Overall Run Falls is the tallest waterfall in Shenandoah National Park, dropping 93 feet (28 m) in a two-tier cascade through a remote gorge in Warren County, Virginia. The primary trailhead is at the Mathews Arm Campground area near Skyline Drive Mile Post 22.1, accessed via the North Entrance of Shenandoah National Park at Front Royal on US-340. A $35 Shenandoah National Park vehicle pass is required for entry via Skyline Drive.
The round-trip hike covers 6.4 miles with approximately 1,200 feet (366 m) of elevation change. The route descends via the Overall Run and Heiskell Hollow trails from the Mathews Arm area, following a ridge before dropping steeply into the gorge carved by Overall Run Creek. The trail surface shifts between packed forest dirt, exposed roots, and loose rock as it descends toward the waterfall viewpoint.
The upper waterfall overlook appears at approximately 3.0 miles and offers a view down the 93-foot drop into the gorge below. A scramble path continues to the plunge pool base, though this requires stepping over wet rocks and is unsuitable in high water conditions. The lower tier of the falls adds additional visual interest from the gorge floor. Overall Run Creek flows year-round but peaks in volume during late winter snowmelt and spring rainfall.
The return is entirely uphill, regaining most of the 1,200 feet of elevation back to the Mathews Arm area. Trekking poles ease the sustained ascent. No potable water sources exist on the route; hikers must carry all water from the campground area. The surrounding woodland supports a diverse bird community including warblers and thrushes along the creek corridor, making it a popular destination for spring birding.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Shenandoah National Park (Warren County)
- Best season
- Spring (highest water flow); fall (foliage)
What to bring
- Hiking boots
- 2L water
- Trekking poles helpful on descent
Location
Mathews Arm Campground, Skyline Dr MP 22.1, Bentonville, VA 22610
38.7498, -78.2977 View on map
Highlights
- 93-foot two-tier waterfall — the tallest cascade in Shenandoah National Park
- Remote gorge setting with creek-side forest away from Skyline Drive crowds
- Peak water flow in late winter and spring following snowmelt and seasonal rainfall
- Optional scramble to the waterfall plunge pool base for close-up views of the lower tier
- Rich bird habitat along Overall Run Creek, attractive for woodland warbler species in spring
Tips for visiting
- Visit in spring (March through May) for the highest water volume; summer visits may find a significantly reduced flow
- Carry trekking poles — the return hike climbs steadily from the gorge for approximately 3 miles
- The descent to the plunge pool base involves wet rocks; waterproof boots and caution are required in high water
- No water is available on the trail; carry at least 2 liters from the Mathews Arm Campground area
- The Mathews Arm Campground adjacent to the trailhead is open seasonally from May through October for overnight stays
When to visit
Spring (March through May) delivers the highest waterfall volume and the most dramatic cascade views, while October provides vivid fall foliage along the creek corridor. Weekday visits at either season avoid the heaviest Skyline Drive crowds at the Front Royal North Entrance.
Accessibility
The Overall Run Falls trail is not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers due to the steep, uneven descent into the gorge and a rocky trail surface throughout the 6.4-mile round-trip route. No accessible overlooks or viewing platforms for the falls exist along Skyline Drive.
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Overall Run Falls?
Overall Run Falls drops 93 feet (28 m) in a two-tier cascade, making it the tallest waterfall in Shenandoah National Park.
What is the best season to see the falls at full flow?
Late winter and spring — roughly March through May — produce the highest water volume following snowmelt and seasonal rainfall. Summer and fall flows are significantly reduced during dry periods.
How difficult is the hike to Overall Run Falls?
The 6.4-mile round-trip involves 1,200 feet of elevation change, with descent on the way in and a sustained climb on the return. Most fit hikers complete it in 4 to 5 hours. The optional descent to the plunge pool adds scrambling on wet rocks.
Is a permit required?
No timed-entry permit is required for this hike. A valid Shenandoah National Park vehicle pass ($35) provides access via Skyline Drive through the Front Royal North Entrance.
Are there camping options near the trailhead?
Mathews Arm Campground, located adjacent to the trailhead area at Skyline Drive MP 22.2, is open seasonally from May through October and offers tent and RV sites on a reservation basis at recreation.gov.