10 Best Hikes in Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, is a hiker’s paradise. With over 500 miles of trails, it offers everything from gentle strolls to challenging climbs. Whether you’re looking for sweeping vistas, cascading waterfalls, or lush forests, Shenandoah has something for everyone. Here are the 10 best hikes in Shenandoah National Park that you won’t want to miss.
- Old Rag Mountain
- Dark Hollow Falls Trail
- Stony Man Trail
- Hawksbill Summit
- Marys Rock
- Whiteoak Canyon
- Bearfence Mountain Trail
- South River Falls Trail
- Overall Run Falls
- Appalachian Trail Section: Skyland to Pinnacles
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1. Old Rag Mountain
- Distance: 9.4 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Highlights: Iconic rock scramble, panoramic views
One of the most popular hikes in the park, Old Rag is a challenging but rewarding adventure. The rock scramble near the summit offers a fun and technical climb, and the 360-degree views at the top are simply breathtaking.
2. Dark Hollow Falls Trail
- Distance: 1.4 miles (out and back)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Scenic waterfall
This short trail leads to one of Shenandoah’s most photographed waterfalls. It’s a bit steep on the way back up, but the beauty of Dark Hollow Falls makes it worth the effort.
3. Stony Man Trail
- Distance: 1.6 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Panoramic views, kid-friendly
Perfect for families and beginners, this trail offers some of the best views in the park with minimal effort. The summit provides a stunning overlook of the Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
4. Hawksbill Summit
- Distance: 2.9 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Highest peak in the park
Hike to the highest point in Shenandoah for spectacular views. The loop passes through lush forests and leads to an open summit with panoramic vistas.
5. Marys Rock
- Distance: 3.7 miles (out and back)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Views of the Blue Ridge Mountains
Marys Rock is a rewarding hike with incredible views from the summit. It’s a great spot to take in the beauty of the park, especially at sunrise or sunset.
6. Whiteoak Canyon
- Distance: 4.6 miles (out and back to Upper Falls)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Multiple waterfalls
This trail features a series of cascading waterfalls and is perfect for those who love water features. You can extend the hike to a loop by combining it with the Cedar Run Trail for a more challenging experience.
7. Bearfence Mountain Trail
- Distance: 1.1 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Moderate (includes rock scramble)
- Highlights: 360-degree views
A shorter hike with a fun rock scramble, Bearfence offers one of the few places in the park where you can enjoy 360-degree views. It’s a must-do for adventurous hikers.
8. South River Falls Trail
- Distance: 4.7 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: 83-foot waterfall
This hike takes you to one of the park’s tallest waterfalls. The trail is well-marked and includes a scenic overlook as well as an optional spur trail to the base of the falls.
9. Overall Run Falls
- Distance: 5.1 miles (out and back)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Tallest waterfall in the park
The tallest waterfall in Shenandoah, Overall Run Falls is a beautiful destination, especially after a rainstorm. The hike offers lovely forest views and a peaceful atmosphere.
10. Appalachian Trail Section: Skyland to Pinnacles
- Distance: 4.3 miles (one way)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Views, forested trail
This section of the Appalachian Trail is a scenic stretch offering beautiful views and a tranquil forested experience. It’s perfect for those looking to experience a piece of the iconic trail.
Tips for Hiking in Shenandoah National Park
- Plan Ahead: Some trails, like Old Rag, require a permit. Check the park’s website for details.
- Pack Essentials: Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and proper footwear.
- Check Weather Conditions: The park’s weather can change quickly, especially at higher elevations.
- Start Early: Popular trails can get crowded, so hit the trail early to enjoy a quieter experience.
- Leave No Trace: Protect Shenandoah’s beauty by packing out all trash and respecting wildlife.
Shenandoah National Park’s diverse trails offer something for everyone, from serene walks to exhilarating climbs. Lace up your boots, hit the trails, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains!
