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
An out-and-back hike through a variety of plant communities to the summit of Rocky Mountain. Along the way there will be opportunities to see the effects of the 2016 Rocky Mount Fire. Rocky, uneven tread with steady descents and climbs in both directions. 3.5 miles. Elevation change: about 1,000 ft. Meet at Brown Mountain Overlook (mile 77). Stephen Paull, Park Biological Science Technician
For children of all ages, learn about what makes spring so special through stories and song. Meet on the western lawn of Dickey Ridge Visitor Center (mile 4.6).
Explore the rich woods in search of wild ginger, bellflower, waterleaf and more. Mostly gentle, with some short, very steep places. ½-mile loop. Meet at Gravel Springs Gap (mile 17.6). Limited parking. Wendy Cass, Park Botanist and Jake Hughes, Park Invasive Plant and Restoration Biologist
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.