Rose River Falls
Virginia • Shenandoah National Park • 67 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.0 miles
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
910 ft
About Rose River Falls
Rose River Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. It features cascading waters surrounded by lush forest, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The Setting
Rose River Falls sits at 2,343 feet within Shenandoah National Park, fed by the S F Shenandoah River, in the hills of Virginia. The falls drop 67 feet.
Height: 67 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Lewis Spring Falls (81 ft) lies 2.4 miles to the west. Also nearby: Dark Hollow Falls (70 ft, 1.2 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 4.0-mile loop trail gains 910 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The Rose River Loop Trail is a scenic hike that follows the Rose River and features multiple cascades and the main waterfall. The trail is well-marked but includes some rocky and uneven sections, as well as moderate elevation gain.
What to Expect
The falls drop 67 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 Rose River Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $30.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Rose River Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Rose River Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons. Fall offers stunning foliage, while winter may provide a unique view of frozen cascades.
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. Be aware of wildlife and carry bear spray if hiking alone.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge S F SHENANDOAH RIVER NEAR LURAY, VA (17 km away).
Today
Moderate
265 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Moderate
262 cfs
9/10Sun
Moderate
296 cfs
9/10Mon
Moderate
316 cfs
9/10Tue
Moderate
339 cfs
9/10Wed
Moderate
306 cfs
9/10Thu
Moderate
307 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
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.
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 188 feet of descent through Rose River Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. That is more than the listed 67 feet because the gorge keeps dropping below the falls themselves. The brink sits at about 2,329 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 205 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 69 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face south and 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
- 2,329 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 188 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- 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 south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Rose River Falls is located within Shenandoah National Park. The trailhead is accessible from the Skyline Drive at the Fishers Gap Overlook (milepost 49.4).
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Fishers Gap Overlook. Spaces may be limited during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
2,343 feet above sea level
Coordinates
38.531513° N, -78.408340° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trail can be rocky and slippery, especially after rain. Bring plenty of water and snacks, and consider visiting early in the day to avoid crowds. Bug spray is recommended during warmer months.
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With 4.0 miles and 910 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)
1.7 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
Dark Hollow Falls, Hawksbill Mountain, and Big Meadows are all located nearby within Shenandoah National Park.
Wildlife
The area is home to deer, black bears, and a variety of bird species. Visitors should exercise caution and avoid feeding wildlife.
Cities near Rose River Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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