Falls of Dismal
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainPhoto Credits (1)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Falls of Dismal
Falls of Dismal is a picturesque waterfall located in the Jefferson National Forest in Giles County, Virginia. It features a wide cascade over a rocky ledge into a serene pool below, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
The Setting
Falls of Dismal sits at 2,231 feet within Jefferson National Forest, fed by the Wolf Creek, in the hills of Virginia.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Hoof & Hill (#1061), a 0.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
HOOF & HILL #1061
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
2.01 miTrail Description
The trail to Falls of Dismal is short and relatively flat, making it accessible for most visitors. It follows Dismal Creek and offers scenic views of the surrounding forest. The trail is well-maintained and easy to navigate.
What to Expect
Swimming is permitted. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Falls of Dismal?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Falls of Dismal?
✅ Swimming is allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall flow is typically strongest after seasonal rains.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Jefferson National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Rocks around the waterfall can be slippery, so exercise caution when exploring near the water. Be aware of changing water levels after heavy rain.
Current Water Conditions
141 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 96 years of record
3.28 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display.
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 WOLF CREEK NEAR NARROWS, VA (14 km away).
Today
Roaring
141 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Roaring
138 cfs
9/10Sun
Roaring
135 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
138 cfs
9/10Tue
Roaring
138 cfs
9/10Wed
Roaring
144 cfs
9/10Thu
Roaring
152 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early February to late 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 Mechanicsburg 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.
The ground through the falls loses about 130 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 2,251 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 112 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 39 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southeast, the falls 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
- 2,251 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 130 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- 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 southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Falls of Dismal is accessible via Dismal Creek Road (Route 671) in the Jefferson National Forest. The waterfall is located near the Appalachian Trail, and visitors can park nearby to access the short trail leading to the falls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead on Dismal Creek Road. Parking may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
2,231 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.188454° N, -80.900356° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early during weekends or peak seasons to secure parking. Wear sturdy shoes as the area around the falls can be slippery. Bring insect repellent during summer months.
Where to Stay
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Princeton, WV
Sleep Inn & Suites Princeton I-77
Sleep Inn Wytheville I-77 and I-81
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Princeton
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
STONY FORK CABIN
19.8 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Stony Fork Cabin is a cozy one-bedroom hideaway with most of the comforts of home. Visitors can hike, mountain bike, explore the many nearby creeks, or simply relax on the cabin's private patio. The cabin is located within the Stony Fork Campground along the Big Walker Mountain Scenic Byway. The Appalachian Trail, Seven Sisters Trail, and stocked fishing streams are all within a close proximity, and the site is easily accessed from I-77. State hunting and fishing regulations and licensin
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Nearby Attractions
The Appalachian Trail passes nearby, offering additional hiking opportunities. Dismal Falls Campground is also in the area for those interested in camping.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of snakes near the water.
Cities near Falls of Dismal
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