If you’re looking for an easy waterfall hike near Roanoke in Virginia’s Blue Ridge, I love the Roaring Run Falls Trail, and I think you will too. It’s a scenic route that follows a stream with tumbling cascades and crosses some wooden bridges on the way to the falls. Plus, there’s a historic iron ore furnace nearby!
Getting There
Roaring Run is about a 45-minute drive from Roanoke. There’s a parking lot at the day-use area plus picnic tables and vault toilets. There’s no entrance fee, but since this is a popular spot, it’s best to visit early, especially on weekends.
Taking the Streamside Trail to Roaring Run Falls (Primary Route)
The most popular (and scenic) way to hike to Roaring Run Falls is to take the Streamside Trail—about 3⁄4-mile each way— and that’s what I did. The shaded forest walk follows the stream where water tumbles over creek boulders in mini cascades—so pretty! I could hear the rushing water the entire way to the falls.
The trail also takes you across wooden bridges that straddle the creek and flowing waters. It’s so beautiful!
At the end, you’ll reach the main attraction: Roaring Run Falls, a stunning 30-foot cascade tumbling into a rocky pool. We relaxed (and climbed) on the boulders and took tons of photos (including a group photo) before we took the same trail back to the parking lot.
Returning via the Woodland Trail (Optional Loop Route)
If you prefer a quieter return route, you can take the Woodland Trail back. This peaceful path winds through a shaded forest, offering a tranquil alternative to the Streamside Trail. Along the way, you’ll pass the historic Roaring Run iron ore furnace.
Seeing the Iron Ore Furnace from the Parking Area (Alternate Route)
If you don’t want to take the Woodland Trail but still want to see the furnace, you can reach it from the parking lot via a short trail. The Roaring Run iron ore furnace, built in 1832 and rebuilt several times, is a single-stack, hot-blast charcoal furnace made of large squared stones. It’s definitely worth a quick visit if you’re interested in local history. There’s signage near the furnace explaining how it was used to make pig iron.
Final Thoughts and Tips
Roaring Run Falls is a great hike year-round, but it’s especially beautiful in the spring when the water is flowing strong and in the fall when the leaves are changing colors. The trail is easy enough for kids and beginner hikers, but sturdy shoes are a good idea since some sections can be rocky or wet. Whether you take the Streamside Trail out and back or make it a loop with the Woodland Trail, this hike is a perfect mix of nature and history—not to mention a great way to spend a few hours outdoors!
Where to Stay
After your hike, if you’re looking for a cozy place to stay, I highly recommend the historic Hotel Roanoke in downtown Roanoke. It’s centrally located, close to attractions, and offers ultra-comfy rooms. Check out my full review here: Spotlight Stay: Hotel Roanoke
Comments & Reviews
The split waterfall is a sight!! I’d love to see it. I will admit, you had me down a rabbit hole. I had to explore pig iron, then what it was made for, if it was still used today, if we still used blast furnaces, how bad they are for the environment and whether or not people have ruined their lungs who work in them (because I found out we do still use them today). Interesting find… I love little pieces of history.
Wow, you really DID go down a rabbit hole! I love historical tidbits too!