Jones Run Trail

This gentle to moderate descent leads visitors through a bit of natural history. Since the area that is now Shenandoah National Park used to be pasture land, visitors will be able to descend through young forests, cross creeks and enjoy this shady trail on their way to the falls. The Appalachian Trail (AT) crosses the Jones Run Trail just a few yards from its start. Cross the AT and, after about half a mile, cross Jones Run. The trail follows an old road trace for another third of a mile, then swings left and continues downhill through a very young forest that was a pasture when the park was created. After joining the stream on your left, continue another 0.2 mile to the head of the falls. The trail swings sharp right, then makes a switchback to the left and returns to the base of the falls where there is a concrete marker post. Jones Run drops about 42 feet over a nearly vertical cliff that crosses the gorge and continues for a distance down the left bank of the stream. Where the cliff is watered by spray from the falls, it's covered with a great variety of mosses and flowering plants. Return by the way you came, or you can opt to access the Doyles River 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.