cascade falls

This is one of the best and most scenic hikes that we have been on. Just less than 5 miles. Incredible views then entire way and then the big falls come into view.

It is a beautiful place to spend on weekends. There are two routes, one relatively easier than the other one. So, you can choose either of them based on your preferences. The bathrooms are at the beginning of the hike, and you cannot find any after you start hiking.

It is a 4 mile hike. We took the lower trail which follows the river and it is a very rocky hike. I wasn't sure if I was gonna make it but the closer we got the more beautiful it was and then there was the most beautiful waterfall. Make sure you have the proper hiking gear because it is very slippery along the rocks. I took numerous pictures along the river leading up to the falls. We took the upper trail back and it was wider, smoother, and went downhill. It was so beautiful in the fall. Since it is in the National Park there is a 3 dollar charge for parking there are envelopes that you have to fill out and place into a container, make sure you take the tag and put it in your window otherwise it is a $75 ticket. We met some people that got a ticket.

The hike to Cascade Falls was one of the prettiest hikes we have ever taken. The trail is just beautiful!! It is a must if you are in the area.

We took the lower trail in, and the upper trail out. In my opinion, that is the best route. Either way you go, it's a two mile hike, one way. But, at the end of that hike, you will find a 66 ft. tall, wonderful waterfall. The lower trail is much more rocky, and uneven than the upper trail path. But you are right along side the stream the whole way, and that is awesome. Just make sure you wear appropriate footwear. If you take the upper trail back, you will have a fairly steep climb initially, but then it's mostly down hill the rest of the way back to the parking lot. The path is wide, and not nearly as uneven as the lower trail. There is a three dollar parking fee, but after seeing how well maintained the area was, from the parking lot, to the bathrooms, and the triails back to the falls, I didn't mind paying that at all. We got there fairly early, around 10am. There were considerably more people there as we were returning to our vehicle at 1pm.

Overall, a truly beautiful place. The whole trail and grounds are super clean. Everyone we met was friendly and outgoing. The falls themselves are lovely and magical the whole way there. Alright a few key tips essential to the hike. Note: it is a hike not a walk. An individual who ventures to the falls should be aware of this. There are two trails to the falls, both are stunning. Leaving from the main parking lot about half a mile on the right there will be a crossover to the lower trail; however, if you elect to wait you can pick it up in a mile. Again note: the low and high trails will take you to the same location. Now back to the lower trail, if you are not: semi-fit, have hip, knee, or foot issues, need a walker, or have vertigo stay to the higher trail. The terrain on the lower involves a lot of steps, slick areas, unstable steps, and narrow spaces. Even though the higher trail is much wider it can be considered a steeper trail. Next, bring water, bring water, and bring water. No matter the weather condition bring water or even better mint water. Next bring a snack. There are no facilities on the trail, only at the trail head, nor water or snacks. Lastly, watch for falling branches and nuts. It is 4 miles round trip, no matter the trailhead selected. It took us 2.5 hours to complete. Enjoy!

This is a must for hiking and seeing the wonderful mountain stream and spectacular waterfall. The literature says easy to moderate hike but it should be moderate to moderately strenuous. Lots of rocks and tree roots. Wear good shoes. Took about 3 hours. Take the 'lower trail' for getting to the falls which wind along the mountain stream. There are several places to stop and rest. The 'upper trail' is a moderately steep grade but easier hike back down to the parking lot. There is a bathroom at the parking area. Parking lot has a $3 fee. Would not be good for strollers. We met several dogs on leashes along the way.

This is one of the most scenic hikes we've done. Go during the week if possible because we hear it gets very crowded on the weekends. We were there after some big rains, so the falls were really impressive.

Path follows the little river with beautiful views the entire walk. Make sure you allow enough time to stop along the way.

We took the lower trail...it was a day after a heavy rain so it was muddy and you had to be extra careful with each step. We almost gave up. Then suddenly there it was the falls....wow it was great...and a sense of accomplishment!!! Then We took the upper trail back to the parking lot....what a relief.. A nice smooth walk back. A great hike and a great reward seeing Cascade falls!!

We took the lower trail into the Cascades. It was absolutely beautiful !! Take your time and watch your footing--the lower trail is a bit tricky but well worth it as you are right beside the water the whole time. Coming back we took the upper trail-which is still beautiful and you see things from a different vantage point. The Cascades are a MUST to see if you are near Blacksburg.

Two mile hike to the cascade falls but worth the trip. Two paths up. Take a snack and some water because it is more than a hike around the track.

I don't know when I have taken a more enjoyable hike in the woods. The two mile trail meanders along a raging stream with stone paths in wetter areas and steps where needed. It finally ends in a pretty spectacular waterfall (at least for these old mountains). The pool is deep and inviting but the water was so cold (in August) that it literally took our breath away. Take the upper trail back to the parking lot as it is a nice straight downhill run.

Difficult hike if you take the scenic trail. It is a 4 mile hike in total and was difficult but the waterfall is lovely.

We took the lower path to the falls which was more difficult but very scenic and worth the extra effort - we had hiking poles which really helped as I slipped a couple of times. It took us about an hour and 45 mins. to get up, but we did stop several times to enjoy the views. The falls itself are just beautiful - take a picnic and spend some time enjoying the break! Several people went into the water to cool off and swim, although we didn't. We took the upper trail back down - took about 45 mins to return.