Secret Waterfalls in Shenandoah National Park

Escape the crowds at these secret waterfalls!

It is crowded on most days of the week at Shenandoah National Parks’ most popular waterfalls. Trailhead parking is a zoo after 9 am on weekends and there are lines of people on every waterfall trail.

Fortunately, there are other options for hikers who seek solitude and relaxed photo opportunities. Here is a list of “secret” waterfalls; most will take your breath away!

Please scroll to the bottom of the article for a detailed description, trail profile, map, and photos of each waterfall.

Falls of Big Creek

Trail – Bushwack (rough in places)

Length – 3 miles one-way down to the falls then you need to hike back up the mountain

Summary – At least 3 beautiful waterfalls (and more to be discovered!)

Falls of Naked Creek

Trail – Bushwack (rough in places)

Length – 1 mile one-way down to the falls then you need to hike back up the mountain

Summary – At least 3 beautiful waterfalls (and more to be discovered!)

Falls of Dry Run Creek 

Trail – Fire road and Bushwack (rough in places)

Length – 3 miles one-way down to the park boundary then you need to hike back up the mountain along the Creek to explore the waterfalls

Summary – At least 7 beautiful waterfalls (and more to be discovered!)

Big Rock Falls

Trail – Maintained trail (easy)

Length – 1.5 miles one-way down to the Falls then you need to hike back up the mountain

Summary – Nothing spectacular but it is a less crowded option when all other parking areas are full. The waterfall trail can be combined with the Laurel Prong Trail and Appalachian Trail for a tough 7.2 loop

Big Branch Falls

Trail – Maintained trail (flat and easy)

Length – 2.2 miles one-way to the Falls then you need to hike back to your vehicle

Summary – Not a secret by any means but a good option during the week if the Skyline Drive trails are busy. On weekends it is a popular swimming area for locals and UVA students and not recommended.

Hazel Falls

Trail – Maintained trail (somewhat steep)

Length – 2.6 miles one-way down to the Falls then you need to hike back up the mountain

Summary – Nothing spectacular but it is a less crowded option when the popular waterfalls are busy. Unfortunately, the parking area is small. Fortunately, most hikers will head in another direction and you may have the Falls all to yourself.

Riprap Falls

Trail – Maintained trail (long and somewhat steep)

Length – 9.2 miles loop is recommended but you can hike down about 3.4 miles to the swimming hole and return back up the mountain

Summary – The swimming hole is popular with locals on weekends but coming from Skyline Drive you won’t see many people! The Creek above the swimming hole has many smaller waterfalls and is very scenic.

Little Devils Stairs Falls

Trail – Maintained trail (easy but slightly steep near the Falls)

Length – 1.4 miles one-way down to the Falls then you need to hike back up the mountain

Summary – Nothing spectacular but it is a less crowded option when all other parking areas are full. The waterfall trail can be combined with other trails in the area.

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