Tank Hollow Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainPhoto Credits (1)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Tank Hollow Falls
Tank Hollow Falls is a quiet, picture-perfect cascade tucked into the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, managed by the U.S. Forest Service. This lesser-known gem drops over a rocky ledge into a small plunge pool and is surrounded by lush, forested slopes—an inviting spot for hikers seeking a peaceful nature escape without the crowds. The setting feels remote but is easily reached by a short hike, making it an excellent half-day outing. Note that developed group camping and picnic facilities are not immediate—the nearest listed site, Flatwoods Group Picnic Area, is about 27.6 km away—so plan accordingly for a day trip with water and layered clothing.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The path follows a forested corridor on natural tread, with generally gentle to moderate grades that are manageable for most hikers in reasonable condition. It is well-marked and leads directly to the rocky ledge and small pool at the base of the falls; expect typical woodland footing (roots, leaf litter, and occasional rocks). Allow a couple of hours round-trip to enjoy the scenery and take breaks.
What to Expect
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 Tank Hollow Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Tank Hollow Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically stronger due to seasonal rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 50°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Check weather conditions before visiting, as heavy rainfall can make trails muddy or hazardous. Cell service may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Clinch River, 0.3 miles away, not on Tank Hollow Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
154 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 106 years of record
1.69 ft
Water depth at gauge
50°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 50 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes. Mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge CLINCH RIVER AT CLEVELAND, VA (1 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
154 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
153 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
157 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
145 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
144 cfs
4/10Sun
Barely Flowing
149 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
142 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late January to mid April, peaking in February.
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 Cleveland hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Tank Hollow Falls Frozen?
Updated about 7 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately north-facing, shaded
Tank Hollow Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 66°F to 40°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 154 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 202 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 1,535 feet.
The ground is already steep on the way in, falling about 206 feet in the 500 feet above the pin, and levels out below the falls. 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
- 1,535 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 202 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
Tank Hollow Falls is located in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. Access is typically via forest roads, and visitors should check local maps or GPS for the most accurate directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at a small pull-off area near the trailhead. Space may be limited, especially during weekends or peak seasons.
Hours
Elevation
1,545 feet above sea level
Coordinates
36.940107° N, -82.154301° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may have uneven sections. Bring water and snacks, and consider visiting during the spring or after rainfall for the best waterfall flow. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls.
Where to Stay
Comfort Suites Abingdon I-81
Delta Hotels by Marriott Bristol
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Abingdon, VA
Super 8 by Wyndham Lebanon
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
FLATWOODS GROUP PICNIC AREA
17.1 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Flatwoods Group Picnic area is a secluded site surrounded by forest. It is a great facility for family reunions, organization activities and other group events. Recreation Open lawn areas are adjacent to the picnic area which can be used for activities such as horseshoes, sports and games (bring your own game and sports equipment). Hiking trails are available within easy driving distance (Guest River Gorge, Chief Benges Scout, and Little Stony Falls Trails). Facilities A paved parking lo
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
The George Washington and Jefferson National Forests offer numerous hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for camping and wildlife observation.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be aware of the potential presence of snakes and other forest creatures.
Cities near Tank Hollow Falls
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