Big Rock Falls
Virginia • Shenandoah National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Big Rock Falls
Big Rock Falls sits tucked inside Shenandoah National Park and is managed by the National Park Service, offering a peaceful woodland cascade that draws hikers seeking a short, scenic outing. The falls are reached via a moderately rated hike — a 2.0-mile out-and-back route that climbs roughly 300 feet — making it a satisfying half-day trip for families and day-hikers who want a taste of Shenandoah’s forested beauty. Because the falls lie within Shenandoah National Park, camping is convenient for multi-day visitors: Big Meadows Campground is just 3.95 km away. The combination of a moderate trail and a nearby campground makes Big Rock Falls a great option for anyone looking to pair an afternoon hike with an overnight under the park’s canopy.
The Setting
Big Rock Falls sits at 2,667 feet within Shenandoah National Park, fed by the S F Shenandoah River, in the hills of Virginia.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
South River Falls (83 ft) lies 9.1 miles to the southwest. Also nearby: Lewis Spring Falls (81 ft, 2.2 mi) and Dark Hollow Falls (70 ft, 1.6 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Length: 2.0 miles (out-and-back). Elevation gain: approximately 300 feet. Difficulty: Moderate. Trail type: Out-and-back. Managed by the National Park Service within Shenandoah National Park. Nearby camping: Big Meadows Campground — 3.95 km. Surface, grade, and trail class are not specified in the provided data; hikers should prepare for a typical maintained park trail and bring sturdy footwear.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Big Rock Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Big Rock Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall flow is typically strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather for hiking.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Shenandoah National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost. Check weather conditions before visiting, as rain can make the trail more hazardous.
Current Water Conditions
197 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge S F SHENANDOAH RIVER NEAR LURAY, VA (19 km away).
Today
Moderate
228 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
225 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
218 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
209 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
201 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
198 cfs
8/10Sat
Moderate
199 cfs
8/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to early April, peaking in March.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Stanley hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 159 feet through Big Rock Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 2,664 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 206 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 88 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face south and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,664 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 159 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Big Rock Falls is located within a forested area in Virginia. Access typically involves driving to a nearby trailhead and hiking to the falls. Specific directions may vary depending on the starting point.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, though spaces may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
2,667 feet above sea level
Coordinates
38.495403° N, -78.422784° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to secure parking, especially during weekends or peak seasons. Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking shoes. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall.
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With 2.0 miles and 300 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Chateau Merlot - Private Appalachian Cottage
The Cottages
Shenandoah dog friendly cabin in the trees - River access, BBQ, propane fire pit, outdoor dining & lounging, wood fireplace, screened in front porch and gated back deck!
Waterfront Cabin 20 Mins to National Park & Massanutten!
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Big Meadows Campground - Shenandoah (VA)
2.5 miles away · 224 sites
Overview Secluded in the thick trees and rolling hills of Shenandoah National Park, the Big Meadows Campground is the ideal spot for an outdoor family getaway.Recreation Shenandoah National Park has over 500 miles of trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Some trails lead to a waterfall or viewpoint while others wind deep into the forest and wilderness. Big Meadows is near many of the major facilities and popular hiking trails in the park. Three waterfalls are within walking distan
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and local parks in the area.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid feeding wildlife.
Cities near Big Rock Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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