Shenandoah National Park was established in 1935 by Franklin Roosevelt. The name itself comes from Native American languages and while many translations have been thrown out the most popular is "Beautiful Daughter of the Stars". The translation goes along with the legend that the park was once a Great Lake in which the Native Americans could see the heavens in the mirrors water (the beautiful daughter of the stars). The main drive and structure of the park was completed at the beginning of World War 2. Previously the park had been a place where settlers had lived for centuries and even remains of prehistoric creatures have been found in the park. The park is one to visit for its rich history alone.
Dos:
Begin Your Journey at Dickey Ridge Visitor Center: Start your adventure by visiting the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center, where friendly park rangers can provide valuable information and offer trail maps to guide you through the park's wonders. Also do not forget to get your stamp!
Drive the Iconic Skyline Drive: Shenandoah National Park boasts one main road, Skyline Drive. This picturesque route runs parallel to the Appalachian Trail, providing awe-inspiring views and access to numerous trailheads.
Camping at Matthew's Arm: Consider camping at Matthew's Arm campground in the middle of the park for $30, where the serene surroundings and shaded campsites create an ideal setting. The weather in late July was absolutely perfect and the campsite was perfectly shaded with a nice breeze. There is also some hikes directly from the campsite. Find it here: 38.76166° N, 78.29821° W
Hike to Snead Farm via Dickey Ridge Loop Trail: This 3.8-mile hike with an elevation gain of approximately 731 feet takes you to Snead Farm, a historic site once owned by a local family before the park acquired it in 1962. The family once owned 200 acres of the park. Explore the preserved white barn and stone foundations of two other structures. Continue on the Dickey Ridge loop for a stunning valley overlook.
Visit Skyland Resort: Explore the historic Skyland Resort in the park's central region. Before the park itself was established a rural resort was created in the 1800s. The resort was home to elaborate balls, tea times, costume parties, jousts, and games of all kinds. You can still book accommodations to experience the charm of this bygone era resort.
Hike the Stony Man Trail: For the most breathtaking panoramic view of the park, embark on the Stony Man Trail. With a relatively short 1.6-mile hike and a 340-foot elevation gain, this trail rewards hikers with unforgettable vistas.
Explore Other Trails: If Stony Man Trail is crowded, try the Miller's Head Trail, offering similar scenic beauty with a 1.6-mile length and a 450-foot elevation gain.
Drive to the Big Meadows Area: The Big Meadows area features Dark Hollow Falls, the park's most famous 70ft waterfall, with a 1.4-mile trail and a 440-foot elevation gain. Disclaimer: this hike is short but brutal. You go downhill all the way to the waterfall then climb you way back up.
Listen to "Take Me Home, Country Roads" by John Denver: For a laugh listen to the iconic song "Take Me Home, Country Roads" by John Denver, which mentions the Shenandoah River that meanders through the park.
Stop at Pure Eats: We were starving after our second day of hiking and did not feel like cooking so we decided to get a bite to eat on the way to our next location. Located in Lexington, VA, in a beautiful small town this diner has milkshakes that are to die for.
Don’ts:
Expect Fast Travel: Shenandoah National Park offers one road, the Skyline Drive, which winds through the park. It takes approximately three hours to traverse its length, so patience is key to fully appreciate the journey....and gas.
Anticipate Detailed Historical Signage: While the park is steeped in history, you may need to conduct some research to fully understand the significance of certain buildings and sites, as detailed historical signage is limited. For example it took me so long to find the significance of Snead farm and why it is one of the best hikes. The reasoning is simple: the family owned 200 acres of the park. I do not know what I was expecting but that answer took me a while on google for minimal satisfaction.
Count on Cell Service or Wi-Fi: Embrace the opportunity to disconnect from the digital world, as the park lacks cell service and Wi-Fi within its boundaries. It's a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of the park.
Shenandoah National Park is where you can lose yourself in the beauty of nature and find yourself in the stories of the past. As you explore its trails, gaze upon its vistas, and savor its peaceful solitude, you'll leave with not just memories but a sense of connection to this "Beautiful Daughter of the Stars." Overall, the park is a great place to visit for all kinds of hikes and is an easy drive from Washington DC.
Onto the next sky!
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