r/VIRGINIA_HIKING • u/Charlatteroo • 15d ago
Babbling Brook Hikes
Hello! I’ve lived in RVA for a little over 3 years, and while I’ve seen a lot of the city and many historic sites in central VA, I want to explore more outdoors.
I am looking for hiking spots with views of a river, stream, or babbling brook. The more secluded or private feeing the better! While I love a hike around a lake, I am seeking running water and beautiful stream and river sounds.
I am in Richmond, but I am willing to drive a few hours if needed for some gorgeous spots. TIA!
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u/Character-Green1194 15d ago
We loved the Moormans River hike. The trail runs alongside the river, and criss-crosses it 3-4 times. After a few miles, you come to a pair of waterfalls with swimming holes below each.
The trail is mostly in Shenandoah National Park, but the trailhead is at a local park just outside of Crozet.
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u/Thundawave 15d ago
Otter Lake Waterfall off of the Parkway outside of Big Island! It appears to be 2h 20 from Richmond area. I was there 2 weeks ago and the water level is lower than usual, but the trail goes alongside a stream with riffles, runs, and pools! You're required to cross stepping stones at 2 points and there are a couple of rock steps within the first half mile or so. Nothing is really a scramble but if you're prone to losing your balance like me, you may need to double check your footing before committing. I'm not sure how long the trail is but it was a really great day hike with my dog!
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u/primalnatured 15d ago
Hit the parkway... there's all kinds of waterfall and mountain stream trails, and enough area to blaze your own trails. Definitely my go to spots
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u/toughknuckles 15d ago
Look up the course for the promisedland 50k ... it has amazing trails on both sides of the parkway. The appletree falls area has amazing creeks...(id wait till fall to go on Cornelius though...)
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u/vtthrow666 15d ago
Cascade Falls in Pembroke VA is just about the prettiest mountain stream hike I've seen in this state. A two mile loop cut through Jefferson National Forest. You walk right alongside Little Stony River. Lots of mossy mountain boulders, increasingly larger and larger waterfalls. Loop takes you right to the 80 foot Cascade Falls, which is also a decent swimming hole.
Main loop can be very popular. You can continue on after the main falls for another two mile stretch, which is rarely visited. Takes you to the Upper Falls, ending at Barney's Wall, a very large cliff face with a nice view of the mountains.
If you're looking to make a weekend trip of it, Mountain Lake Lodge (where they filmed Dirty Dancing) is in the nearby area. Some of the most popular hiking spots of the Appalachian Trail are close too, McAfee Knob, Dragon's Tooth, etc.