S. River Falls, Dry Run Falls and BONUS Blackberry Ice Cream Hike

This day trip is part of our series of hikes to all the named waterfalls in Shenandoah National Park and checks the boxes for two more waterfalls in the southern section of the Park. It also provides us with another opportunity to enjoy the fabulous blackberry ice cream at Shenandoah's Big Meadows Lodge. This will be a long day, so let's plan on getting dinner at the lodge.

South River Falls is one of the most frequently visited waterfalls in the entire Park because it is so picturesque and unusual. Dry Run Falls, in contrast, is off the beaten track and may be one of the Park's least visited waterfalls; it will require a short off-trail excursion (0.1 mile) but should be easy to locate by sound.

Length of this moderate hike is 7.2 miles, with about 1750 feet of cumulative elevation gain. Bring plenty of beverages, lunch, sturdy boots, bug spray, sunscreen, $5 for trip fee, $15 to reimburse your carpool driver, money for ice cream and dinner, plus a park pass if you have one. Also we will stop for a short pit stop at a Sheetz convenience store along the way to our trailhead for you to get last-minute provisions.

We are aiming for a prompt 8:30 a.m. departure from the East Falls Church Metro Kiss & Ride lot, because this hike is in the distant southern section of the park.

Please be aerobically fit because this hike, though not strenuous, is 7.2 miles long and has 1750 feet of the elevation gain. The trails are rocky and often muddy. If you RSVP, please be sure to reverse your RSVP status if you have to back out.

Important! Please click here to review our release form. When you RSVP to an event, you affirm that you have read and agree to the terms of the release. Everyone must RSVP on their own behalf.