This was a nice hike of about 2 miles to the falls. It gets very steep at points and has a combination of steps and rugged terrain. There are a few terraces to stop at and rest and enjoy the views. It is a little stenuous but its worth it if you can make it to the top. There are markers along the way to let you know how far youve gone on the 1.7 mile trek. Its definately recommended you have good shoes and plenty of water. The views are amazing and you can see some wildlife as well the hike is located in the goerge washington national park. Be careful of the drive in to the park. The roads are very windy with large hills and are one lane eachdirectionn very fun day all around. Kids will love it.
It's a workout for sure, but was worth every moment!!! Bring lunch for the top and water! Don't forget a camera! Great trip!
Crabtree Falls is 1000-foot cascading waterfall in the George Washington National Forest. Although you can't see the entire thing at once, all combined, it is the highest waterfall in the eastern United States. Note that there is a $3 day use fee to park at the recreation area, payable at self-serve kiosks. Don't forget to bring small bills for the fee. From the trailhead, the Crabtree Falls Trail (#526) follows the waterfall all the way up. The trail is 1.7 miles from the start to the top of the falls and includes a number of switchbacks and stairs. The first part of the trail is paved and handicapped-accessible leading to the base of the lowest portion of the falls. After this point, the trail becomes more difficult, heading up along the waterfall via switchbacks and steps. Please stay on the trail while hiking up to prevent erosion and environmental harm as well as for personal safety - numerous fatalities have occurred here from people getting off trail and falling. Altogether, there are five distinct major cascades and countless smaller ones over the course of the waterfall and a number of overlooks to view them. At the top, there is another overlook. You can't see the waterfall from here, but the views of the surrounding mountains are gorgeous. We visited in the winter. Although there was no snow on the ground, the air temperature was cold enough that much of the waterfall had frozen and it was absolutely beautiful.
Good waterfall; great view; Not good for old people or with a child; Pack lot of water and energy drinks
Just hiked Crabtree with my family and my brother in-law and his family and it was really amazing. Age range for the kids 18, 16, 13 and 7 years-old and all were happy....that in itself made the hike enjoyable. Definitely a good steep trail that you need to mind your footing on, but the pace and vista stops were really great. My daughter kept asking if there was a payoff view and boy-o-boy there was a terrific view up top. Highly recommend this climb to anyone, experienced climber or not. $3 fee for the park service is totally worth it, but pay a bit more so this spot will be available for a long time to come!
Easy access to the lower falls, more spectacular the higher you go. Trail gets more challenging towards the top. Would like to be there when the water was flowing more, but still very beautiful!
I have made 4 trips to see the falls and have yet to make it to the top. After seeing the photos that have been posted it must be awesome in the fall with the leaf colors. I have enjoyed the area below the parking section with the bridge that was brought in from NY (See photo). The hike up is pretty strenuous so be prepared!
Very nice way to spend an afternoon. Saw all different ages, sizes, shapes, of hikers. There are many places to stop and take a break if you need to. It would be great if there was a little snack shack at the top! That way, we wouldn't have to lug water bottles/snacks with us. It is a pretty hike and we will definitely do it again!
It's a long way up and I didn't make it. The trial is well maintained. I imagine it can get crowded during peak vacation time. Bring water. You also must pay $3 to park and put the cash into an envelope then into a lock box. So plan to have $3 with you.
This is a fun hike with great views of several waterfalls. Not too difficult. Kids would have no problem. A little crowded on weekends.