Smith River Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (4)
About Smith River Falls
Smith River Falls is a peaceful, photo-worthy cascade tucked along the Smith River in Virginia, rewarding visitors with a quiet riverside setting and the soothing sounds of flowing water. The falls are accessed via a short but engaging hike, making them a popular choice for hikers and day-trippers looking for a scenic escape without an all-day commitment. Expect lush forest framing and pockets of rocky shoreline ideal for pausing and taking in the view.
The Setting
Smith River Falls sits at 2,621 feet along the Smith River, in the hills of Virginia.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The access route to Smith River Falls is a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. Trail surface, grade, and formal USFS trail class are not specified in the available data, so hikers should be prepared for natural tread and some uneven sections; sturdy footwear is recommended. For overnight options, Rock Castle Gorge Backcountry Camping lies about 9.13 km away, offering a nearby backcountry camping opportunity—always check current trail conditions and any local advisories before you go.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil natural setting with the soothing sounds of the Smith River and the falls. The area is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a great spot for photography and relaxation.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Smith River Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Smith River Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are ideal for visiting due to mild weather and vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, but it may be warmer.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls and be aware of changing water levels. Always stay on marked trails and avoid venturing too close to the edge of the falls.
Current Water Conditions
21 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
2.28 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
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 SMITH RIVER AT SMITH RIV CHURCH NR WOOLWINE, VA (10 km away).
Today
Moderate
21 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Moderate
21 cfs
9/10Sun
Moderate
21 cfs
9/10Mon
Moderate
21 cfs
9/10Tue
Moderate
21 cfs
9/10Wed
Moderate
21 cfs
9/10Thu
Moderate
21 cfs
9/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
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 Meadows of Dan 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 298 feet of descent through Smith River Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 2,624 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 111 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 131 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northwest and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,624 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 298 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Smith River Falls is located near the Smith River in Virginia. Access details may vary, so it is recommended to check local maps or contact nearby visitor centers for precise directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may find parking near trailheads or designated areas along the Smith River.
Hours
Elevation
2,621 feet above sea level
Coordinates
36.724302° N, -80.339225° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear and bring water, as trail conditions may vary. Check weather conditions before visiting, as rain can make trails slippery.
Where to Stay
Gorgeous Log Cabin - Wineries, Dan River, Hiking
Serene Cabin Less Than 1 Mi to Fairy Stone State Park!
Wolf Creek Farm B&B and Motorcycle Manor at Wolf Creek Farm, LLC
Giggling Creek Cottage - BedJet! King Sized! Gazebo, 45 Acres, Arcades, Nintendo, more
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
Rock Castle Gorge Backcountry Camping
5.7 miles away · 8 sites
Overview Rock Castle Gorge Backcountry Campground is a primitive camp located along the Rock Castle Gorge Trail in the Rocky Knob Recreational Area which is part of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Rock Castle Gorge Backcountry Campsites can be reached from various points ranging in distance from 1/2 mile to 8 miles. The complete Rock Castle Gorge Trail is a 10.8 mile loop, there are several other loop trails that connect to it. Rock Castle Creek, Little Rock Castle Creek and many other streams and
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Nearby Attractions
The Smith River area offers opportunities for fishing, hiking, and exploring other natural attractions in the region.
Wildlife
The area around Smith River Falls is home to various bird species, small mammals, and aquatic life.
Cities near Smith River Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Smith River Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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