Top Things to do in Shenandoah National Park
What to do and see in Shenandoah National Park, Shenandoah National Park: The Best Nature & Parks
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1. Bootens Gap - Jones Mountain/Staunton River - Laurel Prong Springs Loop
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
2. Old Rag Mountain Hike
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 366 reviews
Reviewed By 352remil - Virginia, United States
Just got back from hiking this bad boy and would recommend it. I always wondered if it would be as hard as people say. While I wouldn't say only certain people should do it...you gotta be prepared for what you are getting into. Today being election Tuesday I figured there wouldn't be too many issues with overcrowding. I arrived at 10:30 am and the two main lots were full. I was one of the first cars in the 3rd overflow but while I was gathering my gear at least 10 more cars full of people arrived. There are portopotty's in the lower overflow lot but actual restrooms in the main parking area. While the ranger station at the lower overflow lot is closed be prepared to bring your wallet/pass with you because the ranger station is open in the main lot at the head of the trail. I did not read the signs that warn of this in the lower overflow lot so unfortunately had to return to my car adding another mile to the overall hike. People say plan the day to do the hike and they are right. I set out from the ranger station at 11 am and was done by 4:30 pm but the sun was disappearing rapidly and I speed walked the last several miles once getting to the Weakley Hollow Fire Road. I also didn't spend a ton of time at the overlooks nor the summit. So what is there to be cautious about? The rocks...oohh the rocks. Slippery when wet is not just a Bon Jovi album. If you've done any research you know about the rock scramble but the rocks along the way are not to be taken lightly either. I was behind a family and watched the father slip on a small rock. He went down hard about 2 miles into the trail hitting his head on some other larger rocks. The family decided to turn back at that time. The boulders are what everyone comes for though. When I bought my trail ticket ($15) the ranger warned of the mile long rock scramble at the top but I truly didn't appreciate what she meant until I got there. Once off the beaten path, it took a minute to orient on how to navigate the trail but once I figured out to look for the blue blazes, it made it slightly easier. I was able to traverse most of the scramble alone but did have to bite the bullet and ask for a hand in a some places mainly because the scramble forced an awkward body position making leverage impossible. Even though it was 61 degrees and a sunny day there was ice in several spots once leaving the tree line and there was some strong winds. Once slipping into an icy puddle, getting a grip on the boulders with the wet shoe was nigh impossible. That's why people recommend good hiking shoes with grip. Going down from the summit using the Saddle Trail to the Fire Road was a nice respite after all the bouldering. Be prepared for 5 more hiking miles after you summit if you do this route. Weakely Hollow Fire Road was well marked after getting off the saddle trail. There's now a new Ridge access trail back to the parking area but the sucker is mostly uphill and feels like torture at the end of a long day of traversing Old Rag.
3. Hawksbill Mountain
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 146 reviews
Reviewed By LamaFood - Islamabad, Pakistan
This quick loop has a little bit of everything. Recommend doing the loop clockwise - start with the summit and views then follow the path below the peak and over the bolder field. Enjoy !
4. Skyline Drive
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,668 reviews
105-mile Scenic Drive Built In The 1930's Goes Through The Entire Length Of The Park.
Reviewed By ITRT
We entered Shenandoah National Park at the Front Royal Entrance and departed via the Thornton Gap Entrance, a distance of about 32 miles of the 105-mile Skyline Drive that runs through the park. Shenandoah offers many scenic overlooks, camp grounds, trailheads for the beginner as well as the experienced hiker, visitor centers, restrooms and souvenir shops near the entrances, and the Appalachian Trail runs through the park. Scenic overlooks line the Skyline Drive. The Park is mostly forest-covered hills and mountains with wide valleys and some waterfalls. The flowers add to the beauty of the Skyline Drive. The speed limit is 35 mph on the two-lane road that is also shared with bicyclists. We arrived mid-morning and were glad we did as there was a back-up of cars waiting to enter via the Thornton Gap Entrance. It was a beautiful and enjoyable day.
5. Dickey Ridge Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 20 reviews
Scenic trail in Shenandoah.
Reviewed By Bob19512014 - Gulfport, United States
This trail can be started even without entering the National park. The grade is easy and shady. Not a place for a wheelchair. Even the youngest or oldest can handle this trail.
6. Pinnacles
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 17 reviews
High altitude area perfect for picnicking.
Reviewed By Tour462984
Larry T's review above was spot on. This was the best hike we took on our trip! Some may prefer more difficult but this was just our 'speed'. The view from the rocks was incredible.. I cannot imagine there is a more panoramic view of the valley below. You will not be disappointed.
7. Bearfence Mountain
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 201 reviews
Popular scenic area.
Reviewed By 58muadd - Fredericksburg, United States
This relatively short 1.2 mile hiking trail offers some great views to include some rock scrambles. You will be going up and down throughout the hiking experience. I thought the hike was easy. The parking lot is very small so get there early. The trail begins across the street from the parking lot. Very scenic.
8. Appalachian Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 192 reviews
Reviewed By Bowmanator22 - Charlotte, United States
We walked only a tiny section of the AT, but even stepping foot on this iconic trail was a thrill. Left me dreaming of future hiking adventures still to come! Must do, whatever you are able.
9. Mary's Rock Summit Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 111 reviews
Reviewed By Mashuganah - Springfield, United States
A hike of moderate difficulty with a beautiful, panoramic view at the end. A lovely, cool breeze was coming up from the valley when I was there. Those wanting more adventure can climb the rocks to the very peak. Take lots of water (one bottle mayn't be enough) and a snack for the top. Can be completed in a couple hours if you're in reasonable shape. The trail is very rocky so have some good shock absorbing hiking shoes.
10. Dark Hollow Falls
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 534 reviews
Reviewed By ToIrelandwithlove
This waterfall is beautiful every time. Great hike down and moderate climb back up for a great work out.
