LOCATION: Syria VA
TRAIL DISTANCE: 4.7 Miles TRAIL HEAD/ PARKING: CHAD BERRY LANE TRAIL TYPE: In & Out TRAIL GRADE: Difficult (3) TRAIL PARKING: 30-40 spaces or available parking just before the entrance ( neighbors will charge $5-$10 to park) KEY WORDS: Waterfalls, Unique, Ages 7+, Swimming TRAIL INFO
What's to like about the trail: A nicely wooded trail combing along side streams, falls and many points to just plop on a rock and lay. Why go for a hike on this trail: Waterfalls, waterfalls and a solid hiking workout. Best time to go for a hike on this trail: all seasons SUMMARY This hike has two different ways to visit the falls. The first is via skyline mile marker 42.6 white oak canyon parking lot. The second access point is what this summary is built on, it is the more difficult of the two however more scenic. Your hike begins at the bottom of the mountain, off Weakly Hollow Road at the White Oak Canyon lower lot. The lot fills quickly, so either be there early or expect to park outside the lot on a neighbors plot of land (fee). The park service lot is ranger managed , be expected to show your park pass or pay the entrance fee. After the ranger station use the blue trail and stay to the right (left heads to cedar run). The hike is a thing of beauty but expect to work for it. This trail has one thing on its mind, get you to the falls. However that means a steady ascent. The trail is built on a single track trail of roots, loose debris and rocks & navigates nicely up the mountain alongside the water. The trail is well managed and maintained, expect your trek to cross creeks, see fauna, wonderfully mature trees and plenty of pull off places to take a dip. Yes this trail has plenty of quaint water holes to dip your sweaty soul in, beware its mountain water and even in the dead of summer the water can be quiet cold. As you continue to make your way up you will notice the sounds of water growing in intensity, the babbling creek turning rockier and small waterfalls appearing (ranging up to 35 feet tall). The showstopper is a 85 foot waterfall cascading down the dramatic rock face into a large (swim friendly) pool. To get to the waterfall and the pool, know that there is no trail, its a choose your own adventure down into the waterfall area. The ground is loose and tricky, so be careful. Once you have enjoyed the day at the canyon, return the way you came back to the lot. Important notice: This trail is frequented by copperhead and timber rattlesnakes. be mindful. HIKE ON! |
GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS:
|