Shenandoah National Park

The Basics

Driving the scenic Skyline Drive is one of the most popular ways to enjoy the park; the route offers 75 overlooks along the way. You can also opt to explore via the park’s 500 miles of hiking trails, which include 101 miles of the famed Appalachian Trail. Other options include horseback riding, fishing, camping, and picnicking. To learn more about the park’s historic sites or the local wildlife, opt for a ranger-led hike or presentation.

Things to Know Before You Go

• You must pay a fee to enter the park; once you’ve paid, you can access the park for seven days.

• Gas is available at the Big Meadows Wayside in Stanley.

• Cell phone reception can be very spotty inside the park.

• If you’re planning to hike, wear sturdy shoes and bring sun protection and plenty of water. Temperatures on the mountain are colder than in the valley, so make sure to bring layers.

• Pets are allowed on most trails but must be on a leash.

• Most facilities and services in the park are accessible or accessible with assistance. The Limberlost Trail is wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

There is no bus or shuttle service through the park, so you must use a car or taxi to visit. There are four entrances: Front Royal is accessible via Highway 340; Thornton Gap is accessible via Highway 211; Swift Run Gap is accessible via Highway 33; and Rockfish Gap is accessible via Highway 250 and I-64.

When to Get There

Although the park is always open, most park facilities are closed from December to March. Skyline Drive is also closed periodically due to inclement weather. Fall is one of the most popular times to visit the park; visitors come for the fall colors, which usually peaks in mid- to late October. Many visitors also come in the spring, when the wildflowers are blooming.

Wildlife in Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is home to more than 200 resident and transient bird species, 50 mammal species, 30 reptile and amphibian species, and 30 fish species. White-tailed deer are a common sight. The park also has one of the densest populations of black bears in the United States; if you’re camping, make sure to use a food-storage locker or a bear pole and dispose of garbage in the park’s bear-resistant trash cans.

What month is best to visit Shenandoah National Park?

The most popular time to visit Shenandoah National Park is during the autumn, when the park is known for its vibrant foliage displays. The peak of its autumnal show varies year by year, so keep an eye on leaf forecasts; typically, however, early October is a good bet.

How many days do you need to see Shenandoah National Park?

To make the most of Shenandoah National Park, set aside a minimum of two days. That gives you enough time to journey the 105-mile (169-kilometer) length of Skyline Drive, hike some of its trails (including sections of the Appalachian Trail), visit several famous scenic overlooks, and more.

Is Shenandoah National Park worth it?

Yes, Shenandoah National Park is worth it. Following the Blue Ridge Mountains, it's home to some of the East Coast's most dramatic mountain scenery, as well as iconic roads like the Skyline Drive and hiking trails like the Appalachian Trail. Its wealth of wildlife and natural diversity make it a standout.

Are there mountain lions in Shenandoah National Park?

While there have been some scattered and unconfirmed sightings over the years, mountain lions (also known as cougars) are not generally thought to inhabit Shenandoah National Park. They were once present, but their population has dwindled so much that it’s highly unlikely visitors will encounter one in the park.

What do I need to know before going to Shenandoah National Park?

It's useful to understand the park's layout. Shenandoah National Park is divided into three sections—the North District, Central District, and South District. (The Central is the most popular, while the North and South offer secluded nature.) All visitors must also pay for an entrance pass before accessing the park.

Can you swim in the waterfalls at Shenandoah National Park?

Yes, you can swim in the park's streams and the swimming holes around its waterfalls—but take caution. The water here can be extremely cold, and swimming areas may require hiking to access. Visitors are also strongly cautioned not to climb around waterfalls, as rocks can be very slippery and dangerous.

Ways to explore

Driving the scenic Skyline Drive is one of the most popular ways to enjoy Shenandoah National Park. The route offers 75 overlooks along the way; given its proximity to Washington DC, it’s also doable as a day trip. Alternatively, you can opt to explore via the park’s 500 miles (805 kilometers) of hiking trails, which include 101 miles (163 kilometers) of the famed Appalachian Trail.

Other options include horseback riding, fishing, camping, and picnicking excursions. To learn more about the park’s historic sites or the local wildlife, opt for a ranger-led hike or presentation.

Accessibility

Some accessible hiking routes and facilities are located within the park, and driving may be an accessible way to explore.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water and snacks, hiking gear, camera, sun or rain protection

What to wear

Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate layers and good walking shoes, especially if you plan to hit the park’s trails.

Not allowed

Unleashed pets, hiking around the top of waterfalls, approaching or disturbing wildlife, damaging any park facilities

Amenities

Visitor centers, campgrounds, gift shops, charging and gas stations

Address 

Shenandoah National Park is located along the Blue Ridge Mountains in northern Virginia. The park is west of Washington DC, and is easy to reach by car, while its hiking and biking trails offer other recreational opportunities. Public transportation routes are limited.

Driving

Shenandoah National Park has four entrances, but the main one is located near Front Royal, Virginia, off of US 340 (Stonewall Jackson Highway). The drive is roughly 1.5 hours from Washington DC.

Public transportation

Because there are limited options for public transit to and from Shenandoah National Park, it is recommended that you book a tour that includes transportation instead.

Best times to visit

Shenandoah National Park is always open, though inclement weather can sometimes close certain routes. Aim for early morning or late afternoon to see Skyline Drive at its most scenic.

Best days to visit

Expect Shenandoah National Park to be busiest during weekends and holidays, particularly during the summer and fall—try for a weekday instead.

Best months to visit

Fall is one of the most popular times to visit the park, as Skyline Drive is renowned as one of the best leaf-peeping destinations in the region.

Special events

The national park hosts a number of special events, free-entry days, and ranger programs throughout the year; consult its calendar for more.