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South River Falls

📍 Elkton, VA🥾 3.3 mi round trip · moderate🎟 $30 per vehicle, 7-day pass (Shenandoah NP entrance fee)

The third-highest falls in Shenandoah (83 feet), moderate 3.3-mile hike, dogs on leash allowed.

DirectionsOfficial site

Getting there

moderate3.3 mi round trip83 ftDog-friendly

$30 per vehicle, 7-day pass (Shenandoah NP entrance fee)

Conditions

Loading current conditions…

Based on this listing's approximate location — see the note on coordinates below.

Our take

South River Falls is Shenandoah’s third-tallest waterfall at 83 feet, reached via a moderate 3.3-mile hike through central park forest. The reasonable difficulty makes this accessible to fit hikers without extreme conditioning, and the notable height makes it worth the effort.

Leashed dogs (6 feet maximum) are permitted throughout Shenandoah, so this trail suits those with canine hiking partners. Spring and early summer offer the fullest water flows and lush understory; fall brings solitude and golden light for photography. Expect higher use on weekends and holidays.

Shenandoah entrance fee ($30 per vehicle for 7 days) applies. This hike combines moderate challenge with reliable tall-waterfall beauty and park access.

Planning your visit

Best time to go

Spring and early summer deliver peak flows and greenery; fall offers fewer crowds and colorful foliage.

How long to budget

2–2.5 hours

What to bring

  • Shenandoah entrance fee ($30 per vehicle)
  • water
  • sturdy boots

Who it suits

Good for

  • dogs on leash
  • moderate hikers
  • scenic hiking

Common questions

Is there a fee to visit South River Falls?

$30 per vehicle, 7-day pass (Shenandoah NP entrance fee)

How do I get to South River Falls?

Via a 3.3-mile round-trip trail rated moderate by the managing agency.

Can I bring my dog to South River Falls?

Yes, per the managing agency's own page — but check current leash rules before you go.

South River Falls in Shenandoah National Park

We track 7 waterfalls in Shenandoah National Park.

Other waterfalls near Elkton

There is 1 other waterfall we track in Greene County. All Shenandoah National Park waterfalls →

Quick facts

Height83 ft
Trail3.3 mi round trip
Difficultymoderate
Fee / permit$30 per vehicle, 7-day pass (Shenandoah NP entrance fee)
Managing agencyNational Park Service — Shenandoah National Park
DogsAllowed
SwimmingNot published
ADA accessNot published
CountyGreene County
RegionShenandoah National Park
Official pageView source ↗

Source

nps.gov

NPS Shenandoah 'Things To Do' page, checked 2026-09-03; third-highest falls in the park per NPS; pets allowed leashed (max 6 ft); no closure alert found as of check date.

Checked September 2026.