Whiteoak Canyon
Syria, Virginia
| Address: | Whiteoak Canyon Trail, Virginia, USA |
| GPS: |
38°33'51.5"N 78°21'51.9"W Maps | Directions |
| State: | Virginia |
National Park
Hike and Swim
Whiteoak Canyon is a beautiful hiking area in Shenandoah National Park. This hike features two very unique waterfalls, Upper Whiteoak Falls and Lower Whiteoak Falls. Lower Whiteoak Falls is a multilevel waterfall with small drops along the way and Upper Whiteoak Falls is a more classic cascading waterfall with a single larger drop.
Hikers can choose whether to hike to just the lower falls or continue on to the upper falls using the same trail. The trail to the lower falls is two miles round trip with a 500 foot elevation gain. The trail to upper falls is a 4.6 mile round trip hike with a 1,040 foot elevation change. Both trails are moderately difficult, with the trail to the upper falls being significantly more strenuous. Hikers need to come prepared with water and snacks. The trails are surrounded by trees on all sides, providing respite from the sun.
A couple of spots along the trail have water deep enough that hikers can enjoy wading in the water. Before entering the water hikers should check depth and flow for their safety. The water here is cool year round, providing hikers with a wonderful way to take a break and cool off.
Whiteoak Canyon is a rewarding hike for those looking to reconnect with nature.
More Information
Shenandoah National Park Itinerary
This Shenandoah National Park Itinerary will help you get started as you plan your vacation to Shenandoah National Park.
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https://myhikes.org/trails/white-oak-canyon-hikeWhiteoak Falls (Lower) (U.S. National Park Service)
An easier hike to the base of the beautiful cascades and lower falls in Whiteoak Canyon. Note that a Park entrance fee is still required.
https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/lower-whiteoak-falls.htmWhiteoak Falls (Upper) (U.S. National Park Service)
This challenging hike to cascades and waterfalls has been popular since the early days of Skyland Resort. This particular hike goes to the upper falls before returning.
https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/upper-whiteoak-falls.htmBe courteous, informed, and prepared. Read trailhead guidelines, stay on the trail, and don't feed the wildlife.
Read More
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel & camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
Directions
From Syria, Virginia
- Head northwest on VA-670 toward State Rte 643 (210 ft)
- Turn right onto State Rte 643 (0.8 mi)
- Turn right to stay on State Rte 643 (4.3 mi)
- Turn left onto VA-231 N (9.9 mi)
- Turn left onto US-522 N (0.7 mi)
- Turn right to stay on US-522 N (0.1 mi)
- Turn left onto US-211 W (7.0 mi)
- Take the Skyline Drive exit toward Shenandoah Nat'l Pk (0.2 mi)
- Keep left at the fork and merge onto Skyline Dr (13.8 mi)
- Turn left onto Whiteoak Fire RdRestricted usage roadDestination will be on the left(1.8 mi)
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