Crabtree Falls VA is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Virginia and a highlight of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Known as the tallest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River, Crabtree Falls drops nearly 1,200 feet in a series of dramatic tiers. The Crabtree Falls hike winds along these rushing cascades, offering sweeping views, shaded forest paths, and multiple overlooks that showcase why this is considered one of the best hikes in Virginia. In Spring, when snowmelt feeds the mountain streams, it’s truly spectacular.Â
The Shenandoah Valley offers many of the region’s most memorable outdoor experiences. In addition to exploring Crabtree Falls VA, you can spend your days discovering other Blue Ridge Parkway waterfalls, hiking scenic trails in Shenandoah National Park, touring local wineries and breweries, antiquing in Staunton and Lexington, or taking a scenic drive along Skyline Drive. From waterfall adventures to charming small town exploration, this corner of Virginia offers so many things to do in the Shenandoah Valley.
After a full day chasing waterfalls in the surrounding mountains, our romantic cabins in Virginia offer the perfect setting to unwind. Designed for comfort and connection, each cabin offers refined style, private porches, and thoughtful amenities in an elevated setting. Whether you are planning a weekend escape or a longer retreat, our romantic cabins are the ideal homebase for your Shenandoah Valley getaway. Book your room today!
Take a Picnic to Crabtree Falls, VA
As winter fades in the Shenandoah Valley and the days grow longer, there is no better time to head outside and experience Crabtree Falls, VA. Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Crabtree Falls is especially striking in spring, when snowmelt from the surrounding peaks feeds the cascades, amplifying their flow. The sound of rushing water echoes through the forest, and the trail comes alive with wildflowers and green foliage.
The total vertical drop of Crabtree Falls, VA is an impressive 1,200 feet spread across five major cascades. Rather than one single plunge, the waterfall tumbles down the mountainside in sections, creating multiple scenic overlooks along the Crabtree Falls hike. Each vantage point offers a different perspective, which is what makes this trail frequently ranked among the best hikes in Virginia.
The Crabtree Trailhead is easy to access just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. The full hike is about 2.5 miles round trip, and while portions can be steep and rocky, you only need to walk about 700 feet to reach the first overlook. This initial stretch is paved and gently sloped, making it approachable for many visitors who want to experience one of the most iconic waterfalls in Virginia without making the entire climb.
As you continue upward, you will pass four additional overlooks, each offering a place to pause and take in the view. Many couples enjoy bringing a picnic and taking their time along the trail. At the top, a footbridge offers a close-up view of the upper cascades, making for a classic photo opportunity.
Before heading out, consider ordering our Crabtree Falls Picnic. We provide a trail map, a list of our favorite picnic spots, and a thoughtfully packed lunch for two with your choice of sandwiches, homemade sides, fresh fruit, cookies, chips, and bottled water. It’s an easy way to make your Crabtree Falls hike memorable.
More Great Waterfalls in Virginia to See
As beautiful as we find Crabtree Falls, VA, there are so many other waterfalls in Virginia worth seeing this year. This is particularly true as you drive along the gorgeous Blue Ridge Parkway, not to mention the waterfalls in Shenandoah National Park.
Access to so many great parks and waterfalls in Virginia is one of the many reasons to stay with us at our romantic cabins in Virginia. They make this region one of the best destinations for Virginia waterfalls and scenic hiking adventures.
Waterfalls in Shenandoah National Park
- Though there are several outstanding waterfalls in Virginia to see in Shenandoah National Park, by far the best place to go is Whiteoak Canyon. There are six waterfalls alone here, all of which tumble through the gorge of Whiteoak Run. It’s a gorgeous place to spend a day hiking.
- Overall Run Falls is one of the waterfalls in Virginia that’s farthest from our Bed and Breakfast, but it’s impressive and well worth the effort. At 93 feet high, it’s the tallest waterfall in Shenandoah National Park.
- Another gem in Shenandoah National Park is Hazel River Falls, but it’s a gorgeous chute-style waterfall that drops 25 feet into a picturesque punchbowl.
- Dark Hollow Falls is located just off Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park and is a classic stair-stepping waterfall as it cascades down the river for a total descent of 70 feet.
- Don’t miss South River Falls, which drops an impressive 83 feet, surrounded by some truly gorgeous natural scenery.
- The final waterfall to see on Skyline Drive is Doyles River Falls. This hike should be combined with a visit to Jones Run Falls, as the same trail accesses both waterfalls. Upper Doyles Falls is a beautiful three-tiered waterfall that cascades 30 feet.
Waterfalls Near the Blue Ridge Parkway
- If you’re looking for a hidden gem waterfall that won’t have large crowds, visit the Mine Bank Cascades on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It’s a slide-style waterfall in the Saint Mary’s Wilderness, surrounded by lush scenery and gorgeous cascading water. This one is best seen in the spring when water levels are at their highest.
- While in the Saint Mary’s Wilderness, don’t miss the chance to see the 25-foot-tall Saint Mary’s Waterfall.
- White Rock Falls is accessed from the Slacks Overlook parking lot and offers a short, easy hike to a pretty waterfall.
- Staton’s Creek Falls is another of the most impressive waterfalls in Virginia, tumbling 140 feet in multiple stages.
- Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Natural Bridge State Park is Lace Falls, another excellent option for waterfalls in Virginia. This incredible waterfall drops for 50 feet and makes a nice addition to your time in the park.
- Apple Orchard Falls is one of the Jefferson National Forest’s most popular trails. Not only is the area beautiful, but the 200-foot drop makes this one of the most impressive waterfalls in Virginia.
- Falling Water Cascades is worth seeing and is just over an hour from our Inn. It’s part of the Flat Top National Recreation Trail, and the 100-foot waterfall won’t disappoint as it makes its way down and drops over large rock outcroppings.
Wherever your waterfall adventures take you in Virginia, whether it’s to Crabtree Falls, VA, or one of these other impressive waterfalls in Virginia, there’s no better place to serve as your home away from home than our top-rated romantic cabins in Virginia. Book your room today!
