New Market Safety Area South
Parking lot
I-81, Timberville, VA 22853

Background: generated illustration, not a photograph of this location.
Plan the Mountain Run waterfall walk at Fridley Gap with corrected trail directions and practical cautions for this undeveloped creek setting.
Swimming restriction
Harrisonburg Tourism lists swimming at Fridley Gap. This is not a current water-quality report or a guarantee of suitable conditions.
Location
A closer look
Photos show past visits, not current water levels or swimming conditions. Select a photo to view it larger.



This is a desk-researched listing. A record update or map check does not confirm current swimming permission or water conditions.
Found an error? Send a correction with the location and a source. How we research listings.
Mountain Run is the waterfall-pool stop described in Harrisonburg Tourism's Fridley Gap guide. The destination combines a short forest walk with a natural creek setting, not a developed beach.
The short out-and-back and the longer mountain loop are different outings. Use the approach notes below, check current trail notices and allow for rocky footing. Do not mistake a short route for an accessible or hazard-free one.
The tourism guide includes swimming, but it does not establish pool depth, tested water quality or lifeguard coverage. We do not recommend jumping or diving. If access or conditions are uncertain, keep the visit to the trail and waterfall views.
Carry drinking water and what you need for the walk. Do not rely on a photograph to judge water depth or on a previous visitor's experience to judge today's conditions. Check fees, pet rules and camping permissions separately with the managing authority.
Use the Fridley Gap trailhead at the end of Airey Lane, as described by Harrisonburg Tourism. Follow the purple-blazed trail east, keeping right at the junction about 0.2 miles from the parking area. The short waterfall walk is not the full mountain loop. Check current trail notices and follow posted signs rather than relying on older road-turn instructions.
Harrisonburg Tourism identifies a dirt parking area at Airey Lane. Creek access is by a rocky trail, not a vehicle-accessible swimming entry. Confirm current conditions before visiting.
Confirm the entrance, parking arrangements, and legal access with the land manager. A map pin does not establish a public right of access. Follow posted routes and never block gates or driveways.
Harrisonburg Tourism lists swimming at Fridley Gap. This is not a current water-quality report or a guarantee of suitable conditions. Public park access does not necessarily include permission to swim. Respect private property and posted restrictions.
Water conditions can change quickly. This listing does not provide a current safety or water-quality assessment. Check official alerts and avoid entering water when conditions or permission are uncertain.
Bring sturdy water shoes to protect your feet on rocks and slippery surfaces. A waterproof dry bag keeps your phone, keys, and valuables safe. Pack a quick-dry towel, sun protection, and drinking water - never drink from the natural water source.
Nearby places from saved public map data, not necessarily facilities at the swimming spot. Confirm access, hours, fees, and amenities with the operator before you drive.
Map data retrieved 2026-06-15
Parking lot
I-81, Timberville, VA 22853
Parking lot
7625 US-211, Luray, VA 22835
Parking lot
I-81, Timberville, VA 22853
Hiking area
New Market, VA 22844
Hiking area
3221 E Lee Hwy, New Market, VA 22844
Hiking area
Virginia 22650
Campground
1800 Endless Caverns Rd, New Market, VA 22844
A 6-mile natural tunnel system accessible through seasonal guided tours, with an on-site campground.
Campground
168 Industrial Park Rd, Mt Jackson, VA 22842
Reported fee information: Current fee not confirmed by the reviewed source. Verify current pricing with the managing agency before your visit.
Harrisonburg Tourism lists swimming at Fridley Gap. This is not a current water-quality report or a guarantee of suitable conditions.
Mountain Run is a creek/falls on Mountain Run located in Virginia, near Harrisonburg. Plan the Mountain Run waterfall walk at Fridley Gap with corrected trail directions and practical cautions for this undeveloped creek setting.
Seasonal planning notes: Choose your visit around current weather, access notices and trail conditions. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather. Check current conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.
Reported facilities at Mountain Run include: Bring your own drinking water and supplies. Do not assume a managed beach, changing room or lifeguard service. Amenities can change - contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.
Confirm current camping rules with the land manager before planning an overnight stay.
Waterfall and woodland views from permitted routes.
Stay on established routes and remove your litter.
Browse every listed natural swimming spot in Virginia.
Compare nearby options around Harrisonburg before you choose a route.
Find similar creeks destinations across the directory.
See under-the-radar places and local favorites in the same state.
Compare easier-access destinations and safer planning options.
Explore waterfall-focused swimming destinations in Virginia.
Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
Confirm current camping rules with the land manager before planning an overnight stay.
Loading weather data…
Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
Joshua Havens created Hidden Swimming Holes to make it easier for people to find — and safely visit — natural freshwater swimming destinations across the United States. He researches access conditions, water quality resources, and land management rules so you don't have to start from scratch. He holds a strong belief that good outdoor recreation information should be accurate, honest about its limitations, and freely available.
Discover other amazing natural swimming destinations across America