AMC 20s–40s: Whiteoak Canyon Waterfalls & Swimming Holes Adventure

Join the AMC 20s–40s group for one of Shenandoah National Park's most spectacular summer hikes! Whiteoak Canyon features dozens of beautiful cascades and waterfalls, along with several refreshing swimming holes, making it the perfect escape from the July heat. Don't forget to bring your swimsuit!

We will meet at Vienna Metro Station at 8:00 AM and carpool to the trailhead. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes. If you are willing to drive, please post in the comments. Carpooling helps reduce our environmental impact and is a great way to meet fellow hikers.

Trail Facts

• Difficulty: Difficult

• Distance: 8.3 miles

• Estimated Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

• Elevation Gain: 2,329 feet

• Park Entrance Fee: Shenandoah National Park pass required ($30 per vehicle)

• Meeting Location: Vienna Metro Station

• Trailhead Coordinates: 38.539495, -78.349128

AllTrails Map:

"https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/white-oak-canyon-and-cedar-run-trail-loop?u=i&sh=rak641" (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/white-oak-canyon-and-cedar-run-trail-loop?u=i&sh=rak641)

Trail Description

This route combines the Whiteoak Canyon Trail and Cedar Run Trail to create a challenging and rewarding loop featuring numerous waterfalls, cascades, swimming holes, and scenic viewpoints. Expect several stream crossings and a sustained climb, but the stunning scenery more than rewards the effort.
Although rated difficult, our waterfall and swimming breaks make the hike feel much more manageable.

What to Bring

• Plenty of water (at least 2–3 liters recommended)

• Electrolytes (such as sports drinks or electrolyte tablets)

• Lunch and snacks

• Swimsuit and towel

• Hiking shoes with good traction

• Sunscreen and insect repellent

• Trekking poles (optional but helpful)

Optional Dinner

If there is interest, we'll stop at a nearby winery or farm brewery on the way back to relax, enjoy some food and drinks, and celebrate a great day on the trail.

Park Entrance Fee

Shenandoah National Park charges an entrance fee. An annual pass is also available. For more information, visit:

"https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/fees.htm" (https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/fees.htm)

About the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC)

Founded in 1876, the Appalachian Mountain Club is the nation's oldest outdoor recreation and conservation organization. AMC promotes responsible outdoor recreation, conservation, and environmental stewardship while building community through activities such as hiking, backpacking, paddling, cycling, skiing, volunteering, and educational programs.