Skip to main content

Your Guide To Hiking Dark Hallow Falls

Dark Hallow Falls


 For another birthday of mine, my dad and I decided to head out on a hike to Dark Hollow Falls, located in the Shenandoah Valley, Virginia. It was a perfect day for a hike, and although the trail is pretty short—only about 1.6 miles—it’s packed with beautiful scenery and ends with a stunning waterfall. The whole hike took us about an hour and five minutes to complete, which makes it a great option if you're looking for a shorter outdoor adventure.

What to Bring on the Hike

One thing to note is that the trail can get pretty busy, and when we went, it was definitely full of hikers. Despite the crowd, it was a peaceful and enjoyable experience. If you’re planning to hike Dark Hollow Falls, here’s what I recommend you bring:

  • Hiking Shoes: While not completely necessary, I would still suggest wearing hiking shoes. They’ll give you better grip and make the trail easier to manage, especially on the downhill parts.
  • Water: Be sure to bring plenty of water, especially if you’re hiking during the summer. I prefer to carry mine in an insulated bottle to keep it cool throughout the hike.
  • Snacks: Pack a few snacks to enjoy when you reach the waterfall. Sitting there, listening to the sound of the falls, and having a snack break is one of the highlights of this hike.
  • Camera: Trust me, you’ll want to capture the views, especially at the waterfall. Bring a camera or make sure your phone is fully charged to snap some memories.

What Are the Views Like?

Even though Dark Hollow Falls is a relatively short trail, the views along the way make it feel like you’re stepping into a hidden wonderland. The forested trail winds through trees and opens up to occasional scenic viewpoints as you make your way down to the waterfall.

When you reach the falls, especially if you go in the summer like we did, the view is absolutely worth it. The water cascading over the rocks creates a serene, almost magical atmosphere, and the sound of the water rushing down is incredibly relaxing. We spent a good amount of time just sitting there, taking in the beauty and snapping a few pictures. It’s the kind of place where time seems to slow down.

Food Near Dark Hollow Falls

We didn’t stop for food after our hike, but if you're looking for a bite to eat, there are some great spots nearby. From a quick Google search, I found a few popular options that would be perfect after a day of hiking:

  • Three Blacksmiths: This seems to be a popular restaurant near the falls, offering a cozy and unique dining experience.
  •  Off the Grid: Another solid option for food close to Dark Hollow Falls. Perfect for those who want something a little more casual.

While I didn’t try these places myself, they come highly recommended if you’re looking to refuel after your adventure.

Would I Recommend Dark Hollow Falls?

Absolutely! I would recommend Dark Hollow Falls to anyone looking for a short but rewarding hike with amazing views. If you enjoy hikes that offer a beautiful waterfall payoff, this one is for you. I’d give this hike a solid 7/10. The only reason I’m not giving it a higher rating is that I personally enjoy longer hikes, and I wish this trail was a bit longer to really immerse myself in the surroundings. That being said, for a quick nature fix, Dark Hollow Falls hits the spot perfectly.

Conclusion

Have you hiked Dark Hollow Falls, VA before? If so, I’d love to hear about your experience! Drop a comment below and let me know what you thought of the hike. And if you haven’t had the chance to explore it yet, what are you waiting for? Grab your hiking shoes, pack some snacks, and head out to enjoy this gem of a trail. You won’t regret it!




Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Your Guide to Hiking Crabtree Falls, VA

If you're a fan of hiking and breathtaking views, Crabtree Falls in Virginia is a destination you won’t want to miss. My love for this trail began when I decided to celebrate my birthday by hiking it with my dad and cousin. Just 2.5 hours from home, the experience was much more than just a fun hike—it was an adventure filled with stunning scenery, a challenging trail, and some quality time with loved ones. Even more impressive, my dad had just undergone gallbladder surgery a month before, and he still managed to complete the trail! So, if he can do it, chances are you can too. Crabtree Falls offers one of the most beautiful waterfall hikes in Virginia, and at 3.6 miles in length, it’s the perfect mix of challenge and reward. Let’s dive into everything you need to know before you lace up your boots and head out. What to Pack for the Hike One thing that made our hike successful was being well-prepared. You don’t need to bring much, but there are a few essentials you won’t want to for...
Post a Comment
Read more

A Short Hike Through History: Exploring Cold Harbor Battlefield

Recently, I decided to take a short hike at Cold Harbor Battlefield, a place rich with history and scenic trails. Although I didn’t do the full hike this time around, I still managed to get some good walking in and soak up the atmosphere of the battlefield. I have done the complete loop around Cold Harbor in the past, so I had a good idea of what to expect. Each visit to this historic site reveals a bit more about its somber significance. The History of Cold Harbor Battlefield Cold Harbor Battlefield is much more than just a trail; it’s a significant piece of Civil War history. The Battle of Cold Harbor was a devastating encounter, resulting in a Union defeat under Ulysses S. Grant’s command as he attempted to advance toward Richmond, Virginia. Confederate forces, led by General Robert E. Lee, were deeply entrenched here, and the battle resulted in approximately 32,000 casualties on both sides. It was one of the bloodiest and most fatal battles of the war, leaving an indelible mark on ...
Post a Comment
Read more