Saint Mary's River Waterfall From Blue Ridge Parkway - Hiking trail near Raphine, Virginia, United States - Description

WARNING: Saint Mary's River is most likely not passable after heavy rains. Do not attempt during the Winter as fording the river is nearly impossible.

From the kiosk, follow the short connector trail and take a left onto the Mine Bank Creek Trail. Follow this trail down and along the creek fording it multiple times. There are many small waterfalls and swimming holes along this trail. The Mine Bank Creek Trail ends at the Saint Mary's Trail.

Take a left on Saint Mary's Trail as it follows the river gorge. There are many campsites along this trail. This trail ends at Saint Mary's River. From there, take a right on the Saint Mary's Gorge Trail and cross the river. The river is wide and can be impassable after heavy rains or during the Winter. Continue on the trail following the river upstream.

The trail will enter the gorge. There are many beautiful rock formations and waterfalls along this section. Camping is forbidden on the Saint Mary's Gorge Trail. The trail will cross the river again as it comes to an end by a cliff. Once across the river, continue upstream until you reach the beautiful Saint Mary's River Waterfall.

To finish this hike, simply retrace your steps to the trailhead.

Drive to milepost 23 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The tailhead parking is across the "Fork Mountain" overlook . Look for a dirt road going into the woods on the South end of the overlook.