10 Amazing things to do in Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a breathtakingly beautiful place to explore and experience the great outdoors. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, the park offers an extensive range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy and admire. From hiking to camping, this park has it all and is sure to provide a memorable experience. Here are 10 amazing things to do in Shenandoah National Park.

I. Hike to the summit of Old Rag Mountain 

Old Rag Mountain is a popular hiking destination in Shenandoah National Park, and for good reason. The hike includes several unique sections that make the climb to the summit especially rewarding. From rock scrambles to breathtaking overlooks, there’s something for everyone on this challenging yet exciting trail. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes as you traverse through boulder fields and over rocky terrain. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the valley below and a sense of accomplishment as you reach the summit. Don’t forget to take plenty of pictures so you can share your adventure with friends and family! And if you time your hike right, you might even catch sunrise or sunset from the summit – a truly breathtaking experience.

2. Take a scenic drive along Skyline Drive 

Shenandoah National Park! Stretching for 105 miles, Skyline Drive is the main road that runs through the heart of Shenandoah. This scenic drive is a great way to experience the beauty of this majestic National Park. Along Skyline Drive, you will be able to take in breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, as well as access some of the most beautiful and iconic hikes in Virginia. 

From short day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips, there are plenty of ways to explore Shenandoah’s lush forests and get up close and personal with its wildlife. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable outdoor adventure, then look no further than Skyline Drive! 

When traveling along Skyline Drive, make sure to bring some extra snacks and water for your journey. There are several overlooks where you can stop for lunch or just enjoy the view.

3. Visit the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center 

The Dickey Ridge Visitor Center is a great place to stop for visitors to the Shenandoah National Park. Here, you can find information about the park and its many activities, including hiking trails, camping areas, picnic spots, scenic drives and more. 

The center also offers exhibits on local wildlife and history, as well as educational programs for kids. There is also a gift shop on-site, where you can find souvenirs and other keepsake items. The Dickey Ridge Visitor Center is open seven days a week from 9am to 5pm, year-round. Stop in for all your park needs — you’ll be glad you did! 

In addition to the many resources the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center has to offer, visitors can also take advantage of the nearby trails and programs. The Appalachian Trail runs through the center, making it a great place to access the trail for a day hike or an extended backpacking trip. 

There are more than 500 miles of maintained trails throughout Shenandoah National Park, so there’s something for everyone. The park also offers several interpretive programs, like ranger-led hikes, evening campfire talks and even live music concerts in the summertime. With so much to explore, you’ll never be bored when visiting the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center! 

4. Go rock climbing at Great Falls National Park 

Great Falls National Park is a great destination for rock climbers. The park is located in Virginia and offers numerous cliffs that range from 30 to 135 feet high, making it ideal for beginners and experienced climbers alike. There are a variety of routes available, including overhangs, slabs and cracks. Many of the climbs offer breathtaking views of the Potomac River and the cascading falls. 

The park also has a wide range of amenities for climbers, including rental gear and guided tours. There is an on-site climbing school for those who want to learn more about the sport, as well as experienced guides who are available to help out with any technical problems that might arise during the climb. 

If you’re looking for a challenging and unique outdoor adventure, Great Falls National Park is the perfect place to go rock climbing. With its stunning views, varied routes and range of amenities, it’s sure to provide an unforgettable experience. So grab your gear, lace up your boots and get ready to explore!

5. Take a guided tour of the park’s historic structures 

Take a guided tour of the historic structures in Shenandoah National Park and learn about their role in our nation’s history. 

Your tour guide will introduce you to the park’s architecture and its cultural significance, as well as explore the stories of those who lived here over the past centuries. 

On your journey, you’ll discover how Shenandoah National Park was shaped by wars, the Civil Rights movement, and changing land use restrictions. 

You’ll also get an up-close look at the park’s magnificent scenery with stops along Skyline Drive and its many scenic overlooks. With your knowledgeable tour guide, you’re sure to have a memorable experience exploring Shenandoah National Park’s historic structures. 

6. Go horseback riding through the park’s trails

Shenandoah National Park provides a picturesque setting for horseback riding. The trails in the park make for an enjoyable ride, winding through forests of oak and hickory trees. 

The park also features expansive vistas with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. 

There are two popular rides within the park: Big Meadows to Skyland and Byrd Visitor Center to Big Meadows. 

Both rides take around two hours, and the park provides horse rentals for visitors who do not have their own mounts. 

Riders are expected to be experienced with horseback riding and must follow all park rules when on the trails. It is also important to note that horses are not permitted on any of the paved roads in Shenandoah National Park or along Skyline Drive. 

So if you’re looking for a unique way to experience the beauty of this national park, why not try a horseback ride? With its winding trails and majestic views, it’s sure to make for an unforgettable adventure!

7. Take a leisurely walk along the White Oak Canyon Trail 

The White Oak Canyon Trail takes you through the beautiful Shenandoah National Park, winding along the riverbanks and up and down the valley. 

Along the way, you will be immersed in nature and have plenty of opportunities to take picturesque photos. The trail is considered moderately difficult due to its elevation changes, but it is well worth it as you’ll get stunning views at different points along the route. 

As you trek through this tranquil scenery, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including deer, black bears, bald eagles, herons and more!

If you’re looking for a great hike with spectacular views that won’t take all day, then make sure to visit the White Oak Canyon Trail – you won’t regret it!

8. Go fishing in one of the park’s streams or rivers 

Fishing in Shenandoah National Park is a great way to experience the natural beauty and serenity of the park. There are over 50 miles of streams and rivers in the park offering excellent trout fishing opportunities. 

Anglers can fish for rainbow, brown, and brook trout in all of these waters. Fishing is available year-round but the best times are between April and June for rainbows, July through October for Browns, and May through September for Brookies. 

Fishermen should check with Virginia state regulations before attempting to take any fish home as there are some restrictions on minimum size limits and number of catches. 

Remember to always follow the rules when fishing in the park so that future generations may enjoy this activity too!

9. Take a nature photography workshop 

Shenandoah National Park is a popular destination for avid nature photographers, offering some of the most scenic and breathtaking views in the United States. 

A nature photography workshop in this park can create an unforgettable experience for both novice and experienced photographers alike. 

The workshop will take participants on a journey through some of the most beautiful locations in Shenandoah National Park.

 From rocky peaks to lush valleys and cascading waterfalls, there are countless opportunities to capture stunning photos and create lasting memories. 

Participants will learn about different camera settings and techniques for capturing amazing photographs in nature, as well as tips on how to compose images that best capture their subject’s beauty. 

They’ll also receive personalized instruction from a professional photographer who can provide guidance and direction throughout the workshop. 

After the workshop, participants will have a much better understanding of how to use their camera and be able to take home stunning nature photos they can cherish for years to come. So don’t miss your chance to take an unforgettable journey through Shenandoah National Park with this unique photography workshop!

10. Go stargazing at one of the park’s designated dark sky areas

Shenandoah National Park is one of the best places in the country to go stargazing, thanks to its designated dark sky areas. 

Visitors can take a night hike through Big Meadows or drive along Skyline Drive for some of the clearest views of the stars and constellations. 

On clear nights, even stars from distant galaxies can be seen! Pack a blanket and plan on spending at least an hour or two exploring the night sky – you won’t regret it! 

For those who want to learn more about astronomy while they star gaze, there are plenty of educational programs and resources available at Shenandoah National Park as well. So grab your binoculars and head out into this national park for a one-of-a-kind stargazing experience!