Sugar Hollow

Directions to Sugar Hollow Swimming Holes, Virginia

Driving Directions:

1. From I-64 (between Waynesboro and Charlottesville): - Take Exit 107 onto Route 250 East toward Crozet. - Turn left (north) onto Route 240, continuing toward Crozet.

2. In Crozet: - When Route 240 makes a right turn, continue straight onto Route 810. - Follow Route 810 to the town of White Hall.

3. At White Hall: - Turn left (west) onto Route 614. - Look for an old white building labeled "Piedmont Store." At this point, the main road makes a sharp right turn. Do not follow the main road to the right. Instead, take the smaller road to the left of the store, which is still Route 614, now called Sugar Hollow Road.

4. On Sugar Hollow Road: - Follow this road along the Moorman’s River for approximately 4.7 miles until you reach the Charlottesville Reservoir. - Continue driving past the dam and reservoir. Look for a dirt parking area under the trees with signs nearby. This is the parking area for the trails.

Trail Information and Swimming Holes:

Once parked, you will have access to two trails: the North Fork Moorman’s River Trail and the South Fork Moorman’s River Trail. Both trails lead to swimming holes.

North Fork Moorman’s River Trail

1. From the parking area, walk up the continuation of the road you were driving on.
2. Shortly, you will see a sign indicating you are entering Shenandoah National Park.
3. Follow the trail along the North Fork of the Moorman’s River. - Swimming Hole #2 ("Snake Hole"): Less than a mile from the parking area, the trail crosses the river for the second time. This is where you’ll find the first swimming hole. - Swimming Hole #3: Continue along the trail (now on the right side of the river) for a short distance to reach the next swimming hole. - Swimming Hole #4 (Big Branch Falls): Approximately 1.8 miles from the parking lot, you’ll reach Big Branch Falls. This 40-foot waterfall has a pool at its base that is 2–3 feet deep, perfect for cooling off.

South Fork Moorman’s River Trail

1. From the parking area, head south and immediately cross the river using the rocks.
2. Climb up the steep bank on the far side to reach the fire road, which serves as the trail.
3. Follow the fire road uphill, continuing straight (do not take the road that veers off to the left). - Swimming Hole #5 ("Blue Hole"): About 1.5 miles from the parking lot, you’ll find Blue Hole on the right side of the trail. This spot features cascades, a large, deep pool, and surrounding rocks. It is a popular location for swimming and carefully jumping from rocks. Bathing suits are customary here. - Swimming Hole #6: Continue up the trail, crossing the stream again as you enter Shenandoah National Park. Approximately 2.0 miles from the parking area, you’ll find another set of falls just before the junction with the Turk Branch Trail. - Swimming Hole #7: On the Turk Branch Trail, about 0.3 miles in, you’ll find another set of falls where the trail crosses the stream.

Note: Swimming Holes #6 and #7 are not deep enough for swimming but are pleasant spots to cool off and enjoy the scenery.

Parking and Final Notes: - The dirt parking area near the reservoir is the starting point for both trails. - Be mindful of trail signs and landmarks to ensure you stay on the correct paths. - Please respect the natural environment by packing out all trash and leaving the area as you found it.

Coordinates for Blue Hole (Swimming Hole #5):
Latitude: 38.1218, Longitude: -78.7645
Google Maps Link

Enjoy your visit to Sugar Hollow and its beautiful swimming holes!