Day Trips from Charlottesville
← All Charlottesville day tripsDay Trips from Charlottesville: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Charlottesville, VA. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
9 waterfalls near Charlottesville
Rose River Falls
Virginia 22743, USA
Just 1 hr 13 min from Charlottesville, rated 4.9 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.
Cedar Run Falls
Virginia 22743, USA
Just 1 hr 23 min from Charlottesville, rated 4.9 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.
Cascade Falls Trailhead
Pembroke, VA 24136
Just 2 hrs 43 min from Charlottesville, rated 4.9 stars by 1,521 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.
Falling Springs Falls
Hot Springs, VA 24445
Just 1 hr 55 min from Charlottesville, rated 4.8 stars by 165 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 33 min from Charlottesville, 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.
Great Falls Park
McLean, VA 22102
Just 2 hrs 13 min from Charlottesville, 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 52 min from Charlottesville, 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.
Otter Lake Waterfalls
VA 24574, USA
Just 1 hr 44 min from Charlottesville, rated 4.7 stars by 440 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Cascade Falls
MD 21075, USA
Just 2 hrs 51 min from Charlottesville, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Charlottesville
What are the best waterfalls near Charlottesville, VA?
The best waterfalls near Charlottesville 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 Charlottesville?
Some waterfalls near Charlottesville 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 Charlottesville?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Charlottesville 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 Charlottesville?
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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