Pros & cons
PROS
- Towering 150–200 ft waterfall
- Well-built boardwalk and stairs to a close-up view
CONS
- Steep climb back to the Parkway
- Parking can fill on weekends
Overview
Apple Orchard Falls is one of Virginia’s tallest waterfalls, dropping roughly 150–200 feet off Apple Orchard Mountain in Jefferson National Forest. The route starts from the Blue Ridge Parkway at Sunset Fields Overlook (around MP 78.4) and follows a scenic forest path to a boardwalk at the base of the falls. It’s a classic Parkway hike: big payoff, but be ready to work for it on the way back up.
The Hike
From the Parkway trailhead, the Apple Orchard Falls Trail descends through rhododendron and fern-filled woods, crossing the Appalachian Trail and a forest road on its way down. Expect wooden bridges, a smaller cascade partway in, and wooden stairs on the final, steep approach to the main falls. The trail is recognized as a National Recreation Trail. Many hikers do it as an out-and-back from the Parkway; others link it with Cornelius Creek Trail for a longer loop or start from North Creek Campground and hike up instead.
What Makes It Special
- The falls themselves are tall and dramatic, especially in spring or after rain.
- A boardwalk and bench areas near the base give safe, intimate views without clambering on slick rock.
- The creek is photogenic the whole way, with mossy boulders, bridges, and splashy mini-falls.
Difficulty & Conditions
Going down is the easy part; the return is a sustained, over-1,000-foot climb. Expect slick rocks and mud after rain, plus a lot of stairs near the end. Crowds are common on pleasant weekends and during peak flow or fall color. Dogs are allowed on leash.
Wildlife & Nature
Keep an ear out for songbirds and watch for deer moving quietly through the forest. Along the creek, you’ll pass lush rhododendron and ferns—and occasional stinging nettles near moist sections.
Planning Notes
Parking is at Sunset Fields Overlook and can be limited at busy times. There are no services along the trail; bring everything you need. Alternate approaches from North Creek offer loop options and more time along the water, with inviting but cold swimming holes—use caution.
Best Time to Visit
- Season: April–October sees the most use; spring and post-rain visits deliver the best flow. Fall colors are beautiful but busy.
- Timing: Start early to beat crowds and summer heat; weekdays are quieter.
- Photography: Overcast days make the water and mossy creek glow without harsh shadows.
Where it is
37.5157, -79.5323Tips for Apple Orchard Falls
- 01Start from Sunset Fields Overlook at MP ~78.4 and follow signs across the AT and a forest road to stay on the falls trail.
- 02Start early; parking is limited and the climb out is hot and exposed in summer.
- 03Wear sturdy shoes—the final approach uses steep wooden stairs and can be slick after rain.
- 04Pack plenty of water and consider trekking poles for the sustained ascent.
- 05Watch for ticks and stinging nettles near the creek; keep dogs leashed.
Amenities
Near Apple Orchard Falls
All places →All trails →
0.7 mi awaySunset FieldsBusy trailhead for Apple Orchard Falls, not much of a viewTrailhead · Pullout
1 mi awayBlack Rock Hill OverlookQuick pull-off for a peek at dark diorite in the woodsPullout · Parking
1.4 mi awayOnion Mountain OverlookSmall pullout with big southeast views and a short rock loopTrailhead · Pullout
1.5 mi awayApple Orchard Falls TrailSteep Blue Ridge descent to a tall, photogenic waterfallChallenging · 2.9 mi · 2.5 hr
1.6 mi awayApple Orchard Mountain OverlookVirginia’s highest Parkway overlook with easy, big-sky sunrise viewsPullout · Parking
2.8 mi awayAppalachian Trail (Parkway corridor)Short, view-rich AT slices linking overlooks along the ParkwayModerate · 7.9 mi · 5 hr
2.8 mi awayThunder Ridge Nature TrailBlink-and-you’re-there loop to a stone deck and huge valley views.Easy · 0.1 mi · 10 min
3.9 mi awayFallingwater Cascades LoopShort, shaded waterfall loop with a punchy climb and lush rhododendron.Moderate · 1.3 mi · 51 min
