Day Trips from Roanoke
← All Roanoke day tripsDay Trips from Roanoke: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Roanoke, VA. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
12 waterfalls near Roanoke
Cascade Falls Trailhead
Pembroke, VA 24136
Just 1 hr 9 min from Roanoke, 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.
Lower Cascade Falls
NC 27052, USA
Just 1 hr 44 min from Roanoke, rated 4.9 stars by 154 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.
Fall Creek Waterfall
Stoneville, NC 27048
Just 1 hr 15 min from Roanoke, rated 4.8 stars by 130 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.
Brush Creek Falls
Athens, WV 24712
Just 1 hr 45 min from Roanoke, rated 4.8 stars by 528 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.
Widows Creek Falls
NC 28635, USA
Just 2 hrs 22 min from Roanoke, rated 4.8 stars by 215 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Eno River State Park
NC 27705, USA
Just 2 hrs 30 min from Roanoke, rated 4.8 stars by 2,633 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.
Cathedral Falls
Gauley Bridge, WV 25085
Just 2 hrs 47 min from Roanoke, rated 4.8 stars by 2,457 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Falling Springs Falls
Hot Springs, VA 24445
Just 1 hr 25 min from Roanoke, 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.
Hanging Rock State Park
Danbury, NC 27016
Just 1 hr 40 min from Roanoke, rated 4.8 stars by 7,481 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.
New River Gorge National Park: Sandstone Falls Recreation Area
Shady Spring, WV 25918
Just 2 hrs 11 min from Roanoke, rated 4.8 stars by 657 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Otter Lake Waterfalls
VA 24574, USA
Just 1 hr 19 min from Roanoke, 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.
Hidden Falls
North Carolina 27052, USA
Just 1 hr 47 min from Roanoke, rated 4.7 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Roanoke
What are the best waterfalls near Roanoke, VA?
The best waterfalls near Roanoke 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 Roanoke?
Some waterfalls near Roanoke 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 Roanoke?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Roanoke 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 Roanoke?
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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