Summer is finally here, and it is the perfect excuse to get everyone out of the house and into the great outdoors. With the heat of the summer settling in, there is no better place to spend a day than near the water, especially when that water leads you to a waterfall or maybe even a few along the way. 

To help you make the most of the summer, we’ve rounded up six Virginia waterfalls worth the trip, so you can start planning your next adventure now. So grab your hiking boots, pack your swimwear, load up the car and explore some of the Commonwealth’s most beautiful natural escapes with your crew.  

Waterfalls Worth the Trip 

Each hike ranges in difficulty, making each trail accessible for just about everyone, from the toddler who can’t stop singing on the way to the more experienced hiker looking for a rewarding day outdoors. Many of these destinations offer plenty of shade, family photo ops and natural swimming spots, making them a unique way to cool off while still enjoying everything Virginia has to offer.  

South River Falls (Stanardsville) 

Drive Time from FXBG: 1 hour 45 minutes  

Gain nearly 1,300 feet in elevation to view the third-tallest waterfall in the Shenandoah National Park, South River Falls. The trail offers multiple beautiful views of this 83-foot tall waterfall with plenty of wildflowers and birds along the trail. Come prepared with a good snack, as this is the longest trail on our list.  

Difficulty: Moderate 

Trail Length: 4.4 miles 

Type: Out & Back 

Fees/Parking: $30 per vehicle (valid for seven days). Credit, debit and mobile payments accepted; no cash. Park at the South River Picnic Area lot.  

Dark Hollow Falls (Stanley) 

Drive Time from FXBG: 2 hours  

This popular trail follows an inclined, rocky path along the water to a stunning view of Dark Hollow Falls. It can get crowded, so plan to arrive early to find parking. Yet, the effort is well worth it, and with a little planning, you can pair it with other waterfalls and trails in Shenandoah National Park.  

Difficulty: Easy-Moderate 

Trail Length: 1.8 miles 

Type: Out & Back 

Fees/Parking:  $30 per vehicle (valid for seven days).  Credit, debit and mobile payments accepted; no cash. Park at milepost 50.7 on Skyline Drive. 

Saint Mary’s Falls (Raphine)

Time from FXBG: 2 hours 30 minutes 

Tucked into the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Saint Mary’s Falls Trail leads to cascading waterfalls and clear, cool pools where hikers often wade, relax on the rocks and cool off in the summer. The trail follows the water closely and crosses the river several times, so sturdy, water-friendly footwear is recommended.  

Difficulty: Moderate[Text Wrapping Break]Trail Length: 4.3 miles 

Type: Out & Back 

Fees/Parking: Free, but parking is limited at the Saint Mary’s Wilderness trailhead. 

Panther Falls (Vesuvius) 

Drive Time from FXBG: 3 hours  

Enjoy a brief stroll to Panther Falls and it’s swimming hole. It is a beloved spot in the summer, so expect crowds. Still, the swimming hole justifies the trip. You can jump from a 10-foot rock ledge next to the falls or simply enjoy soaking in the cool water on a hot summer day.  

Difficulty: Easy 

Trail Length: 0.4 miles 

Type: Out & Back 

Fees/Parking: Free parking can be found at the Panther Falls Trailhead. 

Roaring Run Falls (Eagle Rock) 

Drive Time from FXBG: 3 hours 15 minutes 

This scenic, easy hike features the beautiful Roaring Run Falls, a mountain overlook and the historic Roaring Run Iron Furnace. Take the Streamside Trail along the water to the falls, then retrace your steps back to the 0.8-mile mark and continue on the Woodland Trail past the iron furnace and back to the parking lot. Be sure to bring a swimsuit and slide down the smooth rocks into a small water hole below to cool off on those hot summer days.  

Difficulty: Easy 

Trail Length: 1.7 miles  

Type: Loop  

Fees/Parking: Free gravel lot by the trailhead. 

A Bonus Stop Worth a Try 

If you are looking for another spot a bit north of Fredericksburg, Great Falls Park is a perfect choice for a full day outdoors. 

Great Falls (McLean) 

Drive Time from FXBG: 1 hour 15 minutes 

Just 15 miles outside of Washington, D.C., Great Falls Park offers gorgeous views of the Potomac River as it plunges over jagged rocks through Mather Gorge. The park has several trails of varying lengths, including the flat 1.8-mile Swamp Trail through the forest and the popular 3-mile round trip River Trail with sweeping views of the gorge. With options for every fitness level, it is a destination that works for casual walkers and more adventurous hikers alike.  

Difficulty: Easy 

Trail Length: Varied 

Type: Varied 

Fees/Parking: $20 per vehicle 

 FredParent is your go-to resource for raising a family in the ’Burg. Whether you’re deep in swim meet season, chasing waterfalls for your next weekend adventure, navigating pool days with a little more confidence or getting real-life insights from lifeguards we’ve got you covered.

Plus, discover five kid-friendly hikes worth exploring, plan your summer with our 2026 VBS guide, and find the best baby and toddler swim lessons in our ultimate roundup. From everyday moments to memory-making outings, it’s all here."