​LOCATION: Shenandoah National Park MM 21
TRAIL DISTANCE: 6.5 Miles
TRAIL HEAD/ DIRECTIONS:  hogback overlook
TRAIL TYPE: in & Out
TRAIL GRADE:   strenuous (4)
TRAIL PARKING: 20 spaces
Key words: unique, summit view, waterfalls, camping
TRAIL INFO
What's to like about the trail: Beautiful forest canopy amongst elder trees leading to a perch view of the overall run falls and big vista views of Massanutten mountain.
Why go for a hike on this trail:​ The tallest waterfall in the park packs a punch with a strenuous hike. This trail hosts the Cascades falls and access to the Matthews Arm campground. a guaranteed hammy burner of a trail
Best time to go for a hike on this trail:   Four seasons hike.

SUMMARY:  
​   Your adventure initiates from the Hogback parking lot, a small parking lot found at mile marker (mm) 21 on Skyline Drive. 
     The Appalachian trail is found to the back left of the parking lot, follow for 0.5 miles to a "t" intersection with Tuscarora -Overall run trail. take a right onto the Tuscarora -Overall run trail and enjoy for the next 2.9 miles. The trail here is a mix of dense forest,  rich with elder trees and a pristine trail system. The trail is single-track with roots, small rocks, and compacted dirt. Be prepared to enjoy the trek down to the falls, this over 1800 ft. descent should be remembered later in this summary. The hike is best for kids (10+) and for those with health concerns or conditions use the descent to establish pace and break for water every mile. The trail will begin to see a rise in rockiness and tricky footing, be mindful during wetter periods. Your first waterfall will be the cascades falls which drop subtly 29ft into the forest floor, its a mix of moss, fern and tiny creek just perfect for a breather and tease of what's to come.  Continue on your descent to the Overall Run falls, as the trail snakes down the canyon walls as trees thin to yield to bountiful vistas and the sounds of water begin to increase in intensity. The Overall Run Falls are the tallest waterfall in the park, dropping 93ft to the floor. There are several perches to enjoy the birds eye view of the falls and the Massanutten mountain range off in the distance. From here you can continue downward to meet up with the Beecher ridge trail and make this a 13 mile banger or you can retrace your steps back to your car. Here is where we ask you to remember that all too pleasant descent to the falls, its now become a lung burning ascent of over 1800 ft. Remember on ascents its important to have pace, your pace, stop for water on flat areas and remove layers if feeling overheated. The entire way back is a climb back, and worth the time to take in rewarding yourself with breaks. As you return remember to connect with the AT trail and hang a left to return to your car.

HIKE ON!
GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS

LOCAL

  • THINGS TO KNOW
  • NEARBY HIKES
  • TOWN
  • ACTIVITIES
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  1. Park entrance fee: $30.00 per car 
  2. bears frequent this trail
  3. the waterfall is the tallest in the park with a 93 foot drop
  4. camping is offered in matthews arm area
  5. this trail is popular, arrive early on all days ending in y
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