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Bottoms Creek Gorge

Shawsville, virginia

Trail Info


​Distance

3.2 Miles

Trail Rating

Difficult

Trail Type

In & Out

The Experience


You will love: Second highest waterfall in Virginia. A mild hike that culminates in viewing of a 350 ft. waterfall. Yep that high!
You need to know: 
  1. No fee required.
  2. This preserve is part of the Nature Conservancy protected lands.

Your trail experience begins at the access road "parking area". The parking is really just a small grassy area that can fill quickly with just a few cars. Using the access road, walk along for one mile amongst Mountain Laurel and passing the intersection with the yellow hash (Knight Trail). in less than 0.2 miles come to the red hash (Johnston trail) and go forth with the most direct route to the falls overlook. The trail is relatively easy, with an easy rolling topography and very few inclines.  The Johnston Trail is 1.5 miles one way and lands you atop Bent Mountain Overlook with a primo view of the falls. During greener months, some of your view may be blocked so I recommend a fall or winter adventure. The view of the falls and the falls itself naturally relies on rainfall, make sure to come for a visit after their has been some precipitation to ensure the falls stand out and show off.
After enjoying the view, retrace your steps to return to your car. This is a nice and easy trail suitable for furry friends and family.

HIKE ON!

GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS
  • 1 Water Bottle
  • Light Snacks
  • Bug Spray
  • ​Sunscreen​​​
Driving Directions
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  • Home
  • Articles
    • Starters >
      • Beginner Hikers Must Haves
      • How to plan for a hike
      • Parents Guide to Family Hiking
    • Gear Guide >
      • Bicycles 101
      • Exo Spikes
      • Layering
      • Relive App
      • Trail Shoe Guide
      • Trail Sock Guide
    • Health & Safety >
      • First Aid Essentials
      • Hikers Safety Guide
      • Tick Prevention
      • Trail Food Guide
      • Training Guide >
        • Work Up : OLD RAG
        • Work Up : Mount Rogers
        • Work Up : Mount Marshall
    • Hike Lists >
      • Dark Sky Parks
      • Northern Virginia Trails for Dogs
      • Romantic Hikes
      • Trail Gems >
        • Hidden Gems Shenandoah National Park
        • Short but tough hikes
        • Summer Blockbuster Trails
        • Top Day Hikes Shenandoah National Park
        • Top Swimming Holes
        • Toughest Virginia Hikes
        • Waterfall Hikes
        • Virginia Fall Hikes
      • Ultimate Kids Trail Guide
      • Winter Hiking Guide
  • Trail Finder
    • Maryland Trails
    • Central Virginia Trails
    • Northern Virginia Trails
    • Shenandoah National Park Trails
    • Southern Virginia Trails
    • West Virginia Trails
    • Trail Ratings
  • Shop
  • Subscribe