The most visited waterfall hike in Shenandoah, moderate 1.4 miles, but no dogs allowed.
$30 per vehicle, 7-day pass (Shenandoah NP entrance fee)
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Based on this listing's approximate location — see the note on coordinates below.
Dark Hollow Falls is the most popular waterfall hike in Shenandoah National Park, drawing crowds for its accessible 1.4-mile moderate trail and reliable cascade. Spring flows are impressive; flows diminish through summer and fall but the hike remains rewarding year-round.
Expect company, especially on weekends and holidays. The moderate difficulty makes it suitable for families and fitness-conscious visitors without extreme conditioning. A Shenandoah entrance fee ($30 per vehicle for 7 days) is required.
Dogs are not permitted on this trail, a policy unique to this specific route within the park. Visit early in the day to beat crowds and find parking.
Spring and early summer for peak water flow; crowds peak on weekends and holidays year-round.
45 minutes to 1 hour
You're bringing a dog; they are not permitted on this trail.
$30 per vehicle, 7-day pass (Shenandoah NP entrance fee)
Via a 1.4-mile round-trip trail rated moderate by the managing agency.
No — the managing agency's page states dogs are not permitted here (or on the specific trail/area needed to reach the falls).
We track 7 waterfalls in Shenandoah National Park.
There are 2 other waterfalls we track in Madison County. All Shenandoah National Park waterfalls →
nps.gov
NPS Shenandoah 'Things To Do' page, checked 2026-09-03; page states pets not allowed on this specific trail; no closure alert found on nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/conditions.htm as of check date.
Checked September 2026.