Jones Run Falls
Virginia • Shenandoah National Park • 42 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
3.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
915 ft
About Jones Run Falls
Jones Run Falls is a picturesque 42-foot waterfall located in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. It is known for its serene setting and lush surroundings, especially vibrant during spring and after heavy rains.
The Setting
Jones Run Falls sits at 1,900 feet within Shenandoah National Park, fed by the S F Shenandoah River, in the hills of Virginia. The falls drop 42 feet.
Height: 42 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 3.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 915 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Jones Run Falls is a moderately challenging hike through a forested area with rocky terrain and some steep sections. The trail follows Jones Run, offering scenic views of the stream and smaller cascades along the way.
What to Expect
The falls drop 42 feet. 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 Jones Run Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $30.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Jones Run Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Jones Run Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a chance to see the waterfall partially frozen.
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 after rain. Watch your footing on rocky sections and stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost. Carry a map or GPS device.
Current Water Conditions
175 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 95 years of record
2.21 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 LYNNWOOD, VA (11 km away).
Today
Low
175 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
178 cfs
6/10Tue
Low
171 cfs
6/10Wed
Low
181 cfs
6/10Thu
Moderate
190 cfs
5/10Fri
Moderate
198 cfs
5/10Sat
Moderate
191 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — low flow, partly sunny (trip score 6/10).
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 Harriston 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 208 feet of descent through Jones Run Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. That is more than the listed 42 feet because the gorge keeps dropping below the falls themselves. The brink sits at about 1,901 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 133 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 54 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing east, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,901 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 208 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Jones Run Falls is accessed via Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park. The trailhead is located at the Jones Run parking area, near milepost 84.1.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Jones Run parking area along Skyline Drive. Spaces may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,900 feet above sea level
Coordinates
38.229575° N, -78.704466° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start early to avoid crowds and ensure parking availability. Wear sturdy footwear as the trail can be rocky and slippery, especially after rain. Bring water and snacks, and be prepared for a moderate climb on the return trip.
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With 3.4 miles and 915 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
Montfair Resort Farm
Waterfront Cabin 20 Mins to National Park & Massanutten!
Mountainside Villas at Massanutten by TripForth
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Harrisonburg, VA
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
Loft Mountain Campground
2.3 miles away · 213 sites
Overview Perched on top of Big Flat Mountain, this is one of the largest campgrounds in the park. Loft Mountain is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a wilderness getaway in the historic Blue Ridge mountains of Virginia. Recreation Shenandoah National Park has over 500 miles of trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Some trails lead to a waterfall or lookout, while others wind deep into the forest and wilderness. Trails to the Big Run Wilderness area are acces
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Nearby Attractions
Other nearby attractions include Doyles River Falls, Blackrock Summit, and the scenic overlooks along Skyline Drive.
Wildlife
The area is home to deer, black bears, and a variety of bird species. Be cautious and maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
Cities near Jones Run Falls
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