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A manageable descent from the white-blazed AT past the lush scenery of Overall Run Falls and beyond.


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Map Key

6.2

Miles

10.0

KM

82%

Runnable

3,423' 1,043 m

High

676' 206 m

Low

9' 3 m

Up

2,755' 840 m

Down

8%

Avg Grade (5°)

37%

Max Grade (20°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Description

This trail branches off of the white-blazed AT: Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PA/MD/VA/WV) heading north toward Matthews Arm Campground and Overall Run Falls beyond, ending at the Tuscarora Trail.

The trail is blazed with blue, and is well marked. This first portion of the descent is fairly moderate, though you'll notice the elevation loss.

After about three-quarters of a mile, visitors will reach the Tuscarora-Overall Run Access Trail that connects to the Traces Trail that loops around Matthews Arm Campground. Stay to the right, heading east and north, passing the junction with Matthews Arm Trail, that comes in from the left after a little over two miles from the start.

From here, visitors will continue their descent as it becomes gradually steeper, heading toward Overall Run Falls. Shortly, there will be a viewpoint to the left (west) of the trail. This small detour is worthwhile, as the views of the falls are spectacular here! Though the Overall Run Falls don't plunge straight down, the sound that the water makes as it tumbles from rock to rock is soothing and beautiful. The total drop is still an impressive 93 feet, though depending on the season, the falls might be dry.

After you enjoy your time at the falls, the trail continues to lose elevation. There is a steep portion just after the falls, as visitors will descend to and then cross a stream. The trail levels out after the stream crossing, and opens up into a scenic hollow. Take some time to explore here, or begin your return journey.

Though the descent is fun and quick, remember that it will be tough work to ascend back to the camping area. The trail continues to descend, more gradually now, until it ends at the Tuscarora Trail.

Thanks to Larry W. Brown, for sharing this trail description. If you’re interested in learning more details about great hikes, weather, camping / lodging, wildlife, and scenic drives, check out the comprehensive Guide to Shenandoah National Park.

Contacts

Shared By:

Larry W Brown with improvements by Katie Rhue

Trail Ratings

  3.9 from 10 votes

#11265

Overall
  3.9 from 10 votes
5 Star
30%
4 Star
40%
3 Star
20%
2 Star
10%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#286

in Virginia

#11,265

Overall
8 Views Last Month
2,529 Since Apr 19, 2016
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

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Photos

The Overall Run upper cascades.
May 15, 2016 near Washington, VA
Overall Run Falls, the tallest waterfall in SNP.
May 15, 2016 near Washington, VA
Overall Run Falls, as seen from the rock viewpoint on Overall Run Trail. At 93 feet, it is the largest waterfall in the park.
Jan 29, 2016 near Washington, VA
Overall Run Falls
Apr 24, 2019 near Washington, VA
Waterfall
Aug 3, 2019 near Washington, VA
Looking down Overall Run valley towards Massanutten ridges, with clouds blanketing the Shenandoah Valley.
Oct 14, 2019 near Washington, VA
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