Pros & cons
PROS
- Graceful 28-foot cascade in a lush ravine
- Easy to pair with the taller Lower Doyles River Falls
CONS
- Steady uphill climb on the return
- Flow can be thin in late summer
Overview
Upper Doyles River Falls is the first of two waterfalls you’ll hit on the Doyles River Trail, a pretty 28-foot cascade tucked into a shady, mossy ravine. It’s smaller and generally quieter than the lower falls, which makes it a nice spot to linger without the bustle.
Getting There
Start from the Doyles River Parking Area on Skyline Drive around milepost 81.1. The trail drops from the road and crosses the Appalachian Trail before following Doyles River down to the falls. Expect a meaningful descent on the way out and a steady climb back.
The Hike & What You’ll See
The path winds through hardwood forest with the river keeping you company—there are a few little cascades en route and a stream crossing near the falls that can require careful footing when water is up. Upper Doyles River Falls presents as a broad, photogenic sheet of water spilling over rock ledges; continue farther if you want to tag the bigger, 63-foot Lower Doyles River Falls on the same outing.
Why It’s Worth It
Compared to some of Shenandoah’s marquee drops, the upper falls feels intimate and serene. Photographers like the view from just above the lip, and the surrounding greenery really pops in spring after rains.
Wildlife
This corridor is good for white‑tailed deer, wild turkeys, and songbirds; keep your eyes open for salamanders and frogs around the stream. Black bears roam the South District—rare sightings do happen—so give wildlife space and keep food secured.
Best Time to Visit
Spring through early summer, or anytime after a good rain, delivers the best flow and color. Aim for early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer people; weekends can be busy. Late summer can run low.
Photography Tips
Bring a tripod or use rocks for long exposures, and work the angles from above and along the stream for leading lines. Overcast days are gold here—the forest acts like a natural softbox.
Know Before You Go
There are no facilities at the falls. The hike is short-but-worky: save energy for the uphill return, and expect rocks, roots, and a potentially slick stream crossing after rain.
Where it is
38.2382, -78.6914Tips for Upper Doyles River Falls
- 01Start at Doyles River Parking (MP 81.1) and budget time to see both falls.
- 02Go after rain or in spring for the best flow and mossy greens.
- 03Wear grippy footwear—rocks and the stream crossing can be slick.
- 04Download an offline map; cell service is spotty along the ravine.
- 05Save water and snacks for the climb back up.
Amenities
Near Upper Doyles River Falls
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayLower Doyles River FallsThe taller, dramatic drop on a rewarding out-and-back waterfall hikeScenic Viewpoint
0 mi awayDoyles River FallsTwo waterfalls, one hike, with lush Blue Ridge cascadesTrailhead · Parking
0.6 mi awayDoyles River OverlookSweeping south-facing vista over historic Browns CoveTrailhead · Pullout
0.9 mi awayJones Run FallsShady hike to a 42‑foot cascade with room to lingerTrailhead · Parking
1.1 mi awayLewis Peak TrailBig views and real solitude from a rugged south-district summitChallenging · 9.1 mi · 4.5 hr
1.1 mi awayBig Run–Rockytop Loop TrailRemote Shenandoah loop with ridge views, big creek, and real effortChallenging · 10.2 mi · 6 hr
1.1 mi awayBig Run LoopQuiet loop to Big Run's deep woods with overlook bookendsChallenging · 5.8 mi · 4 hr
1.2 mi awayDoyles River TrailShady creekside trek to two classic Shenandoah waterfallsModerate · 3.3 mi · 2.2 hr
