Dark Hollow Falls
A stunning multi-tiered waterfall in Shenandoah National Park, accessible via a moderate 1.4-mile hike with a steep uphill return.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Dark Hollow Falls
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning multi-tiered waterfall in Shenandoah National Park, accessible via a moderate 1.4-mile hike with a steep uphill return.
"Absolutely stunning waterfall with a short but challenging uphill hike back."
🎯 Arrive Before 9 AM
The small parking lot fills up fast! Go early to secure a spot and enjoy a more peaceful hike.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail is rocky and steep, especially on the return. Good hiking boots are essential for safety and comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dark Hollow Falls
Shenandoah National Park
A stunning multi-tiered waterfall cascading down rocks, offering a rewarding sight after a moderate hike.
The Uphill Return
Dark Hollow Falls Trail
The challenging but rewarding steep climb back up from the falls provides a good workout and scenic views.
Stream-Side Exploration
Along Dark Hollow Falls Trail
Multiple points along the trail allow you to get close to the clear, cold stream and touch the water.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Gear Up for the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Before 9 AM
The small parking lot fills up fast! Go early to secure a spot and enjoy a more peaceful hike. +1
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail is rocky and steep, especially on the return. Good hiking boots are essential for safety and comfort.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
The uphill return can be strenuous. Stay hydrated and pack snacks, especially during warmer months.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The falls are picturesque, but be cautious on slippery rocks if venturing off-trail for photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Before 9 AM
The small parking lot fills up fast! Go early to secure a spot and enjoy a more peaceful hike. +1
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail is rocky and steep, especially on the return. Good hiking boots are essential for safety and comfort.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
The uphill return can be strenuous. Stay hydrated and pack snacks, especially during warmer months.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The falls are picturesque, but be cautious on slippery rocks if venturing off-trail for photos.
🚫 No Dogs Allowed
Leave your furry friends at home; dogs are not permitted on the Dark Hollow Falls Trail.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Dark Hollow Falls for its stunning beauty and rewarding waterfall views, especially considering the relatively short hike. The clear, cold water and the scenic stream are highlights. However, many note the challenging, steep uphill return and the limited, quickly filling parking, advising early arrival and sturdy footwear.
"An absolutely stunning waterfall with a short but challenging uphill hike back to the trail head. Be sure to wear good hiking boots but bring water shoes if you want to take a dip in the waterfall. In the warmer months bring plenty of water as the uphill can be tough. A great workout and well worth the effort. Take your time and breaks if you need them!"
Kate Summers
"Went on a very misty day. This trail was absolutely gorgeous with all the mist. Wasn't too slippery and only moderately muddy. Not long at all to walk from the parking area to this waterfall, but it is on the steeper side. Passed by people pretty frequently on the trail. Definitely less people past this waterfall. And for the moderate difficulty for the trail, pretty well maintained."
Mary
"It was a great view with moderate amount of water. The trek was not too tough, about 1.5 miles round trip. There are multiple points along the hike where you can stop to touch the water and it's super clear (and cold 🥶). Overall 10/10 recommended."
Vignesh Bharadwaj
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dark Hollow Falls is located in Shenandoah National Park, off Skyline Drive at milepost 42.5. The trailhead is clearly marked. The closest parking area is the Dark Hollow Falls parking area, located at milepost 50.7 in the Central District, just north of Big Meadows.
Yes, there is a small parking lot at the trailhead. However, it fills up very quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Absolutely! Dark Hollow Falls is directly accessible from Skyline Drive. The trailhead is conveniently located off the scenic drive.
The most direct route is via the Dark Hollow Falls Trail, which is about 1.4 to 1.6 miles roundtrip. It's a moderate hike with a steep uphill return. 
While the Dark Hollow Falls Trail is the primary access, other trails in Shenandoah National Park can connect to the area, though they may be longer and more complex. For a direct experience, stick to the main trail.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Dark Hollow Falls is located within Shenandoah National Park, which requires an entrance fee. You'll need to pay the park's admission fee to access the trailhead and falls.
Shenandoah National Park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, the Dark Hollow Falls Trail is best enjoyed during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
Entrance fees vary by vehicle type and duration of stay. Check the official Shenandoah National Park website for the most current pricing information.
You do not book tickets specifically for Dark Hollow Falls. The fee is for entry into Shenandoah National Park. It's recommended to purchase your park pass upon arrival or online in advance if available.
Shenandoah National Park may offer discounts for certain groups, such as seniors or those with national park passes. Check the park's official website for details on passes and discounts.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Dark Hollow Falls hike is generally considered moderate. It's a short 1.4 to 1.6-mile roundtrip, but features a steep and rocky uphill return, which can be challenging for some.
Most visitors complete the hike in about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on their pace and how much time they spend at the falls.
Yes, you can take a dip in the pools at the base of the falls, especially during warmer months. The water is clear but can be quite cold.
No, the Dark Hollow Falls trail is not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs due to its steep, rocky, and uneven terrain.
Dark Hollow Falls is beautiful year-round. Autumn offers stunning fall foliage, while spring and summer provide lush greenery and warmer temperatures for swimming.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The base of the falls offers classic shots. For unique perspectives, carefully venture onto sturdy rocks in the stream, but be mindful of slippery surfaces.
For silky smooth water, use a slower shutter speed. A tripod is highly recommended to keep your camera steady. Consider a polarizing filter to reduce glare.
Exercise caution when getting close to the water. Rocks can be slippery, especially after rain. Always prioritize safety over the perfect shot.
Early morning light can be beautiful and less harsh. Midday sun can create strong contrasts, but can also highlight the mist around the falls.
A tripod, extra batteries, lens cleaning cloth, and a waterproof bag for your gear are advisable, especially if you plan to get close to the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Parents recommend keeping a close eye on children, especially near the water. The opportunity to dip feet in the cool stream is a definite highlight for kids. It's crucial to arrive early to avoid crowds and ensure parking. Pack plenty of water and snacks, and be prepared for the uphill climb back. While not entirely stroller-friendly, the manageable length makes it a feasible adventure for families looking for a beautiful natural reward.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Couples
The scenic beauty of the falls and the surrounding forest provides a perfect backdrop for a peaceful hike or a romantic outing. To maximize the experience, aim for an early morning visit to enjoy the tranquility and capture stunning photos without the hustle of crowds.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
To achieve those sought-after silky water effects, utilize a slow shutter speed and a tripod. Be mindful of the slippery rocks when seeking unique angles near the water, and always prioritize safety. Consider visiting during the golden hours of early morning for soft, beautiful light. The mist that often hangs around the falls can add a dramatic element to your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Dark Hollow Falls Trail Experience
+1As you descend, the trail follows a beautiful stream, providing numerous opportunities to get close to the water. The sound of the cascading water grows louder as you approach the main falls. The falls themselves are a multi-tiered spectacle, with water tumbling over rocks into clear pools below. This makes it a fantastic spot for photography and a refreshing place to cool off during warmer months.
Parking at the trailhead is limited and tends to fill up very quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Visitors are strongly advised to arrive early in the morning, ideally before 9 AM, to secure a parking spot and avoid the largest crowds.
Best Times to Visit for Optimal Experience
Autumn is a particularly magical time to visit, with the surrounding foliage transforming into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. The fall colors create a stunning backdrop for the waterfall, making it a favorite for photographers and nature lovers.
+1 However, be prepared for increased visitor numbers during this popular season. For those seeking a quieter experience, weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) can also offer a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer visitors compared to the peak summer months.
Photography at Dark Hollow Falls
When venturing close to the water for different angles, safety is paramount. The rocks can be very slippery, particularly after rain or in misty conditions. Redditors advise caution and suggest finding stable rocks to stand on.
Consider visiting during the early morning for softer light and fewer people, which can make for a more relaxed photography session. Midday sun can be harsh, but it can also create dramatic lighting and highlight the mist rising from the falls.
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