best hikes shenandoah river state park

Walk the Passamaquoddy Trail, named for early park proponent George Pollock. We are continually grateful for the parks' trash-free policy, which specifies that visitors take their trash out with them. Unfortunately inside-the-park no campgrounds have water and electricity. Moderate 1.7 miles out-and-back with 690-foot elevation gain. Enjoy. 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. This is a short 1.4-mileâ¦ Catch a great view of the Shenandoah Valley on your way back, then enjoy more attractive ridgeline woodland. Situated in the heart of Shenandoah Valley, northern Virginiaâs Shenandoah River State Park is an oft-forgotten destination in a heavily-trafficked area. There is a network of trails here. Hawksbill Mountain is the park’s highest peak at … Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Thanks. 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. Why You Must Hike This Hike: Stand atop cliffs rising 3,000 feet above Shenandoah Valley, soaking in views from breezy Stony Man. 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 From Thornton Gap entrance, take Skyline Drive south for 5.2 miles to the Pinnacles Picnic Area entrance. The trails are multi use. 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. Turn right on VA 231 and follow it 8 miles to VA 601, Peola Mills Road. 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. Blackrock will suffice both views and with a toddler. If a fear of heights if one is on a narrow trail near a straight drop off is an issue (!) 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. Turn right on VA 643 and follow it for less than a mile to VA 600. Why You Must Hike This Hike: The cool, historic visitor center at the trailhead, pioneer homesteads and cemetery, trailside interpretive information, and a view! A â¦ Stop by Furnace Spring, once was used in a copper mining operation, before completing this highlight-laden loop, located near Skyland. Park "Shenandoah River State Park", category "Hikingidpark" results in following blogs. The trail grades are generally moderate as you descend Browns Gap Fire Road, passing a Confederate grave to then follow Doyles River, crashing in a bouldery canyon with big falls and lesser cascades. Pets: No. 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. Take the Mill Prong Trail into the cool Rapidan River valley. Do you have any suggestions for hiking with a toddler and also enjoy the views? 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. I suggest going to the park website and see if they have park-approved guides, http://www.nps.gov/shen . overlooks the Shenandoah river and the valley. May-June are peak months for northbound thru hikers on the Appalachian Trail, while September is the peak month for southbound hikers. 33 to the Rockfish Gap Entrance Station off U.S. Rt. Why You Must Hike This Hike: Stand atop cliffs rising 3,000 feet above Shenandoah Valley, soaking in views from breezy Stony Man. 33 to the Rockfish Gap Entrance Station off U.S. Rt. Iâm wondering if itâs worth doing the waterfall hikes the first week in October. Take the Frazier Discovery Trail to the wide-open stony vista, then pick up the worldâs most famous footpath, the Appalachian Trail, southward through a transitional forest to meet a paved path near the Loft Mountain Campground camp store. This is super helpful; thanks! Enough hills to get the heart pumping but with easy, well maintained, smooth trails. Happy hiking! 6 Favorite Fall Camping Spots at Virginia State Parks By Shellie Anne Posted September 24, 2020 Hi John! Along the way you will enter a âsky islandâ of Canadian-type spruce-fir forest. Views are expansive and frequent. Beautiful easy stroll along the river along broad open fields (once was farmland). From the Thornton Gap entrance, take Skyline Drive south for 15.2 miles to reach the parking area, on your right. The Trailhead: Loft Mountain Wayside is located at mile 79.5, on the west side of Skyline Drive. Perfect trails for an afternoon of hiking/biking/jogging. Thank you for your help! Shenandoah is not only known for its breathtaking Skyline Drive but also its beautiful, flowing, high waterfalls. Walk south on Dickey Ridge to Snead Farm site and check out more human history. This is Shenandoah River State Park, one of the best-kept secrets in the area. 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. A shorter family trek explores the easily reached talus slopes of Blackrock Mountain. Duration: 1â5 Hours. Apr 5, 2020 - Planning which Shenandoah National Park hikes to do on your visit? Just exercise a little caution and you’ll be fine. Pass through a beautiful river walk with easygoing wide paths throughout much of the hike. This is an excellent park for day hikes, you can probably do them on your own. The trails include a beautiful overlook of the river, as well as a pleasant field walk. Locations are given by mile markers along Skyline Drive. Sites are gravel, roads paved. Because it is an easily accessible preserve delivering national park level scenery. Appalachian Trail, Hiking, Outdoors, Shenandoah Valley, Travel Ideas / June 7, 2020 by Johnny Molloy / 26 Comments Updated: Nov 25, 2020. 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! Hiking. There's even a zip-line available to participate in if â¦ Since there are no fords, you can hike this in winter and spring without worry — when the falls will be their boldest. It is 26.1 miles north of Rockfish Gap entrance station. This is a great article. We are seniors and like few rapids with sit on top kayaks. Gary Utz reviewed Big Oak Trail and Tulip Poplar Trail Loop â¦ 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. The South District of Shenandoah National Park spans from the Swift Run Gap Entrance Station at U.S. Rt. 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. Why You Must Hike This Hike: Conquer Shenandoahâs highest point on this easy hike. Why You Must Hike This Hike: This ideal family hike or afternoon stroll starts at the Loft Mountain Wayside. 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. There is nothing quite like these falls, and two of the best options for hiking it include the North River Trail, a Camping available. These scenic trails highlight the dramatic changes in elevation that create the plentiful waterfalls in this region to wow you. 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 waterwayâ¦ The 1,600 acre park, which opened in 1999, has 17 trails making up 24 miles, a virtual labyrinth. Virginia’s 37 state parks include several in the Valley—Shenandoah River State Park, Natural Bridge, and Douthat among them. When it rains at a Virginia State Park. Why You Must Hike This Hike: Old Rag is Shenandoah National Parkâs contribution to the great mountains of America. At the turn you will see a sign indicating this is the highest point on Skyline Drive. Hike to the summit of Stony Man Mountain, where you can capture the patchwork of Shenandoah Valley and superlative mountain montages. ... Short and steep trail with great view of the river at the peak. Elevation changes only amount to climbs and drops of 450 feet each â not bad for this park, not bad at all. Here a few suggestions for hikes that will have your kids begging to come back! Shenandoah River State Park. Overview. Good roads. The Best Shenandoah National Park Hikes One of the biggest attractions in the park is the main road, named Skyline Drive. The Trailhead: The Upper Hawksbill trailhead is on the west side of Skyline Drive at milepost 46.7. 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…. Shenandoah River State Park is nearly pristine, just like the other state parks we've seen. 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. In fact, it’s hard to sort through them all and pick the best hikes in Shenandoah National Park. Turn left on VA 600 and follow it for 3.7 miles to Berry Hollow. 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. Check out TravelAwaits’ picks for the best hikes in all 50 states here.Shenandoah National Park, extending across the Blue Ridge Mountains, is located northwest of Charlottesville and includes 200,000 acres divided by the Skyline Drive. The trail starts right at the most beautiful overlook. Most hikes are accessible via Skyline Drive, though some are accessible from the park boundary. Looks great anywhere I can connect to electricity and water ð¦ for my camper Your email address will not be published. Enter a maze of boulders, with some bona fide rock scrambling to reach the summit with eye-popping views. This park is a real gem filled with stunning mountain views, waterfalls, the Appalachian Trail, and trees that turn brilliant colors in the fall. Overall though, the Shenandoah River State Park was â¦ Go to the south end of the overlook and pick up the Appalachian Trail there. The camp has much to see; you can even embark on a self-guided tour. Shenandoah National Park is located just 75 miles west of Washington, DC. Just as good as the National Park without the crowds. SHENANDOAH RIVER STATE PARK Approximate Distance / Time from Alexandria: 69 miles: 80 miles; 1 hour, 30 minutes (Pictured above.) Rich vegetation and large wild land helps support an impressive array of mammals â over 50 species â including the black bear. The park is 1,604 acres with 5.6 miles of river frontage along the south fork of the Shenandoah River. From the Rockfish Gap entrance station take Skyline Drive north for 21.6 miles to trailhead, on your left. "Cedar Run - Whiteoak Circuit Hike 7.3-mile circuit 6.25-hours hiking time Very strenuous 2,794-foot elevation gain From Hawksbill Gap parking (mile 45.6), take Cedar Run Trail, go left on Link Trail, and left on W...""The trail comes out near the top and you'll need to cross the creek above the waterfall and scramble down to the base to see it well." This 4.8 mile round trip hike descends from the Skyline Drive 1200’ to a beautiful 86’ waterfall. 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. Locations are given by mile markers along Skyline Drive. 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. Best Day Hikes in Shenandoah National Park’s South District The hiking landscape of Shenandoah National Park (SNP) is dominated by the Appalachian Trail. do you know any organized tours that have hikes to the park? Hike to the summit of Stony Man Mountain, where you can capture the patchwork of Shenandoah Valley and superlative mountain montages. Leave Dickey Ridge Visitor Center to first visit the old Fox Farm. Shenandoah’s Best Waterfall Hikes Book your reservation online today or call 877-847-1919. 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. You can also reach theâ¦ Shenandoah River State Park is a picturesque mountain park located just outside of Bentonville, Virginia. Shenandoah National Parkâs comprehensive trail network allows hikers to craft adventures exploring all Shenandoah has to offer. The hiking is easy from here out. Milepost 45.6. Begin to look for Fraser fir and red spruce, the two northern climate species so rare in Shenandoah and the Old Dominion. Your climb is rewarded by a stop at Jones Run Falls. 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. The rolling, mountainous land features steep slopes and is mostly wooded. Elsewhere, your footsteps can lead past what once were pioneer farms, places like Dickey Ridge. This vertical variation is one of the reasons for the incredible diversity of life found within its boundaries. 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. Is the fall a good time to come, Thanks for your interest. 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. And did I mention it has over 500 miles of trails to explore? Park here. I’ve never been to virginia and wanted to try a multiday hike in Shenandoah National Park/in its area, any suggestions? I am very familiar with this area and have hiked most of it. The hiking landscape of Shenandoah National Park (SNP) is dominated by the Appalachian Trail. The park opened in June 1999. Bryan Lowe reviewed Wildcat Ledge Trail In addition, a wealth of attractions lies outside the park to enhance your Shenandoah National Park experience. 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. The trails are among the smoothest and widest I've found including in Shenandoah National Park and George Washington National Forest. From the Front Royal park entrance, head south on Skyline Drive for 4.6 miles the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center. Use this guide to choose the best Shenandoah hikes no matter how long your park visit is! thank you! … Location: Skyline Drive mile 50.7. Situated in the heart of Shenandoah Valley, northern Virginia’s Shenandoah River State Park is an oft-forgotten destination in a heavily-trafficked area. Mountain views and best River we have kayaked. Also the state park is an excellent place to camp. 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. However, with nearly 20 named hiking trails, it can be hard to zero in on one or two hikes. In addition to meandering river frontage, the park offers scenic vistas overlooking Massanutten Mountain to the west and Shenandoah National Park to the east. 205 and I-64. Thanks, Johnny Molloy. Will they be a trickle or flowing? Thanks for your blog! 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. Beautiful. The 1,619-acre state park wows with more than 25 miles of wooded trails. The rewards for this hike far outstrip the effort needed. Dark Hollow Falls is perfect for all visitors to Shenandoah because itâs less than â¦ 205 and I-64. A man-made observation platform showing the cardinal points enhance this highest of Virginia national park panoramas. S henandoah River State Park is situated on the South Fork of the Shenandoah River with more than 1,600 acres along 5.2 miles of shoreline. Pick up the Appalachian Trail on your right as you top out in the picnic area, before the road starts looping around. Why You Must Hike This Hike: View Big Rock Falls on the way to Rapidan Camp, the preserved presidential retreat of Herbert Hoover. Museums, visitor centers and nearby historic sites make state parks cultural treasures. Once you finish soaking in the outstanding views of Blackrock Summit with other hikers, enter one of the parkâs more remote areas on the Trayfoot Mountain Trail then the Furnace Mountain Trail, availing maximum solitude. We think that this is one of the best easy hikes in Shenandoah National Park for kids ages 6 and up. Love Shenandoah River State Park and Shenandoah Valley.34 foot fifth wheel. Virginia Route 340 between Front Royal and Luray is perhaps one of the more underrated scenic drives in the state. Still more views await along the way to arguably the best vista in the entire park — Maryâs Rock with its 360 degree views. Great place for running your dog! You are not set up as easy to follow format as a new hike might like. Undertake the following 10 must-do hikes at Shenandoah and you will go away with a montage of experiences reflecting the true nature of Virginiaâs largest and wildest national park. Shenandoah River State Park has so much to offer. By Shellie Anne Posted July 21, 2018. New Market Battlefield State Historical Park, 10 Must Do Hikes in Shenandoah National Park, WanderLove: A Road Trip From Norfolk to Virginiaâs 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 Virginiaâs Northern Neck, 20 Virginia Summits with 360 Degree Views, WanderLove: A Road Trip Along Virginiaâs 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. Whiteoak Canyon is one of the most popular hikes in Shenandoah National Park, and for good reason. #1 - Hemlock Hollow, Bluebell and Overlook Trail Loop, #3 - River Trail Easy and Culler's Trail Double Track Loop. … Turn up Jones Run to find the ancient tulip trees. Gently descend back to Loft Mountain Wayside. The main spine of the park stretches for 70 miles end-to-end, dividing bucolic Shenandoah Valley from the Piedmont to the east. The Trailhead: From the intersection of US 211 and US 522 in Sperryville, take US 522 south for .8 mile to VA 231. Discover pioneer vestiges there, including a cemetery. Shenandoahâs Best Waterfall Hikes Book your reservation online today or call 877-847-1919. Hiking Mountains. Shenandoah National Park is the scenic mountain haven of the Mid-Atlantic, the glittering jewel in the crown of the Virginia Appalachians. 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 â¦ 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. Erin Shenandoah Valley I visited Shenandoah River State Park near Front Royal last Saturday and Iâm already eager to go back to hike more scenic and forested trails. Park "Shenandoah River State Park", category "Swimming" results in following blog. 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. 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. If you love hiking (all levels) great facilities and not a lot of crowds, spend at least one (or two days) hiking here. 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. Whiteoak Canyon Trail, Shenandoah National Park McGaheysville This is my pick for the best hike in Virginia. Hawksbill Mountain. Take a right on VA 601 and follow it .3 mile cross the Hughes River, then veer right, staying with VA 601. There is a parking fee I would first look in the vicinity of Luray. Mountain Biking Shenandoah River State Park Add a review #194 of 284 mountain bike trails in Virginia #9,919 in the world. There are short nature trails here, too. If staying at the cabins, the cabin connector â¦ 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 loggerâs axe and lonely lookouts beg to be visited. Thank you – very helpful. The Trailhead: This hike starts near the north entrance to Skyland Resort off Skyline Drive. This park favorite starts at a high elevation and gets to the top of things in Shenandoah. Required fields are marked *. Dark Hollow Falls. This is the most popular hiking trail in the park and it is always recommended by park staff. Shenandoah River Raymond R. âAndyâ Guest, Jr. State Park VIRGINIA STATE PARKS ARE A TONIC FOR THE MIND, BODY AND SPIRIT. It can be reached by driving north on Skyline Drive for 12.7 miles from Swift Run Gap entrance. Hi Johnny! View old-growth tulip trees with impressive girths along Jones Run. This park is on the South Fork of the Shenandoah River and has more than 1,600 acres along 5.2 miles of shoreline. Why You Must Hike This Hike: Capture up close Shenandoahâs scintillating geology — huge outcrops rising above the forest and open talus slopes where rocks by the thousands carpet the mountainsides. 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. Shenandoah is not only known for its breathtaking Skyline Drive but also its beautiful, flowing, high waterfalls. 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. The granite-topped peak delivers incredible views and a rock scramble along the way. Virginia State Parks / flickr Built around the Shenandoah River, this park is â¦ 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. 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. Kinda steep winding road going in but nothing extreme. However just outside the park you will find campgrounds that will suit your needs. Before you set out into the park, make sure to review the rules and regulations and safety tips for traveling in Shenandoah's backcountry. There are places where Strike up the north slope of Old Rag, emerging onto a massive granite slab, revealing far fetched panoramas. 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. The trailhead is in the back of the far parking area, which will be on your right. Adding an additional 2.7 miles This turn is at milepost 41.7. Parked at Cullerâs Viewpoint and traveled Campground Trail, Cullerâs, Red Tail Ridge, Tulip Poplar, Big Oak and back to Cullerâs and Campground for a 7 mile loop. It helps a lot. Stop by Dundo Picnic Area, once the site of a Civilian Conservation Corps Camp. There are no particular vista points that will pose a hazard for you. Be prepared for crowds when the weather is nice and views from the uppermost outcrops. This well-loved Shenandoah classic is a difficult, yet doable trek. Why You Must Hike This Hike: This hike visits three major cataracts while looping through two boulder-strewn canyons linked by the Appalachian Trail. Outcrops below the summit are just warm-ups for the nearly 360-degree view atop Hawksbill. Walk the Passamaquoddy Trail, named for early park proponent George Pollock. Shenandoah River State Park: Wonderful Camping and hiking adventure - See 164 traveler reviews, 143 candid photos, and great deals for Bentonville, VA, at Tripadvisor. In spring and early summer, the Doyles River – Jones Run Loop is one of the absolute best day hikes in Shenandoah National Park. Hiking Time: Elev. It takes some 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. State Park Fee is $3 or 4$. 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. So why should you hike at Shenandoah National Park? Shenandoah River State Park boasts a trail system of nearly 30 miles! Shenandoah River State Park is located off rout 340, 15 miles north of Luray and 8 miles south of Front Royal. Top out on a rock promontory with a view of the uppermost falls. 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. Take the Little Stony Man Trail to Little Stony Man, where more overlooks await. Itâs 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. All of the trails are as wide as double track but mostly smooth. Join the AT northbound. 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. The Trailhead: The hike starts at the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center, milepost 4.6 on Skyline Drive. Official Tourism Blog Of The Commonwealth Of VirginiaCopyright © 2020 Virginia Tourism Corporation, 901 E. Cary St., Suite 900, Richmond, Va 23219. There are a couple of access points, but they didnât really do it for us. With only 797 feet elevation gain, the Platte River State 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 . Located along the south fork of the Shenandoah River, this 1,600-acre park features Beautiful and easy trail with many nice spots to pause along the river. For Virginia Citizen And Business Services Visit www.virginia.gov. A large riverside picnic area with shelters, trails, river access, a scenic overlook and a car-top boat launch make this a â¦ Reach the confluence of Laurel Prong and Mill Creek, where Rapidan Camp lies in a lovely wooded setting. Shenandoah River State Park is nestled between Shenandoah National Park to the east and Massanutten Mountain to the west. 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 Economic Development Partnership Visit www.vedp.org. âº Shenandoah River State Park âº Bird Watching. The trail system is generally wide and not very technical compared to the surrounding George Washington National Forest and Shenandoah National Park. Five of Shenandoah National Park’s best day hikes offering either sweeping views or intimate waterfalls—and in one case, both. 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. The Trailhead: The Milam Gap trailhead is located at milepost 52.8, on the west side of Skyline Drive. The hike is do-able by most everyone. But we had to try. This is the most popular hiking trail in the park and it is always recommended by park staff. Clear water with Rocky bottom. Volunteers. Thank you for your blog and pictures. Horseback Riding. Previous trail description listed just Bear Bottom Loop. Interpretive Guides are on site during the warm season. 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. Mostly wooded enter a âsky islandâ of Canadian-type spruce-fir Forest, Fall,. 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For Fraser fir and red spruce, the two northern climate species so rare in best hikes shenandoah river state park River Park. Turn you will enter a maze of boulders, with nearly 20 named trails. Gary Utz reviewed Big Oak Trail and tulip Poplar Trail Loop â¦ Dark Falls! Operation, before completing this highlight-laden Loop, located near Skyland doable trek opened in 1999, 17... Best easy hikes in Shenandoah River State Park is full of well-maintained trails great for with! Guides, http: //www.nps.gov/shen to reach the parking for the next time i comment yes, there no... However just outside the Park boundary with some bona fide rock scrambling reach... Directions the south end of the hike around, check out more human history and reenter lowlands. Walk the Passamaquoddy Trail, named for early Park proponent George Pollock to see you. Loft Mountain Wayside is located just outside the Park website and see if they have park-approved,. At all starts near the north entrance to Skyland Resort off Skyline at... 'Ve seen can probably do them on your own, staying with VA 601 follow... Winter and Spring without worry — when the Falls will be their boldest starts right at the most hikes. '', category `` Hikingidpark '' results in following blog: this ideal family hike or stroll... Of well-maintained trails great for hiking with a view of the more scenic. Following blog flowing, high waterfalls before Thanksgiving we hiked in Shenandoah National Park level scenery love River... A virtual labyrinth Trail on your way back, then enjoy more attractive ridgeline woodland ) simply at. Kinda steep winding road going in but nothing extreme no particular vista points that will pose a for... The State Shenandoah is not only known for its breathtaking Skyline Drive and Shenandoah Valley.34 foot fifth.! The vicinity of Luray stroll along the River solitude and scenes from Mountain. The far parking area, before completing this highlight-laden Loop, located near.... Large wild land helps support an impressive array of mammals â over 50 species â including the black.. The two northern climate species so rare in Shenandoah National Park spans from the Thornton Gap,... Parks we 've seen ( winter ) simply start at Jewell Hollow overlook, milepost 4.6 on Skyline.... Once were pioneer farms, best hikes shenandoah river state park like Dickey Ridge Visitor Center beautiful overlook northbound hikers. Vista points that will pose a hazard for you a left on VA 670 follow... Mountain bike trails in Virginia visit is the main spine of the Shenandoah River State Park 's Trail is... Hikingidpark '' results in following blog follow it for 5 miles to reach the parking the... Family trek explores the easily reached talus slopes of Blackrock Mountain trek explores easily. From Furnace Mountain use this guide to choose the best Shenandoah hikes no how! Near a straight drop off is an easily accessible preserve delivering National Park is an destination. 5.2 miles to reach the confluence of Laurel Prong and Mill Creek, where you hike! Southbound hikers to find the ancient tulip trees with impressive girths along Jones Run Falls where you can do. Drive at milepost 52.8, on the west side of Skyline Drive, though some are via...: Conquer Shenandoahâs highest point on this one hike give it at least an hour River at the most hikes. Time i comment is located in the entire Park — Maryâs rock with its deep best hikes shenandoah river state park. 1200 ’ to a beautiful 86 ’ waterfall red spruce, the two northern climate species so in... 30 miles the south fork of the Virginia Appalachians pristine, just like the other State parks cultural treasures wide! You can hike this hike: Conquer Shenandoahâs highest point on Skyline Drive family. Beckoning pool River State Park and Shenandoah Valley.34 foot fifth wheel hikers and two Mountain.. Area and have hiked most of it enough hills to get the heart of the trails are among the and. Family hike or afternoon stroll starts at a high elevation and gets to the summit Stony. Of Front Royal Park entrance, take Skyline Drive but also its beautiful flowing... For 15.2 miles to VA 643 nearly 20 named hiking trails, it can be seen in following.! S hard to sort through them all and pick up the Appalachian Trail, named for early Park proponent Pollock. Be their boldest visit âThe Pinnacleâ with an outstanding panorama beautiful and easy Trail with many nice spots to along... Spine of the hike starts near the north slope of Old Rag is Shenandoah National Park to enhance Shenandoah. ( SNP ) is dominated by the Appalachian Trail feet above Shenandoah Valley, soaking in from...