South River Falls
Virginia • Shenandoah National Park • 83 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.8 miles
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
1,200 ft
About South River Falls
South River Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. It is one of the tallest waterfalls in the park, cascading approximately 83 feet into a rocky gorge. The waterfall is surrounded by lush forest, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The Setting
South River Falls sits at 2,129 feet within Shenandoah National Park, fed by the Rapidan River, in the hills of Virginia. The falls drop 83 feet.
Height: 83 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Lewis Spring Falls (81 ft) lies 10.1 miles to the north. Also nearby: Dark Hollow Falls (70 ft, 10.5 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 4.8-mile loop trail gains 1,200 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to South River Falls begins at the South River Picnic Area and descends through a forested area with moderate elevation changes. Hikers can choose to view the falls from an overlook or continue down a steeper section of the trail to reach the base of the waterfall. The loop trail offers scenic views and opportunities to spot wildlife.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 83 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at South River Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $30.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at South River Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically strongest after seasonal rains. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a quieter experience with potential ice formations on the falls.
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 includes steep sections, particularly near the base of the falls. Exercise caution, especially after rain, as the trail may be slippery. Always stay on marked trails and avoid climbing on rocks near the waterfall.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge RAPIDAN RIVER NEAR RUCKERSVILLE, VA (18 km away).
Today
Moderate
32 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Moderate
32 cfs
9/10Sun
Moderate
36 cfs
9/10Mon
Moderate
36 cfs
9/10Tue
Moderate
38 cfs
9/10Wed
Moderate
38 cfs
9/10Thu
Moderate
38 cfs
9/10Best 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 Elkton 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 South River Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. That is more than the listed 83 feet because the gorge keeps dropping below the falls themselves. The brink sits at about 2,126 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 79 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 127 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face east and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,126 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 188 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
South River Falls is located in Shenandoah National Park, near the South River Picnic Area. The trailhead can be accessed from Skyline Drive at milepost 62.8.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the South River Picnic Area, which serves as the trailhead for the hike to the falls.
Elevation
2,129 feet above sea level
Coordinates
38.379572° N, -78.501122° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early to avoid crowds, especially during peak seasons. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, as the trail includes significant elevation changes. Bug spray is recommended during warmer months.
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With 4.8 miles and 1,200 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
Waterfront Cabin 20 Mins to National Park & Massanutten!
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!
NEW! Shenandoah family & dog friendly cabin - 5 min walk river with private river access, BBQ, playground, fire pit
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
Lewis Mountain Campground
4.1 miles away · 32 sites
Overview This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you can pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app . Download the free Recreation.gov mobile app on Android or iOS prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service. Recreation Shenandoah National Park has over 500 miles of trails, including 101
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Massanutten, Virginia
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Massanutten, Virginia on SoakingSprings.
Explore Virginia springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other attractions in Shenandoah National Park include Dark Hollow Falls, Hawksbill Mountain, and the scenic Skyline Drive.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, black bears, and numerous bird species. Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
Cities near South River Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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