Crabtree Falls are a truly beautiful series of waterfalls an hour outside of Charlottesville.

Take the trip to Crabtree Falls to explore the beauty of these Virginia falls. The trail entrance begins at the parking lot, and after a short distance, you will come across a viewing platform where you can view the lower falls. About three-quarters of a mile of snacking path from there will bring you to another viewing platform at the top of the lower falls.  Continuing another mile you will pass the base of the upper falls and then make your way to the top for gorgeous views of the region. This is a good place to turn back if you want to keep the hike under four miles, but if you'd prefer to push on you can follow for as long as you wish along the creek and you can continue on to the meadow campground where you can turn back for about a six-mile hike, or push on where you meet the historic Appalachian Trail.

Please make it clear to children of all ages that staying on the trail and firmly planted on the overlooks is important because the rocks adjacent to the overlooks can be very slippery and it is extremely unsafe to climb out in an effort to get closer.

The kids will especially love the cave along the way, and while there are parts that can be somewhat strenuous for little legs, the views and anticipation of getting to the top of the falls seem to keep motivation high. 

Dogs are welcome but must remain leashed.