The Ultimate Guide to Shenandoah National Park — Best Things To Do, See & Enjoy!

Shenandoah National Park is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains in northern Virginia. This incredible national park is home to an abundance of historical sites, overlooks, mountain views, and waterfalls.

Each year nearly 1.5 million visitors come to experience the wonder of the great outdoors at Shenandoah. For those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of the daily grind, Shenandoah National Park is the perfect place to find peace and solitude.

This guide will cover the most important aspects of planning a trip to Shenandoah, including how to get there, the best times to visit, worthwhile sites, where to stay, and more.

How To Get to Shenandoah National Park

Where Is Shenandoah National Park?

Shenandoah National Park is found in the Blue Ridge Mountains in the state of Virginia. This national park is just 75 miles from the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C.

Shenandoah is a park with natural beauty, including rushing waterfalls, stunning vistas, wooded hollows, and fields of wildflowers. This park stretches over 200,000 acres of protected lands where songbirds, deer, and black bears make their home.

Nearest Airports to Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is located near several airports, all reasonably close to the park. Each recommended airport is less than 75 miles from one of the park’s entrances. Let’s look at the airport options so you can plan your national park adventure.

Charlottesville Albemarle Airport (CHO)

Charlottesville Albemarle Airport is only 31 miles east of the Rockfish Gap entrance of Shenandoah National Park. This airport offers over 50 nonstop flights daily to travelers in central Virginia. Charlottesville Albemarle Airport is served by popular airlines such as Delta, United, and American.

Reagan National Airport (DCA)

Reagan National Airport is 70 miles from the Front Royal entrance of Shenandoah National Park. This airport offers nonstop flights to 96 domestic destinations and 5 international destinations. Airlines served by this airport include Air Canada, Alaska, American, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, and United.

Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport (SHD)

Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport is a mere 27 miles from the Swift Run Gap entrance of the park. Out of all the airport options, this airport is the closest airport to Shenandoah National Park. Shenandoah Valley offers convenient access to United’s global network through 2 major hubs: Washington Dulles (IAD) and Chicago O’Hare (ORD). United is partnered with SkyWest and provides daily flights to and from Shenandoah Valley Airport.

Bottom Line: Flying into and out of Shenandoah Valley Airport is timely, cost-efficient, and stress-free.

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Washington Dulles International Airport offers flights to 77 domestic and 35 international destinations. Popular airlines served by this airport include United, Delta, Southwest, and Air Canada. Washington Dulles International Airport is 56 miles east of the Front Royal entrance to Shenandoah National Park.

Driving to Shenandoah National Park

There are several routes to get to Shenandoah National Park; it just depends on which way you are coming from. Let’s look at the best routes for those coming from the Washington, D.C. Metro area, Richmond, and Pittsburgh.

Those driving from the Washington, D.C. metro area will take Interstate 66 west and Route 340 South to enter through the North. If coming from this area and wanting to enter through the Thornton Gap Area, Interstate 66 west to exit 43A, then Highway 29 to Highway 211 will be the best option.

Visitors coming from the Richmond area can travel west on Interstate 64 to exit 99 to enter the South Entrance of the park. Another option for those coming from Richmond is to enter through Swift Run Gap by traveling west on Interstate 64 to Charlottesville, then take Highway 29 and Highway 33.

To enter through the north entrance from the Pittsburgh area, travelers will drive east on Interstate 76 to exit 161, then take Interstate 70 East to Highway 522 South. From there, take Interstate 81 South to Interstate 66 East will get you to the park. This trip is around 178 miles in total.

Taking the Train to Shenandoah National Park

If you want to take the train to Shenandoah National Park, Amtrak can get you very close.

Amtrak’s Northeast Regional Line runs from Boston to Washington, D.C., and beyond, making several stops around Virginia. Travelers to Shenandoah can take the Amtrak Northeast Regional that runs Southwest from D.C. to Culpepper, Virginia.

The journey from D.C. to Culpepper takes an hour and a half. The ride is very comfortable, with plenty of amenities like cozy seats, meals, snacks, and drinks.  A taxi or ride-sharing service from Culpepper can take you to the park’s entrance.

Trains typically leave D.C.’s Union Station daily at 11 a.m., 4:45 p.m., and 6:30 p.m. Tickets cost anywhere from $13 to $29 each way, depending on if you choose to travel in business class or coach.

Taking the Bus to Shenandoah National Park

There are 2 excellent options for those who want to avoid driving to the park in their personal vehicles. The Virginia Breeze and Corridor Connector take all the work out of your trip to the park and allow you to sit back and enjoy the journey.

Virginia Breeze

The Virginia Breeze is a Megabus that is a good option for those wanting to visit Shenandoah National Park. This option will take travelers from either D.C.’s Union Station or other designated locations to the Front Royal park entrance. This bus makes the trip to Shenandoah several times daily and costs $25 each way.

Corridor Connector

Another option for traveling to Shenandoah National Park is to take the Corridor Connector. This service is run by Virginia Regional Transit. This mode of transportation is highly affordable, costing only $1 each way. The bus runs several times daily and is in service Monday through Saturday. The only downfall to this option is that the final stop will drop visitors off at the Royal Plaza in Front Royal’s city center, which means you will need to walk about half an hour or take an Uber to the park’s entrance.

Getting Around Shenandoah National Park

Skyline Drive is the only public road in Shenandoah National Park, and it runs the entire length of the park from the north to the south. Skyline Drive runs for 105 miles along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you want to travel the entire road, it will take about 3 hours on a clear day.

The park service offers printable and interactive maps to help you plan your itinerary while you visit the park.

You’ll need to drive your own car as there is no public bus system within the park.

What To See and Do in Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is filled with opportunities to explore, discover, and stand in awe of the beauty held within the park. From natural wonders to historic sites, there are plenty of things to do while visiting the park. Take a peek at some of the top attractions and activities in Shenandoah National Park.

Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail stretches 2,200 from Maine to Georgia. Nearly 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail pass through Shenandoah National Park.

This trail crosses Skyline Drive and features many of the top attractions in Shenandoah, including Compton’s Peak, Lewis Spring Falls, and Marys Rock. Hikers and backpackers enjoy the breathtaking views of fields of wildflowers, rushing waterfalls, and massive cliffs along the way.

Camping

Camping is very popular in Shenandoah National Park. Several developed campgrounds are available for those wanting to stay overnight. Still, one exciting camping option is backcountry camping.

There are approximately 196,000 acres of wilderness available for backcountry camping by permit. For those choosing backcountry camping, there are strict rules including “leave no trace,” no campfires, and requirements to use bear-proof containers.

Bottom Line: Shenandoah National Park is an excellent place for outdoor enthusiasts who love experiencing primitive, natural camping.

Dark Hollow Falls Trail

Dark Hollow Falls Trail is one of the most noteworthy trails in Shenandoah National Park. This trail got its name because of the 70-foot scenic cascade that can be viewed along its route. This trail begins at Skyline Drive and travels downhill through beautiful foliage and trickling creeks. Some parts of this trail are steep, and the rocks near the falls are very slippery.

Wildlife can also be spotted in this area, including black bears and timber rattlesnakes. If choosing to hike the Dark Hollow Falls Trail, it’s wise to use caution and stay on the trail to avoid dangerous situations.

Dickey Ridge

Dickey Ridge Visitor Center is located at mile 4 on Skyline Drive. This visitor center is the perfect place for travelers to stop to use the restroom, learn information about the park, shop in the bookstore, and grab maps and other publications for Shenandoah National Park.

Dickey Ridge Visitor Center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on the weekends from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. This is a perfect place for visitors to ask questions and participate in interactive exhibits and ranger-led programs.

Hawksbill Mountain

Hawksbill Mountain is the highest peak in Shenandoah National Park and rises over 4,000 feet. The summit provides incredible views of the nearby sites, such as Stony Man Mountain and Old Rag Mountain.

Several hikes lead visitors to the summit — one of these trails being part of the Appalachian Trail. These trails are rated as moderately complex. Recently, the park established a falcon restoration project on Hawksbill Mountain, which is another attraction worth visiting.

Hiking

Shenandoah has over 500 miles of hiking trails for adventurers to explore. Hikes range from easy to strenuous and take visitors to some of the most stunning areas in the park. The most popular hikes include Marys Rock, Limberlost, and Bearfence.

Old Rag Mountain

Old Rag Mountain is the most popular destination in Shenandoah National Park. This mountain trail is not only the most popular in Shenandoah National Park but also the most dangerous.

Old Rag Mountain features hiking with thrilling rocks, scrambles, and panoramic 360° views that make you feel like you’re standing on top of the world. Conquering this hike is on the bucket list of many adventurers.

Hiking Old Rag Mountain in the late fall and winter is a magical time because it is less crowded, and the visibility can be so clear that you get mesmerizing views of the mountains and valleys. This hike is not recommended for solo visitors.

Hot Tip: If you want to attempt this incredible feat, you must first obtain an Old Rag Mountain day-use ticket in advance, in addition to the park entrance pass.

Picnicking in the Park

Picnicking in Shenandoah National Park is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of the area. There are several picnic areas located around the park. These picnic areas offer tables under shady trees, charcoal grills, and nearby restroom facilities.

Grab a bottle of your favorite Shenandoah Valley wine and pack a basket of cheese, meats, and fruits, and sit back and relax while taking in the gorgeous views and cheerful sounds of the Shenandoah National Park.

Rapidan Camp

Rapidan Camp is located on Rapidan River and is a restored fishing retreat built in 1929 by President Herbert Hoover. When Hoover was president, he and his wife enjoyed retreating to this secluded area where they could enjoy peaceful times in nature.

Rapidan Camp eventually grew to have 13 buildings connected by paths of wood or stone. It was used by Hoover and his associates when they needed a break from the White House. This idea ultimately paved the way for Camp David, a retreat in Maryland still used by U.S. presidents. Today, Rapidan Camp is open to the public, and visitors can take guided tours of the site during the warm months.

Rose River Falls

Rose River Falls is a popular attraction in Shenandoah National Park. Visitors can take a 4-mile circuit hike to the waterfall area. This stunning waterfall stands at 67 feet tall. The trail for Rose River Falls is in one of the park’s designated wilderness areas.

There’s an elevation gain of 910 feet, and the difficulty level of this trail is considered moderate. If you’re interested in visiting this park area, the hiking time is approximately 4.5 hours from start to finish.

Skyline Drive

Skyline Drive is the 105-mile scenic road that travels the entire length of Shenandoah National Park. This drive features over 70 lookouts that showcase remarkable views of the Shenandoah River and valley.

This road also provides access to many trails leading to campgrounds, lodges, and waterfalls. The best views of Shenandoah National Park are found along Skyline Drive.

Watching for Wildlife

Watching the animals in the park is both exciting and calming at the same time. While hiking and trekking through Shenandoah National Park, keep an eye out for the wildlife that makes it home in the park.

Hundreds of species of birds, mammals, and fish are found in Shenandoah National Park. Whitetail deer, squirrels, and chipmunks are frequently seen by visitors in the park. You may be lucky to catch a glimpse of other animals, including beavers, woodchucks, or black bears.

The skies and trees are where to look to get a peek at the cardinals, red-tailed hawks, and blue jays that are park residents. You may see a school of trout swimming in the clear water of the mountain streams.

Best Times To Visit Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park has incredible opportunities for visitors year-round, but the activities you want to participate in will determine which time of year to visit.

Whether you wish to hike, explore historic attractions, or catch a glimpse of the wildlife that makes their home in the park, certain times throughout the year are better than others. Let’s discover the best times to visit Shenandoah National Park.

Best Time To Visit Shenandoah National Park in Winter

Winter is a magical time in Shenandoah National Park. Visitors can come to the park from November to March for a winter experience. Touring the park covered by a blanket of snow adds an enchanting element to your trip.

December and January offer the least crowded months and may lead to a better experience because the bare trees and cooler temperatures provide better visibility. The views of the valley and mountains are exceptionally clear and there is a better chance of spotting wildlife.

Best Time To Visit Shenandoah National Park To Avoid the Crowds

The best time to visit Shenandoah National Park to avoid crowds is in its off-season or winter from November through March.

Visiting during these months can offer a more solitary experience and better views of the wildlife and their natural habitat. Another added bonus of coming during these times is there won’t be traffic as you drive through the park or search for parking spaces.

Best Time To Visit Shenandoah National Park for Viewing Wildlife

Spring is the best time to visit for those wanting to spot the wildlife that lives in Shenandoah National Park. The spring also happens to be less crowded than the summer, so the animals are more likely to be active during your visit.

Wildlife that lives in Shenandoah National Park includes black bears, white, tailed deer, bobcats, and spotted skunks. Be sure to use caution when you’re visiting so you can avoid dangerous situations.

Best Time To Visit Shenandoah National Park in the Fall

October is the best month for a scenic drive along Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park. This is the time of year when the trees have begun to change colors and showcase stunning shades of orange, yellow, and red.

Bottom Line: For those wanting to experience Shenandoah while the fall foliage is at its best, visit during the month of October.

Cheapest Time To Visit Shenandoah National Park

Several times throughout the year, a trip to Shenandoah is cheaper than others. Some of these times include from early January to mid-March, from mid-April to early May, and from early August to mid-November, excluding the weeks of October 15 and October 22.

The cheapest time for a trip to Shenandoah National Park is early September. These times prove to be when airfares are lowest and hotel stays are cheaper than usual.

Where To Stay When Visiting Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park has a wide variety of lodging options inside the park and in nearby towns. Lodging options in the park and nearby cities range from backcountry camping to luxury resort stays.

Whether you desire a rustic or glamorous stay, Shenandoah National Park has you covered for all types of accommodations. Let’s explore the accommodations available in the park and in surrounding towns.

Inside the Park

There are several lodging options for those who want to stay in Shenandoah National Park. Whether you prefer staying in an elegant or rustic facility, Shenandoah will have an option for your lodging needs. Let’s explore some of the choices for accommodations in the park.

Big Meadows Lodge

One option for lodging is Big Meadows Lodge. Big Meadows is just 1 mile from the grassy meadow at mile 51 on Skyline Drive. Several types of lodging accommodations are available at Big Meadows, including detached cabins, traditional hotel-style rooms, suites, and main lodge rooms. Big Meadows Lodge has several amenities available for its guests, including a dining room, a bar, and a craft shop.

Lewis Mountain Cabins

Lewis Mountain Cabins are found at the 57th mile of Skyline Drive. This is a perfect accommodation for families, couples, or anyone who wants to experience an authentic national park stay with rustic (but furnished) cabins. This is a perfect place to disconnect, as it does not have phones or internet access.

Public Use Cabins

There are 6 public-use cabins available inside Shenandoah National Park that are maintained by the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club. These historic cabins are perfect for anyone desiring a rustic stay with only the bare necessities.

These primitive cabins are located in various areas throughout the park and come with mattresses, blankets, and cookware with a pit toilet and spring water close by. The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club website allows guests to make online reservations for these cabins.

Skyland

Skyland is a beautiful resort that is nestled at 3,680 feet in elevation. This resort has 28 separate buildings along the ridge and in the wooded areas of Shenandoah National Park. Skyland has a range of accommodations, including premium rooms, cabins, and traditional rooms and suites.

Towns Near Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah has plenty of lodging options inside the park, but some may opt to stay in a nearby town. Harrisonburg, Charlottesville, and Waynesboro are the 3 nearest major towns to Shenandoah National Park and are all a 30-minute drive or less to the park.

These towns have multiple lodging, dining, and entertainment options and could make a great place to set up a home base for your Shenandoah trip.

Charlottesville, Virginia

Charlottesville is best known for Thomas Jefferson’s estate Monticello, but there are several other exciting things about Charlottesville.

Home to the University of Virginia, this gateway to Shenandoah National Park is found along the Blue Ridge Mountains and makes a great base camp for your Shenandoah National Park stay.

Charlottesville has a host of accommodations ranging from quaint bed-and-breakfasts to luxury hotels. There are several varieties of restaurants, including steakhouses, French restaurants, and Italian bistros. Charlottesville has many world-renowned historic sites, scenic parks, and waterways for outdoor adventures.

Harrisonburg, Virginia

Harrisonburg is nestled in the Shenandoah Valley between the Blue Ridge Mountains. This town is the outdoor adventure capital of the Shenandoah Valley. Many tourists set up camp in Harrisonburg to explore the park and take advantage of all that Harrisonburg has to offer.

Harrisonburg is known for its colorful downtown district. This town offers world-class entertainment and one-of-a-kind attractions. With over 200 restaurants, 5 craft breweries, and a wide variety of accommodations, it’s clear why this is a great choice to set up camp for a national park vacation.

Waynesboro, Virginia

Waynesboro is located at the intersection of Skyline Drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Appalachian Trail. This town is known for its opportunities for adventure, scenic drives, and paddling and fishing in South River. Waynesboro is a good option for those who want to stay near Shenandoah National Park.

This friendly town has a walkable downtown that features a historic theater, shops, art galleries, restaurants, and murals. The city has 3 breweries for those who want to grab a drink and relax. For those seeking beauty and history in the Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains, Waynesboro is an ideal location for your vacation.

Where To Eat in Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park has no shortage of places for dining inside the park. There are snack shops, carry-out dining, and formal dining rooms in various areas around the park. You won’t have to worry about going hungry during your visit, but you may need help deciding where to eat. Let’s take a look at some of the popular dining options the park has to offer.

Mountain Taproom

Mountain Taproom is in Skyland and features a lighter fare with beer and local wines. This restaurant has a grab-and-go area for picking up quick meals on the go or places for sitting and dining in. Each night the restaurant has live music and entertainment for guests of all ages.

New Market Taproom

New Market Taproom is located in the Meadows Lodge and offers a family-friendly environment for visitors. New Market Taproom provides a menu with lighter fare, specialty drinks, and local beer and wine. A big draw for dining here is the nightly bluegrass music.

Pollock Dining Room

Skyland has a lovely restaurant called the Pollock Dining Room. This restaurant features farm-to-fork dishes and incredible views of the Shenandoah Valley. If you are dreaming of something sweet, the famous blackberry ice cream pie is available at this location.

Spottswood Dining Room

Spottswood Dining Room is found in Meadows Lodge. This restaurant serves several signature dishes named after Franklin D. Roosevelt. FDR is honored in the dish names because he delivered the park’s dedication speech in 1936.

Spottswood has seating indoors and outside on the terrace. The restaurant has a famous blackberry ice cream pie you’ll want to try after your meal.

Shenandoah National Park Facts

1. A New Park Established

President Calvin Coolidge and Congress authorized the creation of Shenandoah National Park on May 26, 1926. It was later established as a national park on December 26, 1935. On July 3, 1936, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt dedicated Shenandoah National Park and declared it open to the public.

2. A Presidential Retreat

President Herbert Hoover established what is now known as Rapidan Camp in 1929 in Shenandoah National Park. He referred to this retreat as his “brown house,” where he could relax and get away from the White House. This camp was made up of 13 cabins that were near 2 streams that form the Rapidan River.

3. An Abundance of Wildlife

Over 200 bird species make their home in the park. Some of these birds include wild turkey and peregrine falcons. Over 50 mammal species live in the park, including white-tailed deer, spotted skunks, bobcats, shrews, and black bears.

4. Ancient Mountains

Shenandoah National Park is made up mainly of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Blue Ridge Mountains are part of the Appalachian Mountain Range, one of the world’s oldest mountain ranges. It’s believed that these mountain ranges were formed over 300 to 500 million years ago.

5. A Vast Land

Shenandoah National Park spans nearly 200,000 acres and includes almost 80,000 acres of protected wilderness. This park stretches across 7 Virginian counties.

6. Miles and Miles of Hiking Trails

There are 516 miles of hiking trails available for adventurers to explore in the park. 101 miles of trails overlap with the famous Appalachian Trail, which runs from Maine to Georgia.

Over 30% of the trails go through the wilderness. The trails range in difficulty from easy to extremely strenuous and help visitors experience the beauty and grandeur of Shenandoah National Park.

7. Shenandoah Salamander

Shenandoah National Park is the only known location worldwide of the Shenandoah Salamander. This amphibian is on the endangered species list. It is a rare type of amphibian as it is a lungless salamander.

Lungless salamanders are believed to have originated in the Appalachian Mountains. The Shenandoah Salamander is 7 to 10 centimeters in length and can be found in 2 colors. Some of these salamanders have yellow or red stripes along their bodies, while others may have brassy colored spots. These animals have been known to live as long as 25 years.

8. Wonderous Waterfalls

Shenandoah National Park is an excellent place to chase waterfalls. There are many small cascades along the mountain streams. Still, the prominent waterfalls in each park area are an incredible sight.

The highest waterfall in the park is 93 feet tall. Famous waterfalls in the park include Brown’s Gap, Dark Hollow Falls, South River Falls, Doyles River Falls, and Overall Run Falls.

9. Black Bear Refuge

Shenandoah National Park has the largest black bear refuge in the state. Black bears are plentiful in Shenandoah National Park because of its large protected areas of contiguous, high-quality forests.

10. Secret Cemeteries

There are more than 100 cemeteries that have been discovered in Shenandoah National Park. Several secret cemeteries have yet to be found. The park system has mapped out where several of these cemeteries are located. Still, the possibility of finding an undiscovered cemetery is a thrilling quest for many park visitors.

11. Homes in the Park

When the park was established in the early 20th century, many residents that had settled and created a life in the Shenandoah Valley had to leave. Shenandoah evacuated most of the inhabitants but allowed elderly and disabled people to stay in the park as residents until they died. The last person to live in Shenandoah National Park died in 1979. Her name was Annie Lee Bradley Shank and she was 92 years old when she died.

12. A Mysterious Name

It has yet to be determined where the name Shenandoah came from. We know the park was named after the Shenandoah River that flows through the Shenandoah Valley. There are many theories and assumptions about where the word Shenandoah came from.

Some of these meanings of Shenandoah come from the language of the region’s indigenous people, including “daughter of the stars,” “silver water,” “river through the spruces,” “great meadow,” “river of high mountains,” and “big flat place.”

Another thought is that it could be named for the fallen chief Sherando or possibly a tribe called the Senedoes that lived in the valley until 1730.

13. Civilian Conservation Corps

The Civilian Conservation Corps was developed by President Franklin Roosevelt as part of the New Deal program. From 1933 to 1942, thousands of young men lived and worked in Civilian Conservation Corps camps. These camps were located in and adjacent to Shenandoah National Park.

These “boys” built trails, fire roads, rock walls, log structures, scenic overlooks, and much more. Hundreds of thousands of trees were planted by the Civilian Conservation Corps. These trees can be seen when exploring the park today.

Final Thoughts

Boasting some of America’s most beautiful forests, mountain ranges, and valleys, Shenandoah National Park is an incredible destination for discovery, adventure, and learning.

Nestled into the Shenandoah Valley, Shenandoah National Park offers some of the best scenery and history in all of Appalachia. Visiting this national park will leave you with memories and experiences that will last a lifetime.