If you enjoy hiking at Virginia State Parks, you may wish to consider the grand reward of discovering magnificent waterfalls.

The best time to see a waterfall is typically after heavy rain, which, fortunately for us, is a regular event in the hot summer months in Virginia. But any time is a good time to go outside to enjoy nature and the beauty of the great outdoors.

Follow along as we go for a walk in the woods and explore some fantastic waterfalls at Virginia State Parks.

1. | LITTLE MOUNTAIN FALLS - Fairy Stone State Park

Little Mountain Falls at Fairy Stone State Park.

Take advantage of the other scenic viewpoints along the trail to see these falls.

Little Mountain Falls has been called "Big Mountain Little Falls" by some hikers at Fairy Stone State Park. There is quite a bit of leg power required before arriving at the falls, so it is considered a difficult and fairly lengthy hike at 3.3 miles. For seasoned hikers, it is not super difficult and is a looping trail which is always a crowd-pleaser but not suitable for small children or those with mobility issues.

But the good news is it is a multi-use trail which means hiking, biking and horseback riders are all welcome to visit this gorgeous waterfall. 

Some have been disappointed to make the trek in a dry spell only to find the falls at a mere trickle, so consider the season and the weather to ensure a happier outcome. 

Click here to view the trail guide at Fairy Stone State Park. 

2. | BLUE SUCK FALLS - Douthat State Park

Blue Suck Falls at Douthat State Park is 3.01 miles and rated difficult.

After a rain shower in early spring and summer is the best time to catch the falls freely flowing.

This waterfall at Douthat State Park is not on the easy-hike list. Douthat State Park is popular due to its abundance of hiking and biking trails available to visitors. Many are rated moderate to difficult, and the hike to Blue Suck Falls is no exception; it is 3.01 miles and is rated difficult.

Hikers love to hike with a destination in mind, and this waterfall is one of two on the same trail at this park. If you find yourself here in early summer, the hillside will be alive with one of America's loveliest flowers, native Catawba Rhododendron blooms. 

Click here to view a trail guide for Douthat State Park.

3. | CABIN CREEK FALLS AND WILSON CREEK - Grayson Highlands State Park

Cabin Creek Falls is pretty from any angle.

You can't escape the majesty at Grayson Highlands.

Fly-fishing and exploring Wilson Creek together.

Summertime is the recommended time to hike at Grayson Highlands State Park due to its altitude and possible swift change in temperatures. This park has so much to offer day visitors and backpackers, such as the breathtaking vistas, that the creeks and waterfalls are often overlooked.

You won't be disappointed with a hike to a fall at Grayson Highlands State Park. 

Click here for a trail guide to Grayson Highlands State Park.

4. | LACE FALLS - Natural Bridge State Park

Natural Bridge State Park offers diverse scenery, from natural geological wonders to waterfalls.

Lace Falls magically transforms from a delicate veil to rushing plumes of whitewater.

Enjoy this romantic walk that meanders along Cedar Creek from the bridge to the waterfall.

Just as stunning is a view from the back of the bridge.

One awesome trail allows you to pass under the spectacular bridge and leads you to the waterfall at Natural Bridge State Park. It's a .80-mile trail and accessible for all (rated easy).

In 1774, Thomas Jefferson bought the bridge and 157 surrounding acres from King George III of England for 20 shillings. The bridge passed from one private owner to the next and became a tourist destination. Then on Feb. 6, 2014, the dream to ensure the protection of the bridge in perpetuity came together thanks to the nonprofit Virginia Conservation Legacy Fund and its leader, Tom Clarke. Puglisi gifted the bridge and 188 acres of the property — valued at $21 million — to the fund. The state will not own the Natural Bridge property until the debt is paid off but took over management of about 1,500 acres here on Sept. 24, 2016. 

More than 6 miles of hiking trails wind through the park and provide a glimpse of nature. The Cedar Creek Trail is universally accessible and goes under the Natural Bridge to the Monacan Village, Lost River and Lace Falls. 

The nearly 2 miles of Buck Hill Trail and more than 3 miles of the Monacan Trail offer spectacular views of the Blue Ridge and the Appalachian Mountains. Pack a lunch to take along and enjoy many scenic vistas.

Hint: Take the free shuttle down to the trail and back up, or if you prefer to leg it, you can tackle the 137 steps down that take you along another small cascading fall. - Update for 2022: No shuttle service is available at this time. Accommodations for accessibility can be made upon request to the contact rangers at the Visitor Center.

View a trail guide for Natural Bridge State Park.

BONUS | FALLING SPRING FALLS - Douthat State Park

Falling Spring Falls will take your breath away.

Once owned by King George III of Great Britain.

Known as one of the most scenic waterfalls in the entire state of Virginia, you can easily experience this breathtaking 80-foot fall on Highway 220 near Covington, Virginia, when you're en route to Douthat State Park. Not situated on state park property but was donated along with 19 surrounding acres to Virginia State Parks back in 2004 from Mead Westvaco.

Electricity was generated from the falls to run the lime-crushing plant and to operate an electric railway hauling travertine from the mine. It is now managed by Douthat State Park, and I guarantee Falling Spring Falls will knock your socks off.

This scenic route is popular for motorcycle touring and anyone eager for a crisp mountain road trip during the fall. There are plenty of twists and turns to make it exciting.

Click here for google map directions.