Is swimming allowed at Blue Suck Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Blue Suck Falls.

Live Conditions · 230 ft³/s · Lower than usual

Blue Suck Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Blue Suck Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Blue Suck Falls.

Virginia

By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026

Douthat State Park SP · SDC

Photo Credits (5)

Virginia State Parks staff CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

vastateparksstaff CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

chesbayprogram CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr

vastateparksstaff CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

Claire CJS CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Blue Suck Falls

Blue Suck Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Douthat State Park, Virginia. It is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts, offering a serene setting surrounded by lush forest. The waterfall is part of a larger trail system within the park.

The Setting

Blue Suck Falls sits at 2,014 feet within Douthat State Park, fed by the Jackson River Bl Gathright Dam, in the hills of Virginia.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Falling Spring Falls (80 ft) lies 7.4 miles to the west.

Falling Spring Falls

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

The trail to Blue Suck Falls is a challenging hike with significant elevation gain. It winds through dense forest, offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail is well-marked but can be steep and rocky in sections, requiring sturdy footwear and good physical fitness.

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 Blue Suck Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fee: $7.00

🏊 Is There Swimming at Blue Suck Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and fall are the best times to visit, as the weather is mild, and the foliage adds to the scenic beauty. Summer can also be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer temperatures.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

The trail can be steep and rocky, so proper footwear is essential. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Cell service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago Barely Flowing

230 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Lower than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

225 246 680 1.1k

Based on 46 years of record

8.97 ft

Water depth at gauge

57°F

Cold

Bracing — limit time in water

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is lower than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 57 degrees F, limit your time in the water.

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.

JACKSON RIVER BL GATHRIGHT DAM NR HOT SPGS, VA

USGS 02011800

7.6 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 345 sq mi

Altitude: 1,400 ft

Know when to go.

Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Clifton Forge hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Blue Suck Falls is located within Douthat State Park, which is accessible via Interstate 64. The park entrance is well-marked, and visitors can follow signs to the trailhead leading to the falls.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at Douthat State Park near the trailhead. A state park parking fee may apply.

Elevation

2014 feet above sea level

Coordinates

37.904736° N, -79.821287° W

Land Management

Douthat State Park SP

Managed by UNK

Visitor Tips & Gear

Start early to allow plenty of time for the hike and to avoid crowds. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and wear sturdy hiking boots. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail can become slippery after rain.

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With 2.4 miles and 350 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.

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

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

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Nearby Campground

COLES POINT

8.3 miles away · 2 sites

Reservable

Overview Coles Point Picnic Shelters are tucked in a small opening surrounded by a hardwood forest. Opportunities abound for hiking, photography, nature study, birding and viewing wildlife. Best of all, Coles Point is perched along Moomaw Lake, providing convenient access to boating, fishing, swimming and relaxing on the beach.Recreation An inviting swimming beach within the recreation area lures crowds, and the picnic area has an open field for games like Frisbee and soccer. The park offers boat

Book on Recreation.gov