LOCATION: Shawsville, VA
TRAIL DISTANCE: 3.2 Miles TRAIL HEAD/ DIRECTIONS: Camp Alta Mons TRAIL TYPE: In and Out TRAIL GRADE: Difficult (2) TRAIL PARKING: 30 spaces or less KEY WORDS: Family Friendly 8+ , Dog Friendly TRAIL INFO
What’s to like about the trail: A peaceful retreat with bountiful interactions with water, towering trees, groves of laurel leading to a waterfall paradise. Why go for a hike on this trail: Feed your fever for experiencing waterfalls, this one just may become your favorite. Best time to go for a hike on this trail: All seasons, be cautious during rain. Summary: Your trail experience kicks off from the Alta Mons camp, a spiritual retreat location that provides a big welcome to hikers with ample parking , a sign in and a unique experience. Head straight on the main camp road for one mile until its end. Make a left, and join the Stiles Falls trail (white hash) as it combs over Purgatory Creek (Yes, that's its name). Your trail experiences weaves through Mountain Laurel at its onset leading to small inclines and some small boulders to traverse. The trail ends at the 40 foot Stiles Falls. This paradise welcomes you with a trail perch view or you can venture amongst the large boulders and find your own way to the bottom of Stiles Falls. The key to enjoyment on this three mile trail is knowing that rainy conditions or winter weather will amplify the difficulty and could make it dangerous to access the falls. This trail is recommended during Spring, Summer and Fall for that very reason. Once you have had your fill of Stiles Falls (and trust me that could be awhile, its that breathtaking) , retrace your steps to your car. |