Dark Hollow Falls Shenandoah National Park
A picturesque cascade in Shenandoah National Park, accessible via a moderate 1.4-mile hike with rewarding views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & enjoy peace
Dark Hollow Falls Shenandoah National Park
Best Time
Beat the crowds & enjoy peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque cascade in Shenandoah National Park, accessible via a moderate 1.4-mile hike with rewarding views.
"Best waterfall hike at Shenandoah National Park! 
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast! Aim for an early start to secure a spot and enjoy a less crowded hike.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail can be slippery, especially after rain. Wear good hiking shoes or boots for better grip.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dark Hollow Falls
Off Skyline Drive, Milepost 42.5
Cascading water over greenstone, a rewarding sight after a moderate hike.
Upper Falls Scramble
Above the main falls
Climb rocks for a quieter, more secluded experience away from the main crowds.
Fall Foliage Views
Along the trail
Spectacular autumn colors transform the forest, making mid-October a prime time to visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast! Aim for an early start to secure a spot and enjoy a less crowded hike.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail can be slippery, especially after rain. Wear good hiking shoes or boots for better grip.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
There are no facilities at the trailhead. Stay hydrated and fueled for the uphill return.
🏊♀️ Swim at Your Own Risk
While swimming is allowed, be mindful of water quality and other visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast! Aim for an early start to secure a spot and enjoy a less crowded hike.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail can be slippery, especially after rain. Wear good hiking shoes or boots for better grip.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
There are no facilities at the trailhead. Stay hydrated and fueled for the uphill return.
🏊♀️ Swim at Your Own Risk
While swimming is allowed, be mindful of water quality and other visitors.
⬆️ Prepare for Uphill Return
The hike down is easy, but the climb back up can be a workout. Pace yourself!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Dark Hollow Falls is a highly-rated, beautiful waterfall hike in Shenandoah National Park, praised for its accessibility and scenic beauty. While the short, moderate trail is enjoyable for families, the steep uphill return can be challenging. Visitors often highlight the stunning falls and the opportunity to scramble on rocks for quieter spots. However, overcrowding and occasional issues with visitor etiquette are noted drawbacks.
"Best waterfall to visit at the Shenandoah National Park. It’s just a 1.4 mile round trip hike from the parking lot. You do however experience an almost 500ft elevation change during this hike so pace yourself. But overall it’s a great hike with family. Kids will enjoy jumping in the pool next to the falls so come prepared. Pack a picnic lunch so you can spend an extended time at the falls. You can scramble up the rocks to the upper falls where it is quieter than the bottom. Be advised there are no toilets at the trailhead or at the falls so stop by the visitor center on the way to the trail head parking."
Janaka Ranatunga
"Dark Hollow Falls is a beautiful and easy hike, perfect for a short nature escape. The trail is not too challenging, making it great for families or casual hikers. There’s plenty of parking at the trailhead, and at least in the spring, it’s not hard to find a spot. At the end of the trail, you’re rewarded with a lovely view of the waterfall—peaceful, refreshing, and well worth the walk."
Olga Opara
"Beautiful waterfall! It was not hard hiking to the bottom of a waterfall and back. We did it with kids, 5, 8, 10, 11 years old. Kids did it with small breaks in a way back. Beautiful wives. It took us about 30 minutes to go all the down, and about 45 minutes go up. Enjoy!!!"
Alexander Shyshla
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dark Hollow Falls is located off Skyline Drive at milepost 42.5. The trailhead is clearly marked and directly across from the central visitor center.
Yes, there is a parking lot at the trailhead. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Yes, you can hike to Dark Hollow Falls from the Big Meadows area. Some reviews mention a loop hike from the visitor center, though it's not wheelchair accessible and can be moderately difficult.
The most direct route is via Skyline Drive. Be aware of the park entrance fee if you don't have a pass.
No, there are no restrooms at the trailhead or at the falls. It's advised to use the facilities at the visitor center before heading to the trail.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Dark Hollow Falls is located within Shenandoah National Park, which requires an entrance fee. You can pay per vehicle or purchase a park pass.
Shenandoah National Park is generally open year-round, but specific trail access and visitor center hours may vary seasonally. It's best to check the official park website for current information.
No, there is no separate fee for hiking the Dark Hollow Falls trail itself. The fee is for entry into Shenandoah National Park.
Tickets are for Shenandoah National Park entry, not specific trails. You can typically pay at the entrance station or purchase passes online in advance.
Visiting on a weekday or arriving very early in the morning on weekends can help you avoid the largest crowds.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Dark Hollow Falls is approximately 1.4 to 1.6 miles round trip, depending on the exact starting point and route taken.
The trail is considered moderate. It's a steep downhill on the way to the falls and a steep uphill on the way back, which can be challenging for some.
Yes, many families with young children find the hike manageable, though the uphill return requires some effort. Kids often enjoy playing near the falls.
Yes, visitors are allowed to play in the waterfall area. However, be aware that the water may not be very deep and can be crowded.
Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes or boots. Layers are recommended as the weather can change.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning offers softer light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the falls. Fall colors in mid-October also provide stunning photographic opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire waterfall and surrounding scenery. A tripod can help with long exposures to smooth the water.
Drones are generally prohibited in Shenandoah National Park to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the park's official regulations.
The main cascade is iconic, but exploring the rocks around it and looking for unique angles can yield great shots. The surrounding forest also offers beautiful compositions.
Try capturing the movement of the water with a slower shutter speed, or focus on the details of the moss-covered rocks and surrounding greenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
While the downhill is easy, be prepared for the uphill return, which might require some breaks for little legs. Tips for families: Start early to avoid the biggest crowds and secure parking.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Pack your own food and drinks to save money on dining.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Aim for early morning light to capture the best atmosphere and avoid harsh shadows. Consider bringing a tripod to achieve smooth water effects with longer exposures. A wide-angle lens will help capture the grandeur of the falls and the surrounding landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Dark Hollow Falls Trail Experience
However, the return trip is a significant uphill climb. Hikers should be prepared for this exertion, especially if they have young children or are not accustomed to steep inclines. The elevation gain is around 440-583 feet, making it a moderate challenge.
+1 Despite the climb, the reward of reaching the falls and the surrounding natural beauty makes it a worthwhile endeavor for most visitors. Some visitors suggest scrambling up the rocks at the bottom to find quieter spots and different perspectives of the falls. This can offer a more intimate experience away from the main gathering areas.
Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the trail can be slippery, and bring plenty of water. Best Times to Visit for Optimal Experience
Fall is a particularly magical time to visit Dark Hollow Falls. The changing leaves create a stunning backdrop, with mid-October often cited as the peak for fall foliage. The vibrant colors against the cascading water make for breathtaking views and excellent photographic opportunities.
+1While weekdays generally offer a less crowded experience than weekends, be aware that popular spots like Dark Hollow Falls can still attract visitors. If you're seeking solitude, aim for early mornings on weekdays during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall, outside of peak foliage).
Navigating Crowds and Etiquette
To find a less crowded experience, venture further down the trail or explore the upper sections by scrambling on the rocks.
While swimming is permitted, some reviewers mention that the water isn't very deep and can be crowded with people who stay for extended periods. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit