Cascades Falls
A stunning 66-foot waterfall reached via a scenic 4-mile loop hike through lush forests and along a babbling creek.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Budding growth and fewer crowds
Cascades Falls
Best Time
Budding growth and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 66-foot waterfall reached via a scenic 4-mile loop hike through lush forests and along a babbling creek.
"The beauty of the fall is so mesmerizing. "
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Good hiking shoes with grip are essential for the rocky, sometimes wet trails.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on the 4-mile hike, especially during warmer months.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cascades Falls
End of the trail
A breathtaking 66-foot waterfall, the stunning reward after a scenic hike.
Lower Trail Scenery
Along Little Stony Creek
Follows the creek with constant views of rapids, mossy rocks, and smaller cascades.
Upper Trail Path
Above the creek
A wider, less rocky path offering a gentler climb and occasional forest views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Choice Matters
Parking & Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Good hiking shoes with grip are essential for the rocky, sometimes wet trails.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on the 4-mile hike, especially during warmer months.
💰 Parking Fee
There's a $3 parking fee. Bring cash or card, as machines can be down. +1
⬆️ Lower Trail Up, Upper Trail Back
Enjoy the scenic creek views going up, and opt for the easier Upper Trail descent.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Good hiking shoes with grip are essential for the rocky, sometimes wet trails.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on the 4-mile hike, especially during warmer months.
💰 Parking Fee
There's a $3 parking fee. Bring cash or card, as machines can be down. +1
⬆️ Lower Trail Up, Upper Trail Back
Enjoy the scenic creek views going up, and opt for the easier Upper Trail descent.
🗑️ Leave No Trace
Pack out all trash to keep this beautiful spot pristine.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of Cascades Falls and the scenic 4-mile hike, with many praising the well-maintained trails and the rewarding waterfall payoff. Some note issues with graffiti and trash, urging visitors to practice Leave No Trace principles.
"The Cascade Falls Trail, located in the Jefferson National Forest near Pembroke, is an absolute must-do for any nature lover in Virginia. It's a fantastic 4-mile loop (round-trip) that perfectly balances accessibility with breathtaking natural beauty.
The Trail Options: You can choose your adventure with two main paths forming the loop:
The Lower Trail: This is the more popular and highly scenic route. It closely follows the Little Stony Creek, offering constant views of smaller cascades, rapids, and beautiful moss-covered boulders. It features stone steps, wooden walkways, and bridges that make you feel truly immersed in the gorge.
The Upper Trail: Generally wider and less rocky, this trail offers a more continuous, gentle climb through the forest above the creek, providing occasional aerial views. Many hikers recommend taking the Lower Trail up to the falls for the best views and the Upper Trail back for an easier descent."
Kurtis Vandevender
"Cascade Falls in Pembroke is an excellent destination with stunning nature and a perfect finish at the beautiful waterfall. The trails are well-maintained and clearly marked. The route offers a lower path that ranges from moderate to strenuous, and an upper path that is easy. If you are a confident hiker, the lower path to the falls and the upper path on the way back is recommended. If mobility is limited, the upper path is the better choice.
We completed the 4-mile loop in three hours, including a break at the waterfall. Our children, aged 5 and 8, managed the lower path without issues. Highly recommended."
Jannick Korsholm
"I am rarely speechless, but coming around the corner the giant boulder to an opening with the waterfall in the background was awe inspiring. The trails were incredible and offered different skill & ability levels. My only complaint is the graffiti and discarded trash. I'm not blaming the park system, especially considering the government shutdown. The blame holy goes to the person who tossed the coke bottle, fizzy water can, potato chip bag, etc. on the ground. Otherwise this place is Paradise!"
Ann Marie Abrahamsen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cascades Falls is located at 2068 Cascades Dr, Pembroke, VA. It's approximately 1 hour from Roanoke. The trailhead is well-marked within the Jefferson National Forest.
Public transport options are very limited for reaching Cascades Falls. It's best to drive your own vehicle or arrange a ride.
The main trails are the Lower Trail, which follows the creek and is more scenic but can be rocky, and the Upper Trail, which is wider and less strenuous. Many recommend taking the Lower Trail to the falls and the Upper Trail back.
Pembroke, VA is the closest town. Blacksburg and Radford are also nearby options for accommodation and amenities.
Absolutely! Cascades Falls is a perfect day trip destination, offering a rewarding 4-mile hike with a stunning waterfall payoff. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a $3 parking fee per vehicle. It's recommended to bring cash, as the card machine may not always be operational. +2
The park is generally open from sunrise to sunset, allowing ample time for hiking and enjoying the scenery.
No, advance booking is not required for Cascades Falls. You pay the parking fee upon arrival.
No specific hiking permits are required for the main Cascades Falls trail, but always check for any temporary forest service advisories.
During government shutdowns, access and maintenance can be affected. It's advisable to check local conditions and advisories before visiting.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is approximately a 4-mile round trip, often described as a loop. +3
The hike is generally considered easy to moderate. The Lower Trail can be more strenuous due to rocks and steps, while the Upper Trail is easier.
Yes, children can hike to Cascades Falls. Families with young children have successfully completed the trail.
Swimming is generally not advisable at Cascades Falls due to strong currents and rocky terrain.
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, water, snacks, and consider hiking poles for stability. A flashlight might be useful if staying late.
📸 📸 Photography
The base of the waterfall offers dramatic shots. The Lower Trail provides numerous opportunities to capture the creek's cascades and mossy rocks.
Drone usage may be restricted in national forests. Always check current regulations before flying a drone.
Morning light can be beautiful, but the waterfall is impressive throughout the day. Consider overcast days for softer light.
Yes, the trail itself is very photogenic with its wooden bridges, stone steps, and the surrounding lush forest.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the waterfall and surrounding landscape. A tripod can help with long exposures of the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Adventurers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Cascades Falls Trails
The Upper Trail, in contrast, provides a more straightforward hiking experience. It's generally wider and less rocky, offering a gentler, more continuous climb through the dense forest canopy that sits above the creek. While it doesn't offer the same intimate creek-side views as the Lower Trail, it does provide occasional elevated glimpses of the surrounding landscape. Many visitors find that taking the Lower Trail up to the falls allows them to fully appreciate the scenic beauty, and then returning via the Upper Trail offers a more relaxed descent.
For those with mobility concerns, the Upper Trail is the recommended option. Regardless of your choice, both trails are well-maintained and clearly marked, ensuring a safe and enjoyable hike.
The Majestic Cascades Falls
While the falls are the main attraction, the journey to reach them is equally enchanting. The trail winds through a vibrant forest, with the sounds of the creek accompanying you. You'll encounter smaller cascades and rapids along the way, adding to the natural spectacle.
It's important to note that while the area is beautiful, visitors are urged to practice Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out everything you pack in, including all trash, to help preserve the natural beauty for future visitors.
Best Times to Visit Cascades Falls
Autumn transforms the area into a spectacular display of fall foliage. The vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the changing leaves against the backdrop of the falls and forest make for breathtaking scenery. This is a popular time, so expect more visitors, especially on weekends.
For those seeking fewer crowds, weekday mornings are ideal. You can enjoy the tranquility of the falls and trails with minimal disruption.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit