Last updated: February 10, 2021
Thing to Do
South River Falls Observation Point
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.
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
- Just below the South River picnic grounds comfort station (mile 62.7), take the blue-blazed South River Falls Trail.
- 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.
- Retrace your steps to return to your starting point.
Details
Duration
1-2 Hours
The average hiking duration does not take into consideration fitness, exploration, rest, contemplation, etc.
Activity
Hiking
Pets Allowed
Yes with Restrictions
Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.
Activity Fee
No
An entrance fee is required to get into Shenandoah National Park.
Location
Central District (Mile 62.7)
The trailhead for this hike is located just below the comfort station at the South River picnic grounds.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Accessibility Information
This trail does not meet ADA accessibility guidelines.
Download the trail map
Click the image to download the trail map. Print it out at home or save it to your phone to take with you on your hike.