Lewis Spring Pumphouse Road

This gravel service road provides the easiest access to Lewis Spring Falls, though the slightly longer Lewis Falls Trail circuit trail from the Big Meadows amphitheater area is suggested. Follow the road downhill, which crosses a horse trail and also the Appalachian Trail. You'll pass a short side trail on the left that goes about 100 feet to Lewis Spring. It's completely enclosed; you'll hear gushing water behind the padlocked door. This spring is not only the principal source of water for the Big Meadows development; it's also the source of Hawksbill Creek, which forms Lewis Spring Falls and then, much later, flows through the town of Luray before joining the Shenandoah River. Continue 30 yards to a locked door in the hillside on your right; behind it is a pump for the Big Meadows water supply that sends most of the output of Lewis Spring up to the underground storage tanks on Blackrock. After another 30 yards you can opt to turn left onto the blue-blazed Lewis Falls Trail. Thanks to Larry W. Brown, for sharing this trail description. If you're interested in learning more details about great hikes, weather, camping / lodging, wildlife, and scenic drives, check out the comprehensive Guide to Shenandoah National Park.