The Shadow
MONTEBELLO, Va. (VR) – As the leaves begin to fall and autumn slowly gives way to winter, this will be my final fall day trip article of the year. For our last stop, we’re heading just a little over an hour from the Alleghany Highlands to Crabtree Falls in Montebello, Virginia, where visitors can enjoy one of the most impressive waterfalls in the state.
Located in Nelson County, Crabtree Falls is known for its five major cascades and several smaller waterfalls that drop a combined 1,200 feet along the eastern slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is recognized as one of the tallest cascading waterfall systems east of the Mississippi River.
For those who enjoy the outdoors but aren’t looking for a long hike, Crabtree Falls offers an excellent opportunity to see the waterfalls without traveling far from the parking area. A paved pathway leads visitors a few hundred feet to the first overlook, providing an up-close view of the lower falls.
Those looking for more of an adventure can continue along the approximately 3-mile round-trip trail, which follows Crabtree Creek through a wooded gorge. Along the way, hikers will find several designated overlooks offering different views of the cascading water and surrounding mountains.
The trail becomes more challenging as it climbs, with steep sections, exposed roots and uneven rocks. Visitors planning to complete the hike should wear proper footwear, bring water and allow plenty of time.
For hikers wanting to continue beyond the upper falls, the trail extends another 1.2 miles toward Crabtree Meadows.
One thing visitors need to remember is that the rocks surrounding the waterfalls can be extremely slippery. Staying on the marked trails and behind designated barriers is important, as the area has steep drop-offs.
Crabtree Falls is also a great destination for photography. If you enjoy taking pictures like I do, this is one of those places where you’ll want to bring your camera. Between the waterfalls, wooded trails and mountain scenery, there are plenty of opportunities to capture some impressive photographs.
While peak fall foliage has already passed in many areas of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the remaining autumn colors and fallen leaves still provide a scenic backdrop. Even as the trees begin to lose their leaves, the waterfalls remain the main attraction.
Crabtree Falls is located approximately six miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway near milepost 27. Visitors traveling from the parkway can take Route 56 east for approximately 6.3 miles to the falls.
The recreation area is open daily from dawn until dusk, and a daily parking fee is charged per vehicle. Dogs are welcome but must remain on a leash.
The address is 11581 Crabtree Falls Highway, Montebello, VA 24464. Visitors should be aware that GPS navigation and cellular service can be unreliable in the area, so take my advice and have directions available ahead of time.
As we close out another season of fall day trips, Crabtree Falls offers one final opportunity to enjoy the changing scenery before winter arrives. Whether you’re interested in hiking, photography or simply spending a few hours outdoors, this is another destination worth the short drive from the Alleghany Highlands.
For additional information, visit the U.S. Forest Service website at www.fs.usda.gov.
