Shenandoah National Park on this Virginia Waterfalls map by Eben Schoeman.