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
Location: Big Meadows area Time: TBD Rebecca Shewmaker will lead "Stitched in the Skyline: Art and Stewardship" a discussion of how the unique geography and autumn transformation of Shenandoah National Park inspire her "threadpaintings." Rebecca will explain her creative process—using a sewing machine and thread to "paint" the world around her—and show examples of her intricate textile art. This talk is an invitation to see the Blue Ridge Mountains through a new lens and discover how contemporary craft can deepen our appreciation for the environment. Shenandoah’s Artist-in-Residence program is supported by generous donations to the Shenandoah National Park Trust.
Location: Loft Mountain area Time: TBD Rebecca Shewmaker invites visitors to explore the ecology of Shenandoah National Park through the art of embroidery. In this hands-on workshop, Rebecca will demonstrate how simple hand-stitching techniques can be used to translate the park's beauty into fiber art. Participants will create their own mini-landscape using colorful threads, blunted needles and fabric, learning how creative practice can serve as a tool for observing, recording, and preserving the natural world. No drawing or embroidery skills required. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. 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.