Overall Run Falls Shenandoah National Park Virginia
Discover Shenandoah's tallest waterfall, Overall Run Falls, offering stunning cascades and refreshing swimming holes amidst lush Virginia wilderness.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
High water flow, lush greenery
Overall Run Falls Shenandoah National Park Virginia
Best Time
High water flow, lush greenery
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Shenandoah's tallest waterfall, Overall Run Falls, offering stunning cascades and refreshing swimming holes amidst lush Virginia wilderness.
"The tallest & Clearest Waterfall in Shenandoah Virginia! It's absolutely beautiful! Mesmerizing!"
Wear waterproof boots! :athletic_shoe:
Trails can get very muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof footwear is essential for a comfortable hike.
Check water levels first :droplet:
For the most dramatic falls, visit after significant rainfall. Spring is generally the best season.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Overall Run Falls
Shenandoah National Park
The tallest waterfall in Shenandoah, plunging 93 feet. A must-see for its sheer scale and beauty.
Natural Swimming Holes
Near White Oak Canyon
Cool off in refreshing natural pools along the trail, perfect for a summer dip.
Scenic Overlooks
Various points along the trail
Enjoy breathtaking valley views, especially on the descent and ascent of certain trails.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Falls
Parking & Trail Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear waterproof boots! :athletic_shoe:
Trails can get very muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof footwear is essential for a comfortable hike.
Check water levels first :droplet:
For the most dramatic falls, visit after significant rainfall. Spring is generally the best season.
Consider the Thompson Hollow route :hiking_boot:
A shorter, 2.1-mile option, though often muddier. Great for a quick dip and waterfall view.
Wildlife spotting is common :deer:
Keep an eye out for deer, foxes, and other animals, especially during dawn and dusk. Drive slowly!
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear waterproof boots! :athletic_shoe:
Trails can get very muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof footwear is essential for a comfortable hike.
Check water levels first :droplet:
For the most dramatic falls, visit after significant rainfall. Spring is generally the best season.
Consider the Thompson Hollow route :hiking_boot:
A shorter, 2.1-mile option, though often muddier. Great for a quick dip and waterfall view.
Wildlife spotting is common :deer:
Keep an eye out for deer, foxes, and other animals, especially during dawn and dusk. Drive slowly!
Pack snacks and water :water_wave:
While some trails are short, longer loops require sustenance. Enjoy a snack with a view!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the impressive height of Overall Run Falls and the refreshing swimming holes, calling it a 'hidden gem.' While some found the trails muddy and water crossings challenging, the scenic beauty and potential for wildlife sightings make it a worthwhile adventure for many.
"We did a nine-mile loop from Thompson Hollow Trailhead, down and around onto Beecher Ridge, then up to Matthew's Arm trail and down the Overall/Tuscarora trail. It rained heavily the day before so the "easy" water crossings were anything but. There's at least five major water crossings on this route, and two were impossible to ford without getting your feet wet. The falls themselves are beautiful. Great valley views on the way down."
Joel Keralis
"Accessed from Matthew's Arm Campground parking lot. It was about 5.5 miles round trip loop"
Stacey
"I got some cool shots of Overall Run Falls, it was a short but really cool hike! Ran into a variety of fauna & flora, the waterfall was beautiful. I did a 6.5 mile hike. Going in the trail was mostly downhill and coming back was a little the fun part lol. I didn’t see anyone in the trail but two camping tents. The drive back in the evening was beautiful!!! Drive slow! You’ll get to see lots of wild animals crossing the road! I saw a raccoon, fox, deer with huge horns and an armadillo (I didn’t know there were armadillos!) this is definitely a fun and easy trail."
Rachel Erotika
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Overall Run Falls can be accessed via multiple trailheads within and around Shenandoah National Park. The most popular access points include the Mathews Arm Campground parking area (for a longer loop to the main falls) and the Thompson Hollow Trailhead (for a shorter, direct route). 
Parking is available at the Mathews Arm Campground lot, but it fills up quickly, especially on weekends. The Thompson Hollow trailhead also offers parking, though it's more limited.
Yes, the Thompson Hollow Trailhead provides access to Overall Run Falls without needing to enter the main park area, making it a free option if you don't have a National Park Pass.
If using the Mathews Arm Campground access, navigate to Skyline Drive and look for the campground entrance. For Thompson Hollow, it's located near Front Royal, VA. Always check park advisories for road closures.
Currently, there are no dedicated shuttle services directly to the Overall Run Falls trailheads. Visitors typically drive their own vehicles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
If you access Overall Run Falls from within Shenandoah National Park (e.g., via Mathews Arm Campground), you will need to pay the park entrance fee or have a valid National Park Pass. Accessing via Thompson Hollow is generally free.
The entrance fee for Shenandoah National Park is typically around $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass, unless you possess an annual National Park Pass.
Parking at the Mathews Arm Campground lot is included with your park entrance fee. Parking at the Thompson Hollow trailhead is generally free.
Shenandoah National Park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, individual trail access and campground facilities may have specific hours or seasonal closures.
While you can't book specific timed entry tickets for Shenandoah National Park in advance, you can purchase your park pass online or at any park entrance station.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
For the tallest view of Overall Run Falls (93 feet), the loop from Mathews Arm Campground is recommended, approximately 5.1 miles round trip. The Thompson Hollow trail is shorter (2.1 miles) but offers a different perspective.
The difficulty varies by route. The Thompson Hollow trail is considered moderate with some muddy sections. The loop from Mathews Arm Campground can be more challenging with water crossings and elevation changes.
Yes, there are natural swimming holes along the trails, particularly near White Oak Canyon and at the base of some smaller falls. The main Overall Run Falls are not typically swimmable due to their height and steepness.
Visitors often report seeing deer, foxes, raccoons, and various bird species. Keep an eye out, especially during dawn and dusk.
Yes, dogs are allowed on trails in Shenandoah National Park and at Overall Run Falls, provided they are kept on a leash.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The overlook near the top of Overall Run Falls offers a stunning view of the main cascade. The base of the falls and surrounding rock formations also provide great photo opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon light can provide softer, more flattering light for waterfall photography. Midday sun can be harsh.
A tripod is highly recommended for capturing smooth water effects (long exposures) and for shooting in lower light conditions.
The main viewpoint looking down on the 93-foot cascade is a must. Explore the surrounding trails for different angles and smaller falls.
Experiment with aperture to control depth of field and shutter speed to achieve desired water motion. A lower ISO is generally preferred for cleaner images.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While it can be muddy, the payoff of natural pools is a big hit. Ensure kids wear appropriate footwear and are supervised closely near water. The Mathews Arm Campground loop is longer and more challenging, so consider it for families with older, more experienced hikers. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for potential wildlife sightings, which can be an exciting educational opportunity for kids. The drive along Skyline Drive also offers opportunities for short stops at overlooks, breaking up the journey.
💰 Budget Travelers
You'll still get to see a beautiful waterfall and enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pools. If you plan to explore more of Shenandoah National Park, consider purchasing an annual National Park Pass if you anticipate visiting multiple parks within a year, as this can be more cost-effective than paying individual entrance fees. Always pack your own food and drinks to save money on dining expenses within the park.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Bring a tripod to achieve silky smooth water effects with long exposures, and experiment with different shutter speeds to control the water's appearance. Consider visiting during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the best natural light. The surrounding forest also provides opportunities for capturing intimate nature shots. Don't forget to explore the smaller falls and swimming holes for diverse photographic subjects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails to Overall Run Falls
For a shorter and more direct experience, the Thompson Hollow Trail is a popular choice. This out-and-back trail is about 2.1 miles round trip and is known for being quite muddy, particularly during the ascent. Despite the mud, many find the refreshing plunge into the natural swimming holes at the end to be a rewarding experience.
When planning your hike, always check recent trail conditions. Heavy rainfall can make water crossings challenging and trails slick. Wearing waterproof hiking boots is highly recommended, regardless of the chosen route.
The Majesty of Shenandoah's Tallest Waterfall
While the main falls are a sight to behold, the surrounding area also offers smaller, cascading falls and serene swimming holes. These natural pools provide a perfect opportunity to cool off on a warm day.
Many visitors describe the experience as peaceful and tranquil, offering a chance to connect with nature. The sound of the falling water and the fresh mountain air contribute to the overall serene atmosphere.
Wildlife Encounters and Scenic Drives
Beyond the trails, the scenic drive along Skyline Drive is an integral part of the Shenandoah experience. This iconic road offers numerous overlooks with panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley. Driving slowly and cautiously, particularly in the evening, can lead to unexpected wildlife encounters right by the roadside.
Remember to maintain a safe distance from all wildlife and never feed them. The park's diverse ecosystem supports a rich variety of flora and fauna, making every visit a potential discovery.
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