Virginia’s landscape lends itself to some pretty spectacular trails. Winding through mountains, valleys, and even the coastline, these trails aren’t hard to come by, thanks to our extensive park system. And fortunately, there are plenty of easy-to-access hikes where you won’t have to break too much of a sweat. In fact, one of the most beloved trails in the state is just 2 miles total and leads hikers to a beautiful waterfall and wooded forests. Here’s more on Scott’s Run Nature Hike, an easy waterfall hike in Virginia with plenty of scenery:
Scott’s Run Nature Preserve is a beautiful piece of land that offers a refreshing escape from the nearby bustle of Washington DC.
Scott Gawne/flickr
Just next door to Great Falls National Park, the preserve offers an equally beautiful landscape without the crowds or entrance fee.
callmeknight/TripAdvisor The area is made up of several wooded hiking trails which feature the scenic Potomac River. So hikers can choose how long they wish to remain on the trail and modify accordingly.
One of the most scenic ways to experience Scott’s Run is a quick 2.2 mile jaunt which follows a loop.
Fritz Flohr Reynolds/flickr Along the way, you’ll witness plenty of rare plants and, during warm months, gorgeous wildflowers.
After you begin the trail, you’ll want to cross over Scott’s Run.
callmeknight/TripAdvisor The turn towards the concrete crossing posts will be in approximately .3 miles. There’s a possibility of continuing straight (and not crossing the run), but this is a much more difficult path which leads straight to the falls.
Now as you continue on, keep your eyes out for the Burling House Ruins as you head towards the falls.
Agog84/TripAdvisor
After having crossed the run, the ruins will be visible after an uphill walk of approximately .1 mile. At this point, you’ll want to make a left turn downhill where Scott’s run meets the river at the falls.
dw_ross/flickr
Then you’ll follow the trail along the river bank, which eventually leads to a perfect picnic spot.
callmeknight/TripAdvisor As you start along the river bank trail, you’ll pass two other small trails that both lead uphill to the Burling House Ruins in case you’d like to examine them closer. The picnic spot you’ll reach is a point that jetties out to the river about 60 feet, offering a beautiful and expansive view of the Potomac.
Follow the trail that will lead you uphill between two ridges. You’ll encounter several trail junctions for the remainder of the hike.
jehenson81 / TripAdvisor Of course, there’s no wrong turn to take at any of these junctions (they’ll lead to unique points along the preserve) but in order to complete the loop, you’ll want to follow this specific route.
Even if you’re not up for the traditional hiking experience, a trip to Scott’s Run will be a memorable one.
Scott Gawne/flickr
Joseph M./TripAdvisor No matter the season, there will be plenty of natural beauty to marvel at, from the frozen falls of winter to the gorgeous blossoms of spring. What’s not to love about this easy waterfall hike in Virginia?
Scott’s Run Nature Preserve can be found at 7400 Georgetown Pike, McLean VA 22102. Have you completed this beautiful and easy waterfall hike in Virginia? Be sure to share your experience there with us!
Scott Gawne/flickr
callmeknight/TripAdvisor
The area is made up of several wooded hiking trails which feature the scenic Potomac River. So hikers can choose how long they wish to remain on the trail and modify accordingly.
Fritz Flohr Reynolds/flickr
Along the way, you’ll witness plenty of rare plants and, during warm months, gorgeous wildflowers.
The turn towards the concrete crossing posts will be in approximately .3 miles. There’s a possibility of continuing straight (and not crossing the run), but this is a much more difficult path which leads straight to the falls.
Agog84/TripAdvisor
dw_ross/flickr
As you start along the river bank trail, you’ll pass two other small trails that both lead uphill to the Burling House Ruins in case you’d like to examine them closer. The picnic spot you’ll reach is a point that jetties out to the river about 60 feet, offering a beautiful and expansive view of the Potomac.
jehenson81 / TripAdvisor
Of course, there’s no wrong turn to take at any of these junctions (they’ll lead to unique points along the preserve) but in order to complete the loop, you’ll want to follow this specific route.
Joseph M./TripAdvisor
No matter the season, there will be plenty of natural beauty to marvel at, from the frozen falls of winter to the gorgeous blossoms of spring. What’s not to love about this easy waterfall hike in Virginia?
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Scott’s Run Nature Preserve, 7400 VA-193, McLean, VA 22102, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
easy waterfall hike in virginia November 06, 2020 Beth C. What is the tallest waterfall in Virginia? Virginia is home to an impressive amount of waterfalls, ranging from cascades to gorges to free-falling waterfalls. The tallest waterfall in Virginia is actually a series of cascades known as Crabtree Falls. In fact, Crabtree Falls is considered to be the tallest series of cascading falls east of the Mississippi River. All in all, the total waterfall height is 1,200 feet! If you have the chance to visit, you can even climb alongside the falls on the Crabtree Falls Trail, which is a challenging yet rewarding hike in Virginia. Continue along this trail and you’ll even meet up with the famous Appalachian Trail. Curious to learn more about Crabtree Falls, the tallest waterfall in Virginia? Read our previous article here. Does Virginia have any secret waterfalls? Most of Virginia’s most famous waterfalls are located in Shenandoah National Park and the surrounding area. However, if you’re in search of a secret waterfall, you’ll be traveling to Dayton, Virginia, where you’ll discover Hidden Rocks Waterfall. This aptly-named spot features a wonderfully secluded trail lined with mountain laurel. Keep in mind that the waterfall is relatively small compared to others in the state; however, there’s something undeniably mystical about the fact that it’s one of the state’s best-kept secrets. Another of Virginia’s hidden waterfalls – although it’s no so much a secret – is Devil’s Bathtub. This small falls and swimming hole is a mesmerizing shade of blue and has thus become one of the most sought-after hidden gems in Virginia. What are the best road trips to take in Virginia? There are so many incredible ways to experience Virginia, and one of the best is by embarking on a good ol’ fashioned road trip. There are countless scenic drives and byways in the Old Dominion, and it’s not hard to piece together a memorable road trip. If you’re curious to experience some of the coolest waterfalls in Virginia, you might consider taking the Ultimate Waterfall Road Trip Through Virginia – you won’t be disappointed! Or, if you prefer natural wonders, we’ve also put together a Hidden Gems Road Trip Through Virginia. Either way, fill up your tank, and don’t forget to pack your camera!
The OIYS Visitor Center
easy waterfall hike in virginia
November 06, 2020
Beth C.
What is the tallest waterfall in Virginia? Virginia is home to an impressive amount of waterfalls, ranging from cascades to gorges to free-falling waterfalls. The tallest waterfall in Virginia is actually a series of cascades known as Crabtree Falls. In fact, Crabtree Falls is considered to be the tallest series of cascading falls east of the Mississippi River. All in all, the total waterfall height is 1,200 feet! If you have the chance to visit, you can even climb alongside the falls on the Crabtree Falls Trail, which is a challenging yet rewarding hike in Virginia. Continue along this trail and you’ll even meet up with the famous Appalachian Trail. Curious to learn more about Crabtree Falls, the tallest waterfall in Virginia? Read our previous article here. Does Virginia have any secret waterfalls? Most of Virginia’s most famous waterfalls are located in Shenandoah National Park and the surrounding area. However, if you’re in search of a secret waterfall, you’ll be traveling to Dayton, Virginia, where you’ll discover Hidden Rocks Waterfall. This aptly-named spot features a wonderfully secluded trail lined with mountain laurel. Keep in mind that the waterfall is relatively small compared to others in the state; however, there’s something undeniably mystical about the fact that it’s one of the state’s best-kept secrets. Another of Virginia’s hidden waterfalls – although it’s no so much a secret – is Devil’s Bathtub. This small falls and swimming hole is a mesmerizing shade of blue and has thus become one of the most sought-after hidden gems in Virginia. What are the best road trips to take in Virginia? There are so many incredible ways to experience Virginia, and one of the best is by embarking on a good ol’ fashioned road trip. There are countless scenic drives and byways in the Old Dominion, and it’s not hard to piece together a memorable road trip. If you’re curious to experience some of the coolest waterfalls in Virginia, you might consider taking the Ultimate Waterfall Road Trip Through Virginia – you won’t be disappointed! Or, if you prefer natural wonders, we’ve also put together a Hidden Gems Road Trip Through Virginia. Either way, fill up your tank, and don’t forget to pack your camera!
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
Virginia is home to an impressive amount of waterfalls, ranging from cascades to gorges to free-falling waterfalls. The tallest waterfall in Virginia is actually a series of cascades known as Crabtree Falls. In fact, Crabtree Falls is considered to be the tallest series of cascading falls east of the Mississippi River. All in all, the total waterfall height is 1,200 feet! If you have the chance to visit, you can even climb alongside the falls on the Crabtree Falls Trail, which is a challenging yet rewarding hike in Virginia. Continue along this trail and you’ll even meet up with the famous Appalachian Trail. Curious to learn more about Crabtree Falls, the tallest waterfall in Virginia? Read our previous article here.
Does Virginia have any secret waterfalls?
Most of Virginia’s most famous waterfalls are located in Shenandoah National Park and the surrounding area. However, if you’re in search of a secret waterfall, you’ll be traveling to Dayton, Virginia, where you’ll discover Hidden Rocks Waterfall. This aptly-named spot features a wonderfully secluded trail lined with mountain laurel. Keep in mind that the waterfall is relatively small compared to others in the state; however, there’s something undeniably mystical about the fact that it’s one of the state’s best-kept secrets. Another of Virginia’s hidden waterfalls – although it’s no so much a secret – is Devil’s Bathtub. This small falls and swimming hole is a mesmerizing shade of blue and has thus become one of the most sought-after hidden gems in Virginia.
What are the best road trips to take in Virginia?
There are so many incredible ways to experience Virginia, and one of the best is by embarking on a good ol’ fashioned road trip. There are countless scenic drives and byways in the Old Dominion, and it’s not hard to piece together a memorable road trip. If you’re curious to experience some of the coolest waterfalls in Virginia, you might consider taking the Ultimate Waterfall Road Trip Through Virginia – you won’t be disappointed! Or, if you prefer natural wonders, we’ve also put together a Hidden Gems Road Trip Through Virginia. Either way, fill up your tank, and don’t forget to pack your camera!
