Place

South River Falls Observation Point Trailhead

A color photo showing a forest of green trees with a dirt trail underneath of them.

Quick Facts
Location:
South River Picnic Grounds (mile 62.7)

From South River Picnic Grounds, this hike leads you through a verdant forest alive with a wide variety of plant and animal life to a stone-walled observation point overlooking an 83 foot waterfall. Be prepared for one stream crossing. Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.


Distance: 2.6-mile round trip hike
Difficulty: Moderate (explanation of our hiking difficulty scale)
Hiking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Elevation Gain: 850 feet


Hike Description 

  1. Just below the South River Picnic Grounds comfort station (mile 62.7), take the blue-blazed South River Falls Trail.
  2. You’ll cross the Appalachian Trail, but stay on the South River Falls Trail to the stone-walled observation point. You can continue to the base of the falls from here if you wish, adding a steep and rocky 1.5-miles to your hike.
  3. Retrace your steps to return to your starting point.

Shenandoah National Park

Last updated: May 14, 2021