Are there fees or permits required for Panther Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Panther Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Panther Falls?

Yes, swimming is allowed at Panther Falls.

Live Conditions · 20 ft³/s · Much lower than usual

Panther Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Panther Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Panther Falls.

Virginia

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

George Washington National Forest NF · US Forest Service

Photo Credits (2)

Dirtman's Images CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Jim Liestman CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Panther Falls

Panther Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the George Washington National Forest in Virginia. It is a popular spot for locals and visitors due to its serene setting and natural swimming hole.

The Setting

Panther Falls sits at 1,194 feet within George Washington National Forest, fed by the Pedlar River, in the foothills of Virginia.

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate hike follows Panther Falls (#508), a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 350 feet of elevation gain with grades of +12-20%. The trail is developed (Class 3).

USFS Trail

PANTHER FALLS #508

Trail Class

Developed

Surface

Native Material

Avg Grade

+12-20%

USFS Segment

0.19 mi

Trail Description

The trail to Panther Falls is short and easy, making it accessible for most visitors. It leads through a wooded area to the waterfall, which features a natural pool at its base.

What to Expect

Swimming is permitted. 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 Panther Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Panther Falls?

✅ Swimming is allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and summer are the best times to visit for warmer weather and swimming opportunities. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may provide a quieter experience.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with George Washington National Forest for seasonal road closures.

Safety Information

The rocks around the waterfall can be slippery, so use caution when walking near the water. Avoid swimming during high water levels or after heavy rain. Always supervise children near the water.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago Roaring

20 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Much lower than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

27 32 52 77

Based on 23 years of record

3.05 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

PEDLAR RIVER AT FOREST ROAD NEAR BUENA VISTA, VA

USGS 02024915

0.9 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 27 sq mi

Altitude: 1,057 ft

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Panther Falls is located off Panther Falls Road, near the town of Buena Vista, Virginia. The trailhead is accessible via a short drive from Route 60.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but it can fill up quickly during peak times.

Elevation

1194 feet above sea level

Coordinates

37.707079° N, -79.288922° W

Land Management

George Washington National Forest NF

Managed by USFS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy or slippery after rain. Bring water and snacks, and pack out all trash to keep the area clean.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

With 2.4 miles and 350 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.

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

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

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

Otter Creek Campground

9.5 miles away · 69 sites

Reservable

Overview Otter Creek Campground is located at the Blue Ridge Parkway's lowest elevation, only 649 feet above sea level. Picturesque Otter Creek winds through this quiet, rustic campground. Night skies are spectacular here, and there are several nearby trails to hike including the Otter Creek Trail, which is accessible from the campground. Just imagine enjoying the crackle of an evening campfire with the murmur of the creek in the background! Relax.... Recreation The James River/Otter Creek recrea

Book on Recreation.gov