Dark Hollow Falls
Virginia • Shenandoah National Park • 70 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
1.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
440 ft
About Dark Hollow Falls
Dark Hollow Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. It is one of the most popular waterfalls in the park due to its accessibility and scenic beauty. The waterfall cascades down a series of rock ledges, creating a serene and photogenic setting.
The Setting
Dark Hollow Falls sits at 2,966 feet within Shenandoah National Park, in the hills of Virginia. The falls drop 70 feet.
Height: 70 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
South River Falls (83 ft) lies 10.5 miles to the southwest. Also nearby: Lewis Spring Falls (81 ft, 1.4 mi) and Rose River Falls (67 ft, 1.2 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 1.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 440 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Dark Hollow Falls is a short but moderately steep hike. It descends through a forested area with a well-maintained path. The trail follows a stream, providing scenic views and the soothing sound of running water. The return hike is uphill and can be challenging for some visitors.
What to Expect
The falls drop 70 feet.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Dark Hollow Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Pets aren't allowed on the Dark Hollow Falls Trail in Shenandoah National Park.
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $30.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Dark Hollow Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring is the best time to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt and spring rains. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides lush greenery. Winter visits may be possible but could be icy or snowy.
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
The trail can be slippery, especially near the waterfall. Wear appropriate footwear and exercise caution. Be aware of wildlife and avoid feeding or approaching animals. Carry plenty of water and be prepared for the uphill return hike.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on South F Shenandoah River, 10.7 miles away, not on Dark Hollow Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
315 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 64 years of record
1.86 ft
Water depth at gauge
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 (17 km away).
Today
Moderate
315 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
350 cfs
5/10Sat
Moderate
345 cfs
8/10Sun
Moderate
342 cfs
8/10Mon
Moderate
331 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
339 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
339 cfs
8/10Best window: Today — 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.
Is Dark Hollow Falls Frozen?
Updated about 17 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately north-facing, shaded
Dark Hollow Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 61°F to 42°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 265 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Virginia.
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.
The ground through the falls loses about 199 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The falls are listed at 70 feet; the extra comes from the ravine that continues below the base. The ground at the falls is roughly 2,961 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 99 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 107 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,961 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 199 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Dark Hollow Falls is located off Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park. The trailhead is near milepost 50.7, close to the Byrd Visitor Center.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Dark Hollow Falls trailhead, but it can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
2,966 feet above sea level
Coordinates
38.519014° N, -78.423340° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes with good traction, as the trail can be steep and slippery. Bring water, especially during warmer months. Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Be prepared for an uphill hike on the return trip.
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With 1.4 miles and 440 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)
1.1 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
Other nearby attractions include Skyline Drive, Big Meadows, and Rose River Falls.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter deer, black bears, and a variety of birds. Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
Cities near Dark Hollow Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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