A strenuous 3.3-mile loop through a multi-use trail with seasonal water flow; no swimming allowed.
Virginia State Parks parking fee (varies by season; see dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/parkfees)
Loading current conditions…
DCR notes flow varies seasonally.
Little Mountain Falls is reached via a strenuous 3.3-mile multi-use loop trail in Fairy Stone State Park, hosting hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. The difficult rating and potential seasonal flow variation make this a hike for experienced visitors who can handle steep terrain and variable water volume.
The multi-use character means you may encounter cyclists and horses; courteous trail sharing is expected. Leashed dogs (6 feet maximum) are welcome. Swimming is restricted to the park’s designated beach area only; the falls area is off-limits for water entry.
Virginia State Parks charges a seasonal parking fee. Visit in spring or early summer when water flow is most abundant and dependable. This trail rewards fitness and mountain sense.
Spring through summer when water flow is most reliable; DCR notes flow varies seasonally.
2–2.5 hours
You're unfit for difficult hiking or want guaranteed water flow; the trail is rated difficult and flow is seasonal.
Virginia State Parks parking fee (varies by season; see dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/parkfees)
Via a 3.3-mile round-trip trail rated strenuous by the managing agency.
Yes, per the managing agency's own page — but check current leash rules before you go.
No — the managing agency's page states swimming/wading is not permitted here, often for safety reasons (current, rockfall, or cold water).
We track 13 waterfalls in Blue Ridge Highlands VA.
dcr.virginia.gov
DCR blog '4 Favorite Falls of Virginia State Parks' (dcr.virginia.gov), checked 2026-09-03; multi-use loop trail rated difficult, not suitable for small children or those with mobility issues; park-wide policy restricts swimming to the designated beach only (not at the falls); pets allowed leashed (max 6 ft); no closure found.
Checked September 2026.