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Shenandoah National Park adventures

Shenandoah National Park Adventures

Shenandoah National Park offers breathtaking vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains and lush, expansive woodlands, making it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

199,200
Acres Protected
500+
Miles of Trails
1.4 million
Annual Visitors
1935
Year Established

Popular Activities

Plan Your Visit

Everything you need to know to prepare for an unforgettable trip to Shenandoah National Park.

Entrance Requirements

Fee required; America the Beautiful pass accepted.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and fall for temperate weather and seasonal color; summer for all park amenities.

Visitor Information

Dickey Ridge Visitor Center, Byrd Visitor Center

Getting There

Accessible via US Route 340 and I-66; Skyline Drive may close due to snow and ice.

Weather & Climate

Summers are warm and humid; winters can bring snow and cold temperatures. Fall offers vibrant foliage and mild weather, while spring sees blooming wildflowers and cooler conditions.

Conservation Efforts

Concerns include invasive species, climate change impacting native wildlife, and managing visitor impact to preserve natural resources and habitats.

Camping in Shenandoah National Park

Find the perfect spot to stay overnight and immerse yourself in the details.

Big Meadows

Developed
Reservations Required

Situated near Byrd Visitor Center with access to several trails.

Matthew's Arm

Developed
Reservations Required

Closest to the northern entrance of the park, ideal for first-time visitors.

Top Trails

Old Rag Mountain

Hard
9.1 miles

Features rocky scrambles and a strenuous ascent but offers outstanding summit views.

Hawksbill Mountain

Moderate
2.9 miles

Climb to the highest peak in the park for exceptional vistas.

Dark Hollow Falls

Easy
1.4 miles

A brief but steep trail leading to picturesque falls.

White Oak Canyon

Moderate
4.6 miles

Pass a series of waterfalls with multiple viewing points along the trail.

Trailblazer Tips

Visit during midweek to avoid weekend crowds on popular trails.

Fall foliage season is spectacular but expect crowded conditions and plan for lodging in advance.

Campground spots fill quickly; reserve as early as you can, especially in peak seasons.

Bring a map and compass, as GPS can be unreliable in remote parts of the park.

Helpful Resources