Cedar Falls
Virginia • Shenandoah National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Cedar Falls
Cedar Falls is a scenic cascade set within the forested ridges of Shenandoah National Park, offering a peaceful stop for hikers exploring the park’s highlands. Though the name “Cedar Falls” can refer to multiple places (Wikipedia notes the name’s ambiguity), the waterfall here is a compact, photogenic drop framed by mixed hardwoods and typical Shenandoah understory. Land-unit records list this site as Rhm-Vof-2177 (designation OTHE) with management code OTHS and a private-owner notation (PVT), while the feature itself sits within the park boundary and is commonly visited by day hikers.
The Setting
Cedar Falls sits at 2,041 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 2.4 miles to the east. Also nearby: Lewis Spring Falls (81 ft, 10.0 mi) and Dark Hollow Falls (70 ft, 10.7 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The most commonly used route to Cedar Falls is an out-and-back hike of about 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain; the route is typically rated moderate and is suitable for most fit hikers. No USFS trail name or number is listed for this approach, and specific USFS trail surface/grade/class data are not available in the provided records. Expect a moderate forest trail with elevation changes over uneven ground; pack appropriate footwear and water. Lewis Mountain Campground is the closest developed camping option, approximately 7.14 km away, for those wanting an overnight stay near the park.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful natural setting with a waterfall surrounded by forested landscapes. The area may have uneven terrain and limited facilities.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cedar Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cedar Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are typically the best times to visit due to pleasant weather and vibrant foliage.
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
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and uneven terrain. Always stay on marked trails and avoid visiting during inclement weather.
Current Water Conditions
215 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 95 years of record
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
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 LYNNWOOD, VA (20 km away).
Today
Moderate
216 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Moderate
217 cfs
9/10Sun
Moderate
229 cfs
9/10Mon
Moderate
233 cfs
9/10Tue
Moderate
224 cfs
9/10Wed
Moderate
237 cfs
9/10Thu
Moderate
230 cfs
9/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to early May, 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 Elkton 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 measures about 263 feet of descent through Cedar Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 2,046 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 90 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 304 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face west and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,046 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 263 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
The exact location and directions to Cedar Falls in Virginia are not well-documented. Visitors are advised to consult local resources or trail guides for accurate directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should check local resources or contact nearby park services for information.
Elevation
2,041 feet above sea level
Coordinates
38.394849° N, -78.541401° W
Land Management
Managed by OTHS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring sturdy footwear and plenty of water. Check weather conditions and trail reports before visiting.
Where to Stay
Chateau Merlot - Private Appalachian Cottage
Waterfront Cabin 20 Mins to National Park & Massanutten!
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!
NEW! Shenandoah family & dog friendly cabin - 5 min walk river with private river access, BBQ, playground, fire pit
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
Lewis Mountain Campground
4.4 miles away · 32 sites
Overview This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you can pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app . Download the free Recreation.gov mobile app on Android or iOS prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service. Recreation Shenandoah National Park has over 500 miles of trails, including 101
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented. Visitors may explore other natural areas or parks in the region.
Wildlife
The area may feature typical Virginia wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Cedar Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Cedar Falls
8 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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