Hiking in Virginia means a lot of different things to a lot of different people. If you’re someone who enjoys exploring mountain peaks and valley overlooks, there are countless trails at your disposal. Or perhaps you’re someone who loves otherworldly attractions, such as sand caves and boulder marble yards. Virginia has those, too. Today’s hike is bound to impress just about every outdoor enthusiast out there because it checks many boxes: scenery, woods, waterfalls, and dazzling streams. Here’s more on the Saint Mary’s Falls Trail and why you’re bound to enjoy your time hiking it.
Attention, all nature enthusiasts! Tucked away in the George Washington National Forest near Raphine, Virginia awaits a treasure trove of natural wonders just waiting to be discovered.
Ashley Lee / AllTrails
Saint Mary’s Wilderness encompasses over 9,000 acres and is considered to be the largest designated Virginia Wilderness on national forest land.
Over_Land Rover / Google
The Saint Mary’s Falls Trail is the perfect way to experience the best of what this area has to offer, most of which has to do with the Saint Mary’s River. The creek you’ll follow parallels this namesake river.
Kelly Fuentes / AllTrails
As you hike the trail, which measures six miles out-and-back, you’ll agree that the water is simply mesmerizing. The brilliant emerald hue combined with the sound of water rushing over rocks is one you won’t forget.
Gaelan Alexander / All Trails
The waterfall is the crown jewel of this beautiful hike and your reward for conquering a relatively rocky trail and several stream crossings.
E Hess / AllTrails
So the next time you’re looking to hike a trail with major payoffs, you won’t regret venturing into the Saint Mary’s Wilderness to hike the waterfall trail. Just be sure to wear appropriate shoes and bring lots of water!
Jules Carter / AllTrails
Have you hiked in Saint Mary’s Wilderness before? What was your experience like? We’d love to hear from you — join in on the conversation by leaving a comment below!
Ashley Lee / AllTrails
Over_Land Rover / Google
Kelly Fuentes / AllTrails
Gaelan Alexander / All Trails
E Hess / AllTrails
Jules Carter / AllTrails
Looking for more exciting trails to try out this season? Check out our list of the best hiking trails in Virginia.
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Address: Saint Mary’s Wilderness, Raphine, VA 24472, USA
