About Big Rock Falls
Big Rock Falls is a named waterfall in Madison County, Virginia, located about 7.0 miles southeast of Stanley. The U.S. Geological Survey records it on the Fletcher 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle at 38°29′43″ N, 78°25′22″ W (38.49540, -78.42278). Named features close by in the federal gazetteer include Laurel Prong (stream, 0.4 mi), Mill Prong (stream, 0.4 mi), and Broyles Gap (gap, 0.8 mi). The nearest other waterfall in this directory is Dark Hollow Falls, 1.6 miles to the north.
More Photos
12 visitor photos are available on the Google Maps listing.
Weather at Big Rock Falls
Full NWS forecastForecast for the waterfall's exact location, not the nearest town. Mountain weather can change quickly.
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Source: National Weather Service.
Conditions at Big Rock Falls
Sun and Daylight Today
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Times in New York time. Canyons and steep valleys lose direct sun earlier.
Elevation
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At the mapped waterfall point, from the USGS 3D Elevation Program. Expect cooler temperatures than in nearby towns at lower elevation.
Nearest Stream Gauge
Checking for USGS gauges within about 8 miles...
Live discharge in cubic feet per second (ft³/s). The gauge may be on a different stream than the falls; use the trend as a rough guide to how much water is running in the area.
Map and Directions
The marker shows the USGS-recorded position of Big Rock Falls. Trailheads and parking can be some distance from the falls themselves, so plan your route with an up-to-date trail map.
Visitor Ratings
Big Rock Falls holds a 5.0 average from 1 Google reviews. Distribution by star rating:
Named Landmarks Nearby
These named features from the USGS Geographic Names Information System lie within two miles of Big Rock Falls. Stream positions mark the stream's mouth as recorded by USGS.
- Laurel Prong — stream, 0.4 mi
- Mill Prong — stream, 0.4 mi
- Broyles Gap — gap, 0.8 mi
- The Laurels — basin, 1.0 mi
- Fork Mountain — summit, 1.2 mi
- Milam Gap — gap, 1.3 mi
- The Sag — gap, 1.4 mi
- Doubletop Mountain — summit, 1.4 mi
Before You Visit
- Water levels change quickly. Flow is usually strongest after rain and during snowmelt; see the best time to visit waterfalls.
- Stay back from the brink and off wet rock. Our waterfall safety guide covers the most common hazards.
- Check land ownership and access before you go. Some named falls sit on private property or in areas without a maintained trail.
- Download offline maps and save the coordinates 38.49540, -78.42278. Use our waterfall hike packing list.
Waterfalls Near Big Rock Falls
- Upper Whiteoak Falls, VA5.7 mi northeast
- Dry Run Falls, VA8.8 mi southwest
- South River Falls, VA9.1 mi southwest
- Cedar Falls, VA9.5 mi southwest
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Big Rock Falls located?
Big Rock Falls is in Madison County, Virginia, about 7.0 miles southeast of Stanley. Its coordinates are 38.49540, -78.42278 (38°29′43″ N, 78°25′22″ W).
What town is closest to Big Rock Falls?
The closest town with 1,000 or more residents is Stanley, VA, about 7.0 miles away in a straight line. Driving distance is usually longer, so check the route before you go.
What waterfalls are near Big Rock Falls?
The closest is Dark Hollow Falls (1.6 mi north). Others within reach include Lewis Spring Falls (2.3 mi), Rose River Falls (2.6 mi), and Climbing Rose Falls (3.5 mi).
Which USGS topographic map shows Big Rock Falls?
Big Rock Falls appears on the USGS Fletcher 7.5-minute quadrangle. You can view it in The National Map viewer or download the US Topo sheet for offline navigation.