Located about an hour from Lynchburg, Crabtree Falls is one of the tallest sets of waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. There are five major cascades in the falls, located in the George Washington National Forest in Nelson County. The falls are visible with just a short hike, suitable for adults of various ages and even young children. For the older kids, hike the entire trail for spectacular views along the way and at the top of the trail.
The first overlook is a short, easy walk from the upper parking lot along the paved trail, accessible to people of all ages and abilities. There are four additional overlooks along the way on the 1.5 mile Crabtree Trail with places to sit and rest along the way. The trail can be muddy after rains and includes several sets of stairs and many switchbacks. When you get to the top, you can follow the creek another 1.2 miles to the Crabtree Meadows parking lot or just turn around and return.
To get to Crabtree Falls, take Route 29 North, turn left on Route 151 North just past Amherst, then left on Route 56 West and follow the signs to the parking area. From the Blue Ridge Parkway (MP 27), take Route 56 East for 6.3 miles. The physical address is: 11581 Crabtree Falls Highway, Montebello, VA 24464
Looking for more local hikes? Check these out!
Lynchburg VA Area Spring Hikes
Hiking Off the Blue Ridge Parkway
Take a Family Hike to Johnson Farm on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Take a Hike at the Peaks of Otter
Hiking Indian Gap on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Hiking is a great way to spend family time outdoors enjoying nature in any season. Hiking with toddlers is a great way to grow their love of the outdoors. Check out these 11 Tips For Hiking with Toddlers and get outdoors!
Here's some more summer adventures to enjoy:
Summer Day Tripping: Smith Mountain Lake State Park
Summer Day Tripping: Maury River Fun at Ben Salem Wayside in Lexington
Summer Day Tripping: Mill Creek Lake in Amherst County
Summer Day Tripping: Otter Creek on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Summer Day Tripping: Rockfish Valley Trails and Spruce Creek Park
Summer Day Tripping: Escape to Splash Valley
Summer Day Tripping: Douthat State Park
Summer Day Tripping: English Park in Altavista
Summer Day Tripping: Wayside Park in Hurt
Summer Day Tripping: Holliday Lake State Park
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