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Whiteoak Canyon -> Cedar Run Loop (Whiteoak - Cedar Run Circuit)
Hiking Trail
Hard
7.64 mi
2,377 ft
A spectacular hike with eight waterfalls and plenty of summer swimming holes.
White Oak Canyon is one of the most talked-about hikes in all of Shenandoah National Park. This circuit includes six waterfalls "ranging from 35 to 86 feet and many smaller cascades along the Whiteoak Canyon Trail," according to the NPS. It's also "one of the most popular places to hike in Shenandoah National Park," they continue. There are countless swimming holes along the route, though you should expect some company during the warmer months due to its popularity. The lower trailhead (as mapped) is the most common place to start. Parking is limited, and some spaces require a fee. You could also begin on Skyline Drive at Hawksbill Gap, milepost 45.6. Nearby [Hawksbill Mountain]( is another excellent day hike that begins from the same trailhead. Starting from the lower trailhead, this loop pairs Whiteoak Canyon Trail and Cedar Run Trail, plus a little bit of fire road in the middle. It can be hiked in either direction, though counter-clockwise would offer the best views of the waterfalls since you'll be hiking towards them. Another spin on this route could be to shuttle the Whiteoak Canyon Trail between Skyline Drive and the lower trailhead. Leave a car at one end, and start your hike from the other. [Source]( Written by Brendon Voelker
White Oak Canyon is one of the most talked-about hikes in all of Shenandoah National Park. This circuit includes six waterfalls "ranging from 35 to 86 feet and many smaller cascades along the Whiteoak Canyon Trail," according to the NPS. It's also "one of the most popular places to hike in Shenandoah National Park," they continue. There are countless swimming holes along the route, though you should expect some company during the warmer months due to its popularity. The lower trailhead (as mapped) is the most common place to start. Parking is limited, and some spaces require a fee. You could also begin on Skyline Drive at Hawksbill Gap, milepost 45.6. Nearby [Hawksbill Mountain]( is another excellent day hike that begins from the same trailhead. Starting from the lower trailhead, this loop pairs Whiteoak Canyon Trail and Cedar Run Trail, plus a little bit of fire road in the middle. It can be hiked in either direction, though counter-clockwise would offer the best views of the waterfalls since you'll be hiking towards them. Another spin on this route could be to shuttle the Whiteoak Canyon Trail between Skyline Drive and the lower trailhead. Leave a car at one end, and start your hike from the other. [Source]( Written by Brendon Voelker
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Strava Routes
Route and Elevation
Segments
| Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Rag Rd Climb | 1.73 mi | 925 ft | 10.1% |
| White oak short loop | 7.12 mi | -2,142 ft | 0.0% |
| Weakley Hollow Road Climb | 0.48 mi | 157 ft | 6.0% |
| Old Rag Road Climb | 0.52 mi | 223 ft | 7.8% |
| Old Rag Road Climb | 0.32 mi | 226 ft | 13.1% |
| Skyline Dr Climb | 1.43 mi | 830 ft | 10.9% |
| Whiteoak Fire Rd Climb | 1.56 mi | 728 ft | 8.8% |
| Skyline Drive Climb | 0.78 mi | 282 ft | 6.8% |
| Horse Trail to Cedar Run | 0.61 mi | 82 ft | 0.3% |
| Cedar Run Descent to 1st Ford | 1.46 mi | -1,191 ft | -15.4% |