Shenandoah National Park

Virginia • https://www.nps.gov/shen

Shenandoah National Park, nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, is a captivating natural wonderland that enthralls visitors with its breathtaking beauty and abundant biodiversity. Established in 1935, the park spans over 200,000 acres of pristine wilderness, boasting cascading waterfalls, verdant forests, and sweeping panoramic vistas that stretch for miles. Rich with cultural history, the park is home to remnants of Appalachian mountain life, including historic cabins and stone walls, offering glimpses into the past.

Information & Tips:

Driving Skyline Drive (the main road in the park) costs $30/vehicle to enter
Skyline Drive is 105 miles long with mile 0 located at Front Royal, VA and mile 105 at Rock Fish Gap, VA. Speed limit is generally 35mph with occasional 45mph zones
Big Meadows Wayside has blackberry ice cream and cobbler available so be sure to stop. Yum
Gas is available at the Big Meadows Gas Station at mile 51.2
Get to hikes early as some can get very crowded and the peaks/viewpoints can get filled with people
It’s better to bring food for the day into the park as there are lots of places to pull off and eat. From picnic areas with bathrooms to roadside overlooks
Take your time, slow down and enjoy the drive as much as the hikes

Recommended Trails:

Marys Rock Summit Hike – Alternate [mile 33.5]: 2.9 mile out & back with 830′ elevation gain. Spectacular 360° views of the valley, skyline drive and surrounding area
Stony Man Hike [mile 41.6]: 1.6 mile loop with 340′ elevation gain. After getting on the AT make sure to continue on the blue-blazed Stony Man Trail to the viewpoint
Upper Hawksbill to Hawksbill Summit Hike [mile 46.5]: 2.1 mile out & back with 520′ elevation gain. Hike to some impressive and beautiful views of the area
Dark Hollow Falls Trail [mile 50.8]: 1.4 mile out & back with 440′ elevation gain to a 60′ waterfall. This trail is short, but very steep and rocky. The return climb is challenging! No pets
Bearfence Rock Scramble Hike [mile 56.4]: 1.4 mile loop with 311′ elevation gain. Hike includes a rock scramble to a 360 degree view
Blackrock Summit [mile 84.4]: 1 mile loop with 175′ elevation gain. Hike around a boulder field where you can see the layers and quartzite patterns on the rocks and a beautiful view