Lewis Spring Falls
Virginia • Shenandoah National Park • 81 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (1)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
3.3 miles
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
990 ft
About Lewis Spring Falls
Lewis Spring Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. It is known for its scenic views and the surrounding lush forest, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The Setting
Lewis Spring Falls sits at 2,841 feet within Shenandoah National Park, in the hills of Virginia. The falls drop 81 feet.
Height: 81 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
South River Falls (83 ft) lies 10.1 miles to the south. Also nearby: Dark Hollow Falls (70 ft, 1.4 mi) and Rose River Falls (67 ft, 2.4 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 3.3-mile loop trail gains 990 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Lewis Spring Falls is a loop that offers a mix of forested paths and rocky terrain. Hikers will encounter moderate elevation changes and can enjoy stunning views of the waterfall and surrounding valley. The trail is well-marked but may be slippery after rain.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 81 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 Lewis Spring Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Leashed pets are allowed on most Shenandoah trails, but not on Dark Hollow Falls, Old Rag, Stony Man, Bearfence, and a few other named trails.
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $30.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lewis Spring Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are the best times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically stronger in spring, and fall offers vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, but the trail may be busier.
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 after rain, and there are steep sections near the waterfall. Stay on marked trails and avoid getting too close to the edge. Carry a map or GPS, as cell service may be limited.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on South F Shenandoah River, 9.8 miles away, not on Lewis Spring Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
306 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 64 years of record
1.84 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 (16 km away).
Today
Low
306 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
311 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
345 cfs
4/10Fri
Moderate
367 cfs
5/10Sat
Low
349 cfs
6/10Sun
Low
346 cfs
6/10Mon
Low
335 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — low flow, sunny (trip score 6/10).
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 Lewis Spring Falls Frozen?
Updated about 8 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Lewis Spring Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 55°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.
1-meter lidar measures about 303 feet of descent through Lewis Spring Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. That is more than the listed 81 feet because the gorge keeps dropping below the falls themselves. The brink sits at about 2,846 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 176 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 209 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
- 2,846 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 303 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
Lewis Spring Falls is located off Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park. The trailhead can be accessed from the Big Meadows area, near milepost 51.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Big Meadows parking area. It is recommended to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot.
Elevation
2,841 feet above sea level
Coordinates
38.520402° N, -78.449452° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, especially after rain, as the trail can be slippery. Bring water and snacks, and consider hiking early in the day to avoid crowds. Check the weather forecast before your visit.
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With 3.3 miles and 990 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)
0.8 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.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Luray, Virginia
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Luray, Virginia on SoakingSprings.
Explore Virginia springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Big Meadows, Dark Hollow Falls, and Skyline Drive are nearby attractions worth exploring.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter deer, black bears, and a variety of bird species. Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
Cities near Lewis Spring Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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