National Parks Journal
Photo: NPS Photo / Neal Lewis
Shenandoah National Park
Just 75 miles from the bustle of Washington, D.C., Shenandoah National Park is a land bursting with cascading waterfalls, spectacular vistas, fields of wildflowers, and quiet wooded hollows. With over 200,000 acres of protected lands that are haven to deer, songbirds, and black bear, there's so much to explore...and your journey begins right here!
Entrance Fees
Activities
Top Hikes
9.4 mi · 2,348 ft gain · loop
The park's most popular and iconic hike featuring an adventurous rock scramble and 360-degree summit views. Requires good upper body strength.
Starts at: Old Rag Parking Area
1.4 mi · 440 ft gain · out & back
A steep descent following a stream to one of the park's most beautiful and most-visited waterfalls. The return climb is challenging.
Starts at: Dark Hollow Falls Parking Area (mile 50.7)
1.6 mi · 340 ft gain · out & back
An outstanding viewpoint overlooking the Shenandoah Valley, Massanutten Mountain, and beyond. One of the easiest summit hikes in the park.
Starts at: Stony Man Parking Area (mile 41.7)
2.9 mi · 860 ft gain · loop
Ascend to Shenandoah's highest peak with a viewing platform offering a magnificent 360-degree view of the valley and Blue Ridge Mountains.
Starts at: Hawksbill Gap Parking Area (mile 45.5)
Upcoming Events
Artist in Residence Public Program with Matt Stock
Location: Big Meadows area Time: TBD Shenandoah is one of numerous National Park Service sites across the country that have Artist-in-Residence programs to inspire artists to create and share art that not only motivates and encourages millions of people to visit and explore but also helps build awareness and develop stewardship of these beautiful public lands. This program gives artists an opportunity to creatively explore Shenandoah’s natural and cultural resources and pursue their artistic discipline. Each artist will spend three weeks in Shenandoah and create an original piece reflecting the experience to donate to the park. Artists also present public programs about their art and their residencies. Shenandoah’s Artist-in-Residence program is supported by generous donations to the Shenandoah National Park Trust.
Artist in Residence Public Program with Matt Stock
Location: Loft Mountain Amphitheater Time: Following evening program Shenandoah is one of numerous National Park Service sites across the country that have Artist-in-Residence programs to inspire artists to create and share art that not only motivates and encourages millions of people to visit and explore but also helps build awareness and develop stewardship of these beautiful public lands. This program gives artists an opportunity to creatively explore Shenandoah’s natural and cultural resources and pursue their artistic discipline. Each artist will spend three weeks in Shenandoah and create an original piece reflecting the experience to donate to the park. Artists also present public programs about their art and their residencies. Shenandoah’s Artist-in-Residence program is supported by generous donations to the Shenandoah National Park Trust.
Artist in Residence Public Program with Nyssa Collins
Location: TBD Time: TBD Shenandoah is one of numerous National Park Service sites across the country that have Artist-in-Residence programs to inspire artists to create and share art that not only motivates and encourages millions of people to visit and explore but also helps build awareness and develop stewardship of these beautiful public lands. This program gives artists an opportunity to creatively explore Shenandoah’s natural and cultural resources and pursue their artistic discipline. Each artist will spend three weeks in Shenandoah and create an original piece reflecting the experience to donate to the park. Artists also present public programs about their art and their residencies. Shenandoah’s Artist-in-Residence program is supported by generous donations to the Shenandoah National Park Trust.
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit: March
Pleasant weather with fewer crowds
Weather & Climate
Shenandoah National Park has four very distinct seasons. Spring typically brings mild temperatures, rain, and wildflowers. Summer brings lush green forests, but can be hot and very humid. Fall follows with cooler temperatures and spectacular fall foliage. Winter can bring snow and ice. The park spans roughly 100 miles, which means that weather can vary greatly depending on your location. The mountain is usually 10°F cooler than the valley below. Always check the forecast, dress in layers, and be prepared.