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Day Trips from Harrisonburg

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Day Trips from Harrisonburg: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes

The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Harrisonburg, VA. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.

6 waterfalls near Harrisonburg

Cascade Falls Trailhead, Pembroke, VA 24136

Cascade Falls Trailhead

Pembroke, VA 24136

Just 2 hrs 36 min from Harrisonburg, rated 4.9 stars by 1,521 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.

2 hrs 36 min4.9 (1,521)NatureFree - $20

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.

Cacapon State Park, Berkeley Springs, WV 25411

Cacapon State Park

Berkeley Springs, WV 25411

Just 1 hr 40 min from Harrisonburg, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.

1 hr 40 min4.8 (96)NatureFree - $20

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.

Blackwater Falls State Park, Davis, WV 26260

Blackwater Falls State Park

Davis, WV 26260

Just 1 hr 56 min from Harrisonburg, rated 4.8 stars by 6,499 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.

1 hr 56 min4.8 (6,499)NatureFree - $20

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.

Falling Springs Falls, Hot Springs, VA 24445

Falling Springs Falls

Hot Springs, VA 24445

Just 1 hr 47 min from Harrisonburg, rated 4.8 stars by 165 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.

1 hr 47 min4.8 (165)NatureFree - $20

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.

Babcock State Park, Clifftop, WV 25831

Babcock State Park

Clifftop, WV 25831

Just 2 hrs 48 min from Harrisonburg, rated 4.8 stars by 2,685 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.

2 hrs 48 min4.8 (2,685)NatureAdventureFree - $20

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.

Cascade Falls, MD 21075, USA

Cascade Falls

MD 21075, USA

Just 2 hrs 42 min from Harrisonburg, rated 4.7 stars by 717 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.

2 hrs 42 min4.7 (717)NatureAdventureFree - $20

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.

Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Harrisonburg

What are the best waterfalls near Harrisonburg, VA?

The best waterfalls near Harrisonburg 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 Harrisonburg?

Some waterfalls near Harrisonburg 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 Harrisonburg?

Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Harrisonburg 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 Harrisonburg?

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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