Whether you take in the views from the 105 miles of Skyline Drive or choose from 500 miles of trails within this Virginia national park, you’re in for a treat. Simply put, Shenandoah National Park is beautiful. The park is well-maintained, the landscapes are breathtaking, the wildlife is abundant, and there is plenty of activities to choose from. Time will be the factor in deciding your itinerary, but check out these top attractions to make sure you don’t miss a thing!
Skyline Drive
© Lauren Himiak
Running along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains is 105 miles of pavement begging to be driven. Skyline Drive is the most accessible, easiest, and most convenient way to explore Shenandoah National Park. With 75 overlooks, all equally stunning, you will have ample opportunity for photographs. Be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife as well – white-tailed deer are frequent on the drive. If you’re lucky you may also see wild turkeys or perhaps a black bear.
It takes about three hours to travel the entire length of the park on a clear day and all vehicles are permitted on Skyline Drive. For those with RVs or larger vehicles, be sure you will clear Mary’s Rock Tunnel which is approximately 12’8”.
Rapidan Camp
© Lauren Himiak
Be sure to visit the former summer retreat of President Herbert and First Lady Lou Henry Hoover. The President’s House has been historically refurnished and is set deep in a lush forest surrounded by tall trees and babbling brooks. You can take the 4.1 mile round-trip hike on Mill Prong Trail, which begins on Skyline Drive at Milam Gap. It’s a nice hike, not too strenuous and full of stunning view of the forest.
Once onsite, stop by The Prime Minister’s cabin which contains a walk-in exhibit. The exhibit explains why the Hoovers’ chose a vacation home in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, includes photos of their lives, and tells the story of Hoover’s presidency.
Big Meadows
© Lauren Himiak
If your goal is wildlife, spend a few hours in this giant field. No cars are allowed here, making it a quiet and serene place for a picnic or just to sit back and relax. Many visitors choose to bring lawn chairs and telescopes/binoculars to check out grazing deer.
Across the street lies Big Meadows campground which is a beautiful spot for individuals, groups, or families to stay. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, fire grate, and parking area. Also nearby is Big Meadows Lodge, offering 25 rooms in the main lodge, as well as 75 rustic cabins.
If you have kids, Big Meadows is your must-see. The meadow is perfect for running around, spotting animals and wildlife, and the accommodations are just perfect for families.
Wildflower Weekend
© Lauren Himiak
Wildflowers comprise 862 species found in Shenandoah National park and for one weekend a year, they are the top attraction.
The weekend was developed to allow visitors to appreciate the diversity of wildflowers growing in the Blue Ridge area. The park offers numerous programs ranging from guided nature walks to searches for specific flowers. The weekend is dedicated to keeping visitors outdoors and active. Check the National Park Service for the specific weekend and plan your trip to Shenandoah.
Backcountry
© Lauren Himiak
With 196,000 acres of backcountry and wilderness and over 500 miles of trails to explore, Shenandoah is one of the premiere destinations for backcountry camping. In fact, one-fourth of the Appalachian Trail lies in Virginia. All trails are well-maintained and it is easy to locate areas flattened out by previous campers.
Keep in mind all backcountry regulations (fires are not permitted) and plan your trip early. You will need a permit for any backcountry camping.
