Moormans River Overnight Loop via Appalachian Trail is a 16.5 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Grottoes, Virginia that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
dogs on leash
backpacking
birding
camping
hiking
nature trips
walking
forest
views
waterfall
wild flowers
Followed the NPS recommendation for this loop. Start at Turk Gap parking, north along AT, over to North Fork Moorman's, then picking up South Fork Moorman's trail for a very beautiful final 7ish miles. There's some great secluded swimming along this loop, but maybe I shouldn't say exactly where? Have fun!
Oh, and while parts of the trail are easy as noted by AllTrails, the full loop is moderately strenuous, especially the final elevation gain.
We did 4 miles out and and back for the sole purpose of swimming. Falls were low at the end of June, but there are plenty of beautiful spots to plunge in along the way.
Easy hike. The watering hole is great for kids and pets.
We did a shorter hike. It was about 2.5 miles from the parking lot near the reservoir. 3 river crossings, lots of beautiful swimming holes (including one at the bottom of Big Branch Falls.)