White Oak Canyon-Cedar Run Loop

Go Report

White Oak Canyon and Cedar Run Hike

09/24/2016

We arrived at the trailhead around 0945, and since everyone was there got an early start on the hike, headed up the trailhead northwest towards the Cedar Run and White Oak Canyon trail split. We took a left onto the Cedar Run Falls Trail and headed southwest along a rocky mountain stream with pools and waterfalls

After 20 minutes of mostly moderate hiking-except for a little steep section that challenged us—we arrived at a nice large pool & waterfall and took a water break. Due to the dry conditions, the water flow was below normal, although we could see trout in the pool at the base of the waterfall.

We rested a bet and then we headed back down the trail we just came up to get to the Cedar Run Link Trail

and headed NNE towards White Oak Canyon Trail.  We walked about 20 minutes along the Link Trail which ended at a bridge that crossed the river and we joined up with the White Oak Canyon trail towards the Lower White Oak Falls. This section took about 45 minutes and we arrived at the Lower Falls which consists of a large pool being fed by a pretty large waterfall. The water flow on this part of the hike was much, much better and provided a very comfortable, scenic place to stop. We found a small ledge surrounded by running water and had a relaxing snack.

After lunch we hike all the way up to the upper falls through someone steep, rocky climbs, but nothing too severe.  After about a mile we got to the upper falls, enjoyed the scenery and hiked back to the lower falls which were being utilized by quite a few young guys providing the final great view of the day!

We got back to the trailhead and parking area after 4 hours and about 6.5 miles.

This is a moderate 4 mile hike up White Oak Canyon and back. These are good trails although there are some steep sections. Due to the recent rains, the falls should be pretty full and although the trees will obscure it in places, you’ll always hear it and see it from time to time. http://www.hikingupward.com/snp/whiteoakcedarrun/

We'll meet at 10 AM at the parking area at the base of the trail NW of Syria, VA. 

I’ll have a white 2000 Honda Accord 4-DR or medium green Subaru Forrester.  I'll have on a red t-shirt.

Pack a lunch and plenty of drinking water.  The total time including lunch break should be around 3 hrs.

Shenandoah National Park charges $8/person for entry on foot. 

Pack plenty of water, snacks, and your lunch.  For those who are interested, we’ll stop in Gordonsville on our way back and have a snack at a very nice café and bakery for a well-deserved snack.