LOCATION: Shenandoah National Park, MM 50.3
TRAIL DISTANCE: 6.1 Miles
TRAIL HEAD/ DIRECTIONS: dark hollow parking
TRAIL TYPE: Loop
TRAIL GRADE:  DIFFICULT (3)
TRAIL PARKING: 50 Spots or less
KEY WORDS: Waterfalls , ages 10+
TRAIL INFO
What’s to like about the trail:  Waterfall lovers rejoice! this loop showcases two of SNP’s best!  
Why go for a hike on this trail: A solid distance hike with terrain challenges, access to waterfalls and wonderous tree canopy….high fives all around!.
Best time to go for a hike on this trail:  spring and fall or during wetter periods of the year

Summary:   

Your adventure begins at the Dark Hollow falls parking lot on Skyline Drive (mm 50.7).  The trail is well known, well liked and a hit with visitors so come prepared for trail traffic. The trail immediately cascades into the forest and at points can feel steep.  The trail is a very well managed and maintained gravel trail that will guide you along for 0.75 miles until the Dark Hollow falls.  The falls are 70ft and have multiple drops and vantage points, providing a great opportunity to exercise your photography skills. From here continue down the trail to a large fork in the road, here you will meet a few trails including the Rose River trail. Continue your adventure on the Rose River trail noting the trail becomes rockier and to be mindful of your footing. The trail is lush with forest foliage, small waterfalls and dip pools creating another world feel from the busy dark hollow area. The trail navigates your adventure through a series of small ascents and descents leading to a more robust climb to the perch view of the 67 foot Rose River falls. The view here is a bit muddled compared to Dark Hollow as there is no access to the falls and quite a steep embankment to get to the falls area.  This is a great place for a water break and breather. Once fulfilled, continue on the Rose River trail, your trail will be relatively smoother for the next mile and ride parallel to the Rose River. The trail narrows in some areas however it remains a consistent dirt and stone trail.  The trail will begin to ascend back towards Skyline Drive, expect an elongated climb (and lung burn) as you make your way up to the intersection of the Rose River trail and the Rose River fire road. At this intersection take a left and continue on the fire road for a mile to return to the intersection with the Dark Hollow falls trail. Take a right onto the Dark Hollow falls trail and begin your .75 mile climb back to your car. This short climb is nothing to take for granted with its elevation gain and hikers should be mindful to take breaks if needed. The trail returns you back to the dark hollow falls parking lot.
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HIKE ON!
GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS
  • NEARBY HIKES
  • TOWNS
  • THINGS TO KNOW
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  1. Shenandoah National Park entrance fee is $30.00
  2. be bear , snake and tick aware.
  3. this Trail can get waterlogged with heavy rains, mind your footing on the rocks!
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