Day Trips from Alexandria
← All Alexandria day tripsDay Trips from Alexandria: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Alexandria, VA. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
8 waterfalls near Alexandria
Great Falls Park
McLean, VA 22102
Just 36 min from Alexandria, rated 4.8 stars by 13,676 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Blackwater Falls State Park
Davis, WV 26260
Just 2 hrs 48 min from Alexandria, rated 4.8 stars by 6,499 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cacapon State Park
Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
Just 2 hrs 4 min from Alexandria, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rocks State Park
Jarrettsville, MD 21084
Just 1 hr 41 min from Alexandria, rated 4.7 stars by 1,926 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cascade Falls
MD 21075, USA
Just 60 min from Alexandria, rated 4.7 stars by 717 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rocks State Park - Kilgore Falls/ Falling Branch Area
Pylesville, MD 21132
Just 1 hr 48 min from Alexandria, rated 4.6 stars by 685 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cunningham Falls State Park
Thurmont, MD 21788
Just 1 hr 20 min from Alexandria, rated 4.6 stars by 2,006 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Gunpowder Falls State Park Hammerman Area
Middle River, MD 21220
Just 1 hr 17 min from Alexandria, rated 4.5 stars by 3,545 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Alexandria
What are the best waterfalls near Alexandria, VA?
The best waterfalls near Alexandria range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near Alexandria?
Some waterfalls near Alexandria have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near Alexandria?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Alexandria are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near Alexandria?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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