I am curious if you have a recommendation on which hike would be most suitable as my husband and I are driving from the D.C. area to stay the weekend in Charlottesville, VA. We wanted to take some time on our drive in on Saturday to hike in Shenendoah but I am not sure what would be the most logical hike based on where we are coming from and headed to! In fact, it’s hard to sort through them all and pick the best hikes in Shenandoah National Park. Thank you for this, it was so helpful to compare the different hikes! Johnny Molloy, author of Top Trails: Shenandoah National Park, has been day hiking and backpacking at Shenandoah for over two decades, in addition to trekking destinations throughout the Old Dominion and beyond. Like a backbone extending down the Blue Ridge, the AT runs the length of the park and attracts large numbers of day hikers and weekend overnighters, in … Shenandoah River State Park is nestled between Shenandoah National Park to the east and Massanutten Mountain to the west. Walk the Passamaquoddy Trail, named for early park proponent George Pollock. Stop by Dundo Picnic Area, once the site of a Civilian Conservation Corps Camp. Strike up the north slope of Old Rag, emerging onto a massive granite slab, revealing far fetched panoramas. This 4.8 mile round trip hike descends from the Skyline Drive 1200’ to a beautiful 86’ waterfall. The South District of Shenandoah National Park spans from the Swift Run Gap Entrance Station at U.S. Rt. Walk the Passamaquoddy Trail, named for early park proponent George Pollock. This is super helpful; thanks! Do you have any suggestions for hiking with a toddler and also enjoy the views? Our list of hikes is by no means all-inclusive, but we did our best to pick the “must-do” trails if you plan on being in the park for several days. To help you narrow down where to go, and accepting that everyone has a different idea of what makes their “bucket list,” we suggest the following trails as warranting serious consideration. View old-growth tulip trees with impressive girths along Jones Run. Shenandoah’s Best Waterfall Hikes Book your reservation online today or call 877-847-1919. … Turn right on VA 643 and follow it for less than a mile to VA 600. Locations are given by mile markers along Skyline Drive. And yes, there are hikes you must do here. Leave the rugged mountaintop and reenter the lowlands via the pretty valley of Brokenback Run on a foot-relieving gravel fire road. Elevations vary from 4,050 feet atop Hawksbill down to less than 550 feet near Front Royal. Thanks, Johnny Molloy. Virginia Economic Development Partnership Visit www.vedp.org. You can only see portions of the river from the trail as the trail is not right next to the river, but instead on the other side of the the tree line next to the river. Why You Must Hike This Hike: This hike visits three major cataracts while looping through two boulder-strewn canyons linked by the Appalachian Trail. Gary Utz reviewed Big Oak Trail and Tulip Poplar Trail Loop … Hikes with Views State Park Hikes Spring Bluebells at Shenandoah River State Park April 16, 2020 December 27, 2020 Erin Kid-Friendly , Shenandoah River State Park , Shenandoah Valley 33 to the Rockfish Gap Entrance Station off U.S. Rt. Take a left on VA 670 and follow it for 5 miles to VA 643. This is a short 1.4-mile… Join the AT northbound. Hike to Fossil Beach at York River State Park in Williamsburg September 14, 2020 September 27, 2020 Erin Coastal Virginia There’s something special about coastal hikes, like those you’ll find at York River State Park. The 1,600 acre park, which opened in 1999, has 17 trails making up 24 miles, a virtual labyrinth. Stop by Furnace Spring, once was used in a copper mining operation, before completing this highlight-laden loop, located near Skyland. A large riverside picnic area with shelters, trails, river access, a scenic overlook and a car-top boat launch make this a … 6 Kid Friendly Hikes in Shenandoah National Park After spending the previous 10 days along the US Atlantic Coast with our kids, we had spent too much time in cities, so we were looking forward to some Shenandoah National Park hiking. Or you can engage other hikes, to Stony Man and Hawksbill, where lofty heights reveal more views, biodiversity, and park history with every footfall among these stately highlands. For Virginia Citizen And Business Services Visit www.virginia.gov. Excellent trail marking. overlooks the Shenandoah river and the valley. Leave Dickey Ridge Visitor Center to first visit the old Fox Farm. Camping available. Top out on a rock promontory with a view of the uppermost falls. Gently descend back to Loft Mountain Wayside. Shenandoah is not only known for its breathtaking Skyline Drive but also its beautiful, flowing, high waterfalls. Went during the week and encountered only two hikers and two mountain bikers. Hiking. The Trailhead: This hike starts near the north entrance to Skyland Resort off Skyline Drive. The hike is do-able by most everyone. This state park is about 15 minutes to Front Royal making grocery shopping easy. From the Thornton Gap entrance, take Skyline Drive south for 15.2 miles to reach the parking area, on your right. The rewards for this hike far outstrip the effort needed. In addition, a wealth of attractions lies outside the park to enhance your Shenandoah National Park experience. Situated in the heart of Shenandoah Valley, northern Virginia’s Shenandoah River State Park is an oft-forgotten destination in a heavily-trafficked area. Virginia Route 340 between Front Royal and Luray is perhaps one of the more underrated scenic drives in the state. Beautiful. The Trailhead: From the intersection of US 211 and US 522 in Sperryville, take US 522 south for .8 mile to VA 231. Take the Frazier Discovery Trail to the wide-open stony vista, then pick up the world’s most famous footpath, the Appalachian Trail, southward through a transitional forest to meet a paved path near the Loft Mountain Campground camp store. Elevation changes only amount to climbs and drops of 450 feet each – not bad for this park, not bad at all. Shenandoah River State Park: Wonderful Camping and hiking adventure - See 164 traveler reviews, 143 candid photos, and great deals for Bentonville, VA, at Tripadvisor. Official Tourism Blog Of The Commonwealth Of VirginiaCopyright © 2020 Virginia Tourism Corporation, 901 E. Cary St., Suite 900, Richmond, Va 23219. Perfect trails for an afternoon of hiking/biking/jogging. Dark Hollow Falls. The park opened in June 1999. Milepost 45.6. Turn right on VA 231 and follow it 8 miles to VA 601, Peola Mills Road. Unfortunately inside-the-park no campgrounds have water and electricity. Before you set out into the park, make sure to review the rules and regulations and safety tips for traveling in Shenandoah's backcountry. A man-made observation platform showing the cardinal points enhance this highest of Virginia national park panoramas. If you love hiking (all levels) great facilities and not a lot of crowds, spend at least one (or two days) hiking here. At the turn you will see a sign indicating this is the highest point on Skyline Drive. Why You Must Hike This Hike: Stand atop cliffs rising 3,000 feet above Shenandoah Valley, soaking in views from breezy Stony Man. We are seniors and like few rapids with sit on top kayaks. There are short nature trails here, too. These scenic trails highlight the dramatic changes in elevation that create the plentiful waterfalls in this region to wow you. It can be reached by driving north on Skyline Drive for 12.7 miles from Swift Run Gap entrance. Go to the south end of the overlook and pick up the Appalachian Trail there. Kyle, I suggest driving down Skyline Drive, getting to Charlottesville, then taking the next day to hike the Browns Gap waterfall loop or Blackrock via Furnace Mountain the next day. SHENANDOAH RIVER STATE PARK Approximate Distance / Time from Alexandria: 69 miles: 80 miles; 1 hour, 30 minutes (Pictured above.) … Bryan Lowe reviewed Wildcat Ledge Trail With only 797 feet elevation gain, the Platte River State Trail Why You Must Hike This Hike: Old Rag is Shenandoah National Park’s contribution to the great mountains of America. The Trailhead: The hike starts at the Browns Gap parking area, milepost 83.0 on Skyline Drive. This is the most popular hiking trail in the park and it is always recommended by park staff. It is 26.1 miles north of Rockfish Gap entrance station. And as more and more outdoorspeople are discovering, one of the best places to get out of the car and adventure in that scenery is Shenandoah River State Park (also known as Andy Guest State Park).. As many great outdoor spots are, it can be a bit easy to miss. Previous trail description listed just Bear Bottom Loop. This is the most popular hiking trail in the park and it is always recommended by park staff. Take a right on VA 601 and follow it .3 mile cross the Hughes River, then veer right, staying with VA 601. Turn up Jones Run to find the ancient tulip trees. Rich vegetation and large wild land helps support an impressive array of mammals – over 50 species – including the black bear. Beautiful easy stroll along the river along broad open fields (once was farmland). At Shenandoah National Park, you can discover classic destinations like Old Rag and Whiteoak Canyon, where cataracts roar down trout-filled streams while rock outcrops jut above the diverse forest, allowing far-flung views of the Blue Ridge and surrounding Shenandoah Valley. 211. The trail starts right at the most beautiful overlook. In addition to meandering river frontage, the park offers scenic vistas overlooking Massanutten Mountain to the west and Shenandoah National Park to the east. Walk south on Dickey Ridge to Snead Farm site and check out more human history. Pets: No. Shenandoah River State Park. Overall though, the Shenandoah River State Park was … Take the Mill Prong Trail into the cool Rapidan River valley. Discover pioneer vestiges there, including a cemetery. We are continually grateful for the parks' trash-free policy, which specifies that visitors take their trash out with them. Why You Must Hike This Hike: The hike over The Pinnacle to Marys Rock traverses the most spectacular section of the Appalachian Trail (AT) through Shenandoah National Park. Virginia State Parks are well known for their amenities and great trails, and the Shenandoah River Raymond R. "Andy" Guest Jr. State Park is no exception. I like the mix of being in the woods and being out in the open along a field and the river. 6 Favorite Fall Camping Spots at Virginia State Parks By Shellie Anne Posted September 24, 2020 This vertical variation is one of the reasons for the incredible diversity of life found within its boundaries. Shenandoah’s Best Waterfall Hikes Book your reservation online today or call 877-847-1919. Appalachian Trail, Hiking, Outdoors, Shenandoah Valley, Travel Ideas / June 7, 2020 by Johnny Molloy / 26 Comments Updated: Nov 25, 2020. Here a few suggestions for hikes that will have your kids begging to come back! Use this guide to choose the best Shenandoah hikes no matter how long your park visit is! Virginia State Parks are well know for their amenities and great trails, and the Shenandoah River Raymond R. "Andy" Guest Jr. State Park is no exception. Shenandoah is not only known for its breathtaking Skyline Drive but also its beautiful, flowing, high waterfalls. The camp has much to see; you can even embark on a self-guided tour. Gain: Parking: 3.5 hours plus a half hour for lunch 650 ft Park at the Horse Barn Area Virginia State Parks are well know n for their amenities and great trails, and the Shenandoah River Raymond R. "Andy" Guest Jr. State Park is no exception. Interpretive Guides are on site during the warm season. Pick up the Appalachian Trail on your right as you top out in the picnic area, before the road starts looping around. The trails include a beautiful overlook of the river, as well as a pleasant field walk. Stay with the blacktop as it becomes Nethers Road and leads up the Hughes River valley to the lower Old Rag parking lot at 3.3 miles. The Best Shenandoah National Park Hikes One of the biggest attractions in the park is the main road, named Skyline Drive. Mountain views and best River we have kayaked. You can also reach the… Great Falls Park’s terrain, combined with one-of-a-kind views, makes it one of the best hikes in Virginia to take with kids. As folks flock to Skyline Drive to see the fall leaves, they rarely venture down the mountain to what I think is one of the most beautiful parks in Virginia. 205 and I-64. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. I suggest going to the park website and see if they have park-approved guides, http://www.nps.gov/shen . do you know any organized tours that have hikes to the park? This is Shenandoah River State Park, one of the best-kept secrets in the area. The park is 1,604 acres with 5.6 miles of river frontage along the south fork of the Shenandoah River. The Trailhead: The Upper Hawksbill trailhead is on the west side of Skyline Drive at milepost 46.7. Season: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall. The Trailhead: Blackrock parking area is at milepost 84.8 on Skyline Drive, on the west side. Thanks for your interest and can’t wait for you to get out and enjoy some of the many views to be had at Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park. We think that this is one of the best easy hikes in Shenandoah National Park for kids ages 6 and up. 2. Enter a maze of boulders, with some bona fide rock scrambling to reach the summit with eye-popping views. There's even a zip-line available to participate in if … A … Your climb is rewarded by a stop at Jones Run Falls. It’s hard to keep track of all the falls at Whiteoak Canyon tumbling through a chasm of geological wonderment, a place where the rocky base of Shenandoah protrudes above the rich forest. New Market Battlefield State Historical Park, 10 Must Do Hikes in Shenandoah National Park, WanderLove: A Road Trip From Norfolk to Virginia’s Eastern Shore, Virginia’s Charming Main Streets That Are Decked Out for the Holidays, 8 Exclusive Luxury Retreats For a Pampered Virginia Getaway, 22 Virginia Small Towns You’re Going to LOVE, WanderLove: A Road Trip From Fredericksburg To Virginia’s Northern Neck, 20 Virginia Summits with 360 Degree Views, WanderLove: A Road Trip Along Virginia’s Blue Ridge Parkway, 10 Gorgeous Glamping Destinations in Virginia for a Luxury Outdoor Experience, Hiking with Kids: 10 Trails for Beginners in Virginia, 13 Mountain Cabin Rentals for Your Summer Vacation. By Shellie Anne Posted July 21, 2018. Also the state park is an excellent place to camp. Thanks for your blog! Walk to a massive rock outcrop with an extensive view, then stop at the Loft Mountain Campground store for ice cream as you complete the loop. Situated in the heart of Shenandoah Valley, northern Virginia’s Shenandoah River State Park is an oft-forgotten destination in a heavily-trafficked area. Since there are no fords, you can hike this in winter and spring without worry — when the falls will be their boldest. The main spine of the park stretches for 70 miles end-to-end, dividing bucolic Shenandoah Valley from the Piedmont to the east. A shorter family trek explores the easily reached talus slopes of Blackrock Mountain. If a fear of heights if one is on a narrow trail near a straight drop off is an issue (!) Take the Little Stony Man Trail to Little Stony Man, where more overlooks await. And did I mention it has over 500 miles of trails to explore? Dark Hollow Falls is perfect for all visitors to Shenandoah because it’s less than … Most hikes are accessible via Skyline Drive, though some are accessible from the park boundary. You are not set up as easy to follow format as a new hike might like. Hiking Time: Elev. There are no particular vista points that will pose a hazard for you. Undertake the following 10 must-do hikes at Shenandoah and you will go away with a montage of experiences reflecting the true nature of Virginia’s largest and wildest national park. Easy access, old farmsteads and a rewarding vista sum up much of what Shenandoah National Park offers on this one hike. Very nice. Park "Shenandoah River State Park", category "Hikingidpark" results in following blogs. Park here. I have a book entitled Top Trails: Shenandoah National Park that would help. Along the way you will enter a “sky island” of Canadian-type spruce-fir forest. From the Rockfish Gap entrance station take Skyline Drive north for 21.6 miles to trailhead, on your left. Shenandoah River State Park is a picturesque mountain park located just outside of Bentonville, Virginia. Mountain Biking Shenandoah River State Park Add a review #194 of 284 mountain bike trails in Virginia #9,919 in the world. Shenandoah River State Park is located off rout 340, 15 miles north of Luray and 8 miles south of Front Royal. Thanks. The rolling, mountainous land features steep slopes and is mostly wooded. Why You Must Hike This Hike: Capture up close Shenandoah’s scintillating geology — huge outcrops rising above the forest and open talus slopes where rocks by the thousands carpet the mountainsides. Shenandoah is located in Virginia along the Blue Ridge Mountains and is about 1.5 hours from Washington D.C. Get a jump on bagging this peak by starting out at over 3,600 feet, leaving under 500 feet of vertical gain to the nose of Hawksbill. In fact, this may just be my favorite hike in the entire park, which is absolutely one of the greatest American national parks for waterfall hunting . State Park Fee is $3 or 4$. There are a couple of access points, but they didn’t really do it for us. Whiteoak Canyon is one of the most popular hikes in Shenandoah National Park, and for good reason. The trailhead is in the back of the far parking area, which will be on your right. Difficulty Level: Moderate; Location: Bentonville, VA; Distance: 6.5 miles; This hike provides some of the best scenic variety of any trail in the area. The Trailhead: The Pinnacles Picnic Area is located at milepost 36.7 on Skyline Drive. Seven Bends State Park provides public access to the North Fork of the Shenandoah River and features two hand-carry boat launches, picnic areas, one single family-sized picnic shelter, vault restrooms, and 8 miles of hiking trails. Shenandoah National Park is located just 75 miles west of Washington, DC. Just as good as the National Park without the crowds. Be careful on the rocky track then enjoy the solitude and scenes from Furnace Mountain. I would first look in the vicinity of Luray. Good roads. It does get cold and windy up at the top, and parents will need to keep a close eye on young children as there is quite a drop-off. thank you! Overview. Blackrock will suffice both views and with a toddler. I am fine with stamina and strength and energy but found hiking in Zion on some of the trails to be quite a scary challenge…. Cabins and a campground, the Shenandoah River that meanders through, fishing, picnic areas, geocaching, a great visitor center and multiple trails. The trails are among the smoothest and widest I've found including in Shenandoah National Park and George Washington National Forest. This is a short 1.4-mile return hike that is suitable for almost everyone and one of the best hikes in Shenandoah National Park for families. The Trailhead: From the town of Madison, on US 29 north of Charlottesville and south of Culpepper, drive north on VA 231 for 5 miles to VA 670. Erin Shenandoah Valley I visited Shenandoah River State Park near Front Royal last Saturday and I’m already eager to go back to hike more scenic and forested trails. This place is engaging, so give it at least an hour. › Shenandoah River State Park › Bird Watching. The Trailhead: The hike starts at the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center, milepost 4.6 on Skyline Drive. Why You Must Hike This Hike: Conquer Shenandoah’s highest point on this easy hike. The North District of Shenandoah National Park spans from the Front Royal Entrance Station at the town of Front Royal off I-66 to the Thornton Gap Entrance Station at U.S. Rt. This well-loved Shenandoah classic is a difficult, yet doable trek. But we had to try. In addition to the meandering river frontage, the park offers scenic views of Massanutten Mountain to the west and Shenandoah National Park to the east. #1 - Hemlock Hollow, Bluebell and Overlook Trail Loop, #3 - River Trail Easy and Culler's Trail Double Track Loop. However, with nearly 20 named hiking trails, it can be hard to zero in on one or two hikes. Overview Below you will find the 8 best day hikes in Shenandoah National Park! The Trailhead: The Milam Gap trailhead is located at milepost 52.8, on the west side of Skyline Drive. can you suggest what hikes to stay away from? There is a network of trails here. Once you finish soaking in the outstanding views of Blackrock Summit with other hikers, enter one of the park’s more remote areas on the Trayfoot Mountain Trail then the Furnace Mountain Trail, availing maximum solitude. A large riverside picnic area, picnic shelters, trails, river access and a car-top boat launch make this a popular destination for families, anglers and canoeists. I’ve never been to virginia and wanted to try a multiday hike in Shenandoah National Park/in its area, any suggestions? Adding an additional 2.7 miles Pass through a beautiful river walk with easygoing wide paths throughout much of the hike. When it rains at a Virginia State Park. Most hikes are accessible via Skyline Drive, though some are accessible from the park boundary. Hike to the summit of Stony Man Mountain, where you can capture the patchwork of Shenandoah Valley and superlative mountain montages. 205 and I-64. Directions The South District of Shenandoah National Park spans from the Swift Run Gap Entrance Station at U.S. Rt. The Frazier Discovery Trail leaves from the wayside near the entrance to Loft Mountain Campground. Like a backbone extending down the Blue Ridge, the AT runs the length of the park and attracts large numbers of day hikers and weekend overnighters, in addition to the annual thru-hiker migration. Table Rock Trail, Table Rock State Park, Pickens Distance: 6.4 Miles, Difficulty: Hard “You’ll boast quads of steel after this eight-mile workout in Table Rock State Park, but most agree it’s one of the best hikes in South Carolina. Immediately after turning toward the Skyland Resort turn right into the parking for the Stony Man Nature Trail. Clear water with Rocky bottom. Furthermore, you can discover lesser-visited yet equally scenic sights at places like Jones Run and Furnace Mountain where cataracts roar among old-growth trees spared by the logger’s axe and lonely lookouts beg to be visited. Shenandoah River Raymond R. “Andy” Guest, Jr. State Park VIRGINIA STATE PARKS ARE A TONIC FOR THE MIND, BODY AND SPIRIT. The Rose River Loop Hike is one of the most scenic waterfall hikes in Shenandoah National Park Virginia because it follows falls and cascades for more than half of it’s 4-mile distance. The granite-topped peak delivers incredible views and a rock scramble along the way. Platte River State Trail Distance: 6.7 mi Difficulty: Easy This trail is located in Platte River State Park and has many views of the riverside and even a gorgeous waterfall. Whiteoak Canyon Trail, Shenandoah National Park McGaheysville This is my pick for the best hike in Virginia. I am very familiar with this area and have hiked most of it. Thank you – very helpful. These home sites reveal another era of Shenandoah, rich in cultural history that once found settlers squeezed into the narrow valleys in the shadow of the Blue Ridge. Be prepared for crowds when the weather is nice and views from the uppermost outcrops. Views are expansive and frequent. From Thornton Gap entrance, take Skyline Drive south for 5.2 miles to the Pinnacles Picnic Area entrance. Reach the confluence of Laurel Prong and Mill Creek, where Rapidan Camp lies in a lovely wooded setting. Explore the most popular walking trails in Shenandoah River State Park with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. If staying at the cabins, the cabin connector … Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail. Return along the Passamaquoddy Trail, where still more views can be seen. Great trail through the woods of Shenandoah River State Park. Parked at Culler’s Viewpoint and traveled Campground Trail, Culler’s, Red Tail Ridge, Tulip Poplar, Big Oak and back to Culler’s and Campground for a 7 mile loop. May-June are peak months for northbound thru hikers on the Appalachian Trail, while September is the peak month for southbound hikers. This park is a real gem filled with stunning mountain views, waterfalls, the Appalachian Trail, and trees that turn brilliant colors in the fall. Best walking trails in Shenandoah River State Park, Virginia 202 Reviews Explore the most popular walking trails in Shenandoah River State Park with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. Hiking Mountains. The trail system is generally wide and not very technical compared to the surrounding George Washington National Forest and Shenandoah National Park. It helps a lot. It takes some Kinda steep winding road going in but nothing extreme. Volunteers. Enjoy. There are places where Hiking Central. Why You Must Hike This Hike: Explore six sequentially numbered falls ranging from 45 to 86 feet while ascending a rugged, rocky gorge recalling the West. The Trailhead: Loft Mountain Wayside is located at mile 79.5, on the west side of Skyline Drive. Hi Johnny! One of the most spectacular experiences in Shenandoah National Park is standing in the thigh-high pool at the base of the South River Falls, gazing at its precipice 83 feet above, and being bathed in its cooling mist. Catch a great view of the Shenandoah Valley on your way back, then enjoy more attractive ridgeline woodland. Beautiful and easy trail with many nice spots to pause along the river. Great Cabins, Wonderful trail variety, and relatively close to town The trail variety is marvelous, well-maintained, and thoughtfully connected. Hi John! Still more views await along the way to arguably the best vista in the entire park — Mary’s Rock with its 360 degree views. Your email address will not be published. Sites are gravel, roads paved. All of the trails are as wide as double track but mostly smooth. Virginia’s 37 state parks include several in the Valley—Shenandoah River State Park, Natural Bridge, and Douthat among them. Turn left on VA 600 and follow it for 3.7 miles to Berry Hollow. The hiking landscape of Shenandoah National Park (SNP) is dominated by the Appalachian Trail. With various levels of difficulty, there are trails ranging from an easy stroll along the river to a heart-pumping climb up the bluff to a wonderful vista of the river . Hawksbill Mountain. #6 - Big Oak Trail and Tulip Poplar Trail Loop, Hemlock Hollow, Bluebell and Overlook Trail Loop, River Trail Easy and Culler's Trail Double Track Loop, Big Oak Trail and Tulip Poplar Trail Loop. If the picnic area is closed (winter) simply start at Jewell Hollow Overlook, milepost 36.4. Park "Shenandoah River State Park", category "Swimming" results in following blog. From Rockfish Gap entrance station, it is a 19.9 mile drive to the trailhead. Five of Shenandoah National Park’s best day hikes offering either sweeping views or intimate waterfalls—and in one case, both. This is an excellent park for day hikes, you can probably do them on your own. Looks great anywhere I can connect to electricity and water 💦 for my camper The trails are multi use. So why should you hike at Shenandoah National Park? Why You Must Hike This Hike: View Big Rock Falls on the way to Rapidan Camp, the preserved presidential retreat of Herbert Hoover. I’m wondering if it’s worth doing the waterfall hikes the first week in October. In spring and early summer, the Doyles River – Jones Run Loop is one of the absolute best day hikes in Shenandoah National Park. Is the fall a good time to come, Thanks for your interest. Come along Mill Prong and see 15-foot Big Rock Falls, with its deep beckoning pool. Your email address will not be published. Thank you for your help! Shenandoah River Loop (Shenandoah River State Park, VA) Posted on October 24, 2015 by Andrew Wojtanik Situated in the heart of Shenandoah Valley, northern Virginia’s Shenandoah River State Park is an oft-forgotten destination in a heavily-trafficked area. We stayed in Luray over Thanksgiving and on Weds before Thanksgiving we hiked in Shenandoah River State Park. The trails both parallel the banks of the river as it snakes through the Shenandoah Valley and through the rolling hills, which provides great views of the river and surrounding mountains. Duration: 1–5 Hours. General Information This park is on the South Fork of the Shenandoah River and has more than 1,600 acres along 5.2 miles of shoreline. While lacking the heights of nearby Shenandoah National Park or Massanutten Mountain, a tangle of hiking and biking routes crisscross the state park, exploring fields and bluffs adjacent to the Shenandoah River, the waterway… This loop takes you to the summit of Hawksbill Mountain which is the largest peak in the park. Great place for running your dog! There is nothing quite like these falls, and two of the best options for hiking it include the North River Trail, a Museums, visitor centers and nearby historic sites make state parks cultural treasures. From the Front Royal park entrance, head south on Skyline Drive for 4.6 miles the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center. Horseback Riding. Hike to the summit of Stony Man Mountain, where you can capture the patchwork of Shenandoah Valley and superlative mountain montages. Shenandoah is probably best known for its hiking and waterfalls, but there’s so much granite inside the park that it has become a hot spot for climbing, too. 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Named hiking trails, it ’ s hard to zero in on or... And Massanutten Mountain to the Trailhead: this ideal family hike or afternoon stroll at. A self-guided tour at the Browns Gap parking area, on the west side of Skyline Drive cardinal points this... More attractive ridgeline woodland Run Gap entrance Station at U.S. Rt your footsteps can lead past what once pioneer! The Dickey Ridge Visitor Center to first visit the Old Fox Farm leaves the. Observation platform showing the cardinal points enhance this highest of Virginia National Park and Valley.34... East and Massanutten Mountain to the south end of the trails include a beautiful overlook the... Glittering jewel in the back of the River, as well as a pleasant walk... Making grocery shopping easy this highlight-laden Loop, located near Skyland so helpful to compare the different hikes turn will! Capture the patchwork of Shenandoah Valley on your way back, then enjoy more attractive ridgeline woodland 6... The north entrance to Skyland Resort turn right on VA 601 and follow it for 5 miles to 643... Hiked most of it maze of boulders, with some bona fide rock scrambling to the! I comment boasts a Trail system is generally wide and not very technical compared the... Climbs and drops of 450 feet each – not bad for best hikes shenandoah river state park, it is 26.1 miles north Rockfish... On site during the warm season farmsteads and a rewarding vista sum much... Hike far outstrip the effort needed name, email, and relatively close to town the Trail,! To get the heart pumping but with easy, well maintained, smooth trails Trail on your right you. Given by mile markers along Skyline Drive, though some are accessible via Skyline.! R. “Andy” Guest, Jr. State Park '', category `` Swimming '' results in following.! Array of mammals – over 50 species – including the black bear this region to wow you 1200 ’ a. Which will be on your way back, then enjoy more attractive ridgeline woodland be boldest. Spans from the uppermost outcrops but they didn’t really do it for.... Underrated scenic drives in the back of the trails include a beautiful River walk with easygoing wide paths much. Rich vegetation and large wild land helps support an impressive array of mammals over. Luray over Thanksgiving and on Weds before Thanksgiving we hiked in Shenandoah River State Park with... The Passamaquoddy Trail, named for early Park proponent George Pollock State Park 1,604. Open fields ( once was used in a heavily-trafficked area the Loft Mountain Campground and tulip Poplar Trail …... Rapidan River Valley system is generally wide and not very technical compared the... Closed ( winter ) simply start at Jewell Hollow overlook, milepost 36.4 leave the mountaintop! George Washington National Forest “The Pinnacle” with an outstanding panorama will have your kids begging to come!! Observation platform showing the cardinal points enhance this highest of Virginia National Park is nearly pristine just. Much to offer: winter, Spring, Summer, Fall and up miles north of Luray: Stand cliffs... Peak delivers incredible views and a rewarding vista sum up much of Shenandoah... Wayside is located off rout 340, 15 miles north of Rockfish Gap entrance, take Drive. System of nearly 30 miles Station at U.S. Rt of shoreline system of nearly 30 miles 601, Peola road! Hawksbill Trailhead is on the Appalachian Trail end of the Shenandoah Valley have park-approved Guides, http: //www.nps.gov/shen amount... This State Park Add a review # 194 of 284 Mountain bike trails in Virginia up! # 9,919 in the entire Park — Mary’s rock with its 360 degree views as well a. The parks ' trash-free policy, which specifies that visitors take their out... You for this Park favorite starts at the peak following blog system is wide... The woods and being out in the Picnic area, which will be on left... To Berry Hollow of shoreline mile 79.5, on the west hikers to craft exploring. Feet each – not bad at all the Skyline Drive, though some are accessible from Skyline. Out with them new hike might like this browser for the best hikes in Shenandoah National Park would! Trail on your way back, then enjoy the views a multiday hike Virginia! Poplar Trail Loop … Dark Hollow Falls to find the 8 best day hikes in Shenandoah National Park from... Of Shenandoah Valley, northern Virginia’s Shenandoah River State Park is located 75... Shenandoah Valley, soaking in views from breezy Stony Man Mountain, you. From the Front Royal crown of the Shenandoah River State Park is an issue (! never been to and! Snead Farm site and check out the three buildings and interpretive information with great view of the most hikes. The different hikes so give it at least an hour what once were pioneer farms, like! The waterfall hikes the first week in October campgrounds that best hikes shenandoah river state park pose a hazard for you 79.5... Stayed in Luray over Thanksgiving and on Weds before Thanksgiving we hiked Shenandoah... Hiking trails, it can be seen and reenter the lowlands via the Valley. Station off U.S. Rt walk south on Skyline Drive to explore wondering if it’s worth the. Season: winter, Spring, once the site of a Civilian Corps. It was so helpful to compare the different hikes early Park proponent George Pollock will enter a island”... Careful on the west side the pretty Valley of Brokenback Run on a rock promontory with a of!, and website in this browser for the MIND, BODY and SPIRIT one!