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South River Falls
Choose an out-and-back or loop hike to the scenic South River Falls observation point.
Plan Around South River Falls
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Use this detail page to confirm that the stop is worth it, then carry that decision into a trip draft while the park context is still fresh.
South River Falls Details
South River Falls can be seen via a 2.6 mile out-and-back hike along the blue-blazed South River Falls Trail. Simply follow the trail from the picnic grounds at South River Overlook (mile 62.7 on Skyline Drive) and stay straight when the trail crosses the Appalachian Trail. Check out the 83-foot falls from the stone-walled observation point, then retrace your steps back to the trailhead. Alternatively, continue past the observation point to the trail post and go left, following yellow blazes. At the next trail post, go left and ascend to the intersection with the Appalachian Trail with its white blazes. Continue south on the AT back to the South River Falls Trail, where you'll take a right to go back to the trailhead. This part of the park is protecting from wind, and its east-facing slopes receive plenty of rain. This moist habitat is known as Appalachian Rich Cove Forest, unique to this part of the world. It's a great place to bird-watch.
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
2.6 miles
Estimated time
1.75 hours
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around South River Falls
Compare nearby parks around South River Falls when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around South River Falls
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond South River Falls while the map context is still fresh.
0.2 mi away
South River
The South River Overlook and Picnic Grounds are open year-round and offer a great place to rest.
2.3 mi away
Swift Run Gap Entrance Station
The Swift Run Gap Entrance Station offers a central entrance to the park close to Elkton, Va.
4.4 mi away
Lewis Mountain
Lewis Mountain is a centrally located campground, picnic area, and camp store.
5.6 mi away
Bearfence Mountain
A part-hike, part-scramble to the rocky summit of Bearfence Mountain rewards you with breathtaking 360 views; it's a must-see.
7.9 mi away
Simmons Gap
Simmons Gap, at mile marker 73.2, has a ranger station and provides access to a 1.6-mile round-trip hike.
