A two dollar parking fee and a hour long hike is a small investment when it comes to the ultimate payoff, a view of the thundering 70 foot Upper Cascade Falls. The Cascades Recreation Area, near Pembroke, Virginia, is located in the Jefferson National Forest. The park service road to the left of Little Stony Creek may seem like the easy route to the Upper Falls, but those that pass up the lower trail along the creek miss out on a wonderful scenic hike. This trail has been carved through rock crevices, in and around massive boulders and old trees, while following creek-side and its mossy rocks, bubbling rapids and quiet pools.
A 1996 torrent devastated the lower trail, but the forest service was quick to respond with rebuilding. Three crossing bridges were replaced and the trail repair, all without heavy equipment. Some of the old stairways, carved into the rock, survived, reminding visitors of the fine craftsmanship seen over the years.
Whether you decide between the upper or lower trails, either way the waterfall area views are splendid, a delightful sight that won't disappoint.