1.3 km away
Blackrock & Lewis Spring Falls
A short yet challenging hike pairing the epic views from Blackrock with Lewis Spring Falls, the fourth-largest waterfall in the park.
Difficult Hiking
- Distance
- 5.2 km
- Ascent
- 301 m
- Descent
- 301 m
Dark Hollow Falls
A classic short hike to a stunning waterfall in Shenandoah National Park.
Hiking Moderate
- Distance
- 2.5 km
- Ascent
- 181 m
- Descent
- 181 m
- Duration
- 0-1 hrs
- Low Point
- 863 m
- High Point
- 1 km
- Gradient
- 10˚
Dark Hollow Falls is the must-do waterfall hike in Shenandoah National Park. It's less than 0.75 miles from the trailhead and is even accessible from Big Meadows Campground. Though challenging at times, your reward is a "beautiful series of waterfalls and cascades," on what the NPS highlights as "one of the most popular hikes in the park."
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Description
Though short, the hike can be quite challenging at times. The NPS describes several steep sections and notes how dogs are not allowed on this particular trail. The Rose River Loop is recommended if you'd like to take your four-legged friend out for a walk.
As with many hikes along Skyline Drive, this out-and-back hike is entirely downhill to the waterfall, so be sure to save some energy for the return trip. The average hiker should be able to complete the trek in 1 - 2 hours.
The trailhead is located at milepost 50.7 on Skyline Drive, roughly the halfway point of the 105-mile roadway. Big Meadows Campground is just across the road, and there are trails to connect the two.
Difficulty
Moderate
Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.
Medium Exposure
The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.
Remoteness
In the high mountains or remote conditions, all individuals must be completely autonomous in every situation.
Best time to visit
Features
- Wildlife
- Picturesque
- Wild flowers
- Water features
- Family friendly
- Forestry or heavy vegetation
Similar routes nearby
1.8 km away
Rose River Loop
A moderate 4-mile hike with stunning waterfalls, an abandoned mine, and a historic cemetery.
Moderate Hiking
- Distance
- 5.8 km
- Ascent
- 275 m
- Descent
- 275 m
5.6 km away
Hawksbill Mountain Loop
A short loop to the highest peak in Shenandoah National Park.
Moderate Hiking
- Distance
- 4.3 km
- Ascent
- 236 m
- Descent
- 236 m
7.5 km away
Whiteoak Canyon -> Nicholson Hollow -> Old Rag Circuit
A challenging, but epic, overnight loop showcasing Whiteoak Canyon and Old Rag Mountain.
Severe Hiking
- Distance
- 28 km
- Ascent
- 1.5 km
- Descent
- 1.5 km
7.5 km away
Whiteoak Canyon -> Cedar Run Loop
A spectacular hike with eight waterfalls and plenty of summer swimming holes.
Moderate Hiking
- Distance
- 12 km
- Ascent
- 713 m
- Descent
- 713 m
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Guidebooks in this area
6 routes · Hiking
Find Your Perfect Overnight Trip in Shenandoah NP
10 routes · Hiking
10 Classic Hikes in Shenandoah National Park
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