White Oak Canyon, Shenandoah National Park

by Keith Lemelin
(Richmond, VA)

The main waterfall in White Oak Canyon, viewed from the bottom.

You can either head east (and downhill) from Shenandoah drive, or west (and uphill) from the bottom of the trailhead to get to the main waterfall of White Oak Canyon. There are numerous smaller waterfalls on the trail, but the one in the photo is the main attraction. Starting on the western portion, you can go to this fall, and then turn back. I did that my first visit, but found starting at the bottom and going up first was a more rewarding trip. The trail is a steep one, but well marked and well maintained.

The photo shown was taken from the bottom of the falls. The main overlook that provides the view of the falls is somewhat of a distance from the falls themselves. I climbed down on the right side of the falls and was able to get a much nicer view from the bottom. I wouldn't recommend that to everyone. The rocks can be slippery near the bottom from the water mist, and I almost broke my camera attempting the climb.