How To Beat The Southern Heat At Roaring Run Falls’ Natural Pools

Mariana Toledo
Jul 25, 2017 · 3 min read
Roaring Run Falls in the Jefferson National Forest

This past week in Roanoke has been almost unbearable thanks to our unwanted friends, heat and humidity. The rivers have been crowded with folks trying to beat the heat. So what is one to do? My choice was to avoid the crowds and go to the natural waterfalls and swimming holes of Roaring Run Falls.

Tucked away in the George Washing and Jefferson National Forests, Roaring Run Recreation Area is set among large shady hemlocks and birches on the creek’s edge, and boasts spectacular waterfalls and swimming holes. Two trails lead you to the falls, creating a 1.5 mile family-friendly loop nature walk.

We made our way up the falls using the stream side trail. I love the sound of roaring water and this this would be a nice tranquil nature walk up to the falls. Along the stream side trail we came across nature at its best. There were stone bridges, rock faces, and my favorite — roaring waters.

There were some swimmers and even fishermen taking advantage of the falls as we crossed a few foot bridges to make my way up to one of the falls and tried to bask in the refreshing waters under the cool shady trees. No regrets here.

After a few hours of rambling and playing about the falls, we decided to take the wooded trail back down to the parking lot and rest area. If you like history, then this is the perfect trail for you!

Roaring Run Iron Furnace

As you take the wooded trail back down, it travels into the shaded forest (a bonus on a hot day), passing a panoramic overlook and the Historic Roaring Run Iron Furnace. The Furnace is a 19th century iron furnace which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. We had some fun exploring this area and reading about how the furnace operated.

After a nice long day of outdoor rec, we packed up the car and made the trek back home to Roanoke. A day well spent playing in the woods!

For more lifestyle and travel articles, visit my blog — Foodventured.

Foodventured — where we love delicious foods and last minute adventures. We’re fueled by copious amounts of coffee, Spotify, wine, and dog cuddles. Come embrace the culture, lifestyle, and quirks of the South.

Mariana Toledo

Written by

Lifestyle and travel blogger, fueled by copious amounts of coffee, spotify, wine, and dog cuddles. Foodventured.com

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