South River Falls Circuit

South River Falls Circuit is a 3.3-mile wooded loop from South River Picnic Grounds to the stone-walled observation point above South River Falls, then back by South River Falls Road, South River Fire Road and the Appalachian Trail. The park rates it moderate, with about 910 feet of climbing and one stream crossing; its hiking estimate is 2 hours 15 minutes. I would choose it for a substantial waterfall view and a different way back. The 3.3-mile circuit includes the overlook, not the steep base spur.

Start just below the picnic-ground comfort station at Skyline Drive mile 62.7. Follow the blue-blazed South River Falls Trail, crossing the Appalachian Trail and staying on blue to the stone wall. The overlook sits above the falls. If you want to reach the stream-level basin, continue onto the separate steep, rocky spur; it takes more climbing than the main loop.

From the overlook, continue on the blue trail to the marked trailpost, then turn left onto yellow-blazed South River Falls Road. It joins South River Fire Road; follow that to the Appalachian Trail, turn left, then turn right onto the blue trail to get back to the picnic grounds. The last short stretch retraces the start. Visitors often find this return steadier than climbing back along the full approach, though it still gains ground.

The picnic area has tables, cooking grates and vault toilets; drinking water runs from spring through fall and is shut off for winter. A few visitors report parking can get tight by late morning, so an early start helps on busy days. The park entrance fee is required, and Skyline Drive can close during severe weather. Pets are allowed on a leash no longer than six feet.