Best Things To Do In Shenandoah National Park

When deciding what to do in Shenandoah National Park, our minds almost explode with the amount of possibilities. 

There’s hiking! Biking! Camping! Backpacking! Rafting! Kayaking! Canoeing! Phew – we forgot to take a breath.

So, if you’re looking for the best things to do in Shenandoah National Park, you’ve come to the right place. Here are our top Shenandoah activities that you NEED to add to your list.

Best Things To Do In Shenandoah National Park

Hike the Famous Trails

With over 500 miles of trails to choose from, there is no shortage of hiking in Shenandoah National Park. From popular short scenic strolls to gorgeous legs of the famous Appalachian Trail, Shenandoah hikes span across all views, distances and difficulty levels. 

Popular Hikes in Shenandoah National Park

• Old Rag Mountain: Feel like you’re on the top of the world with this 9.4-mile hike. One of the park’s most popular and challenging hikes, it’s known for its rock scramble and rewarding 360-degree views.
• Dark Hollow Falls Trail: Easily one of the most popular and historic hikes in the park, Dark Hollow Falls is a shorter 1.6-mile hike leading to one of the park’s most picturesque waterfalls.
• Stony Man Trail: Stony Man is a steep but short lollipop loop trail with sweeping views and stunning overlooks.

Take a Scenic Drive on Skyline Drive

Skyline Drive is a 105-mile road that runs the length of the park, connecting you to all of the beauty in the area. If you’re seeing a gorgeous view by car, chances are you are on Skyline Drive! 

Skyline Drive is gorgeous year-round but is especially fantastic in the fall. From a midday relaxation activity between hikes to easy sunset outings, you can find a lot to ogle at on this trail. 

Key Stops on Skyline Drive

• Dickey Ridge Visitor Center (Mile 4.6): As the first major stop, this is a perfect place to pick up maps and learn about the park’s history. You can also talk to someone who knows the area, like the back of their hand, to help you plan your trip.
• Thornton Gap (Mile 31.5): This central access point offers a chance to hike Mary’s Rock for stunning mountain views and is close to the iconic Mary’s Rock Tunnel. It’s a great leg stretcher along the drive.
• Big Meadows (Mile 51): A unique open meadow along the drive, this area is ideal for spotting wildlife like deer and black bears. Big Meadows also offers a visitor center and facilities for a rest or picnic.

Explore the Waterfalls

If there’s one view Shenandoah is known for, it’s a tie between outlooks of tree-covered hills and a beautiful waterfall. When it comes to waterfalls, there are tons to choose from. With about 36 reachable waterfalls to enjoy in the park, you can get your fill of that lovely gushing water sound. 

The Best Shenandoah National Park Waterfalls

• Rose River Falls: There’s nothing better than a waterfall with swimming opportunities! This 67-foot, multi-tiered waterfall flows through a lush, fern-filled forest along a scenic loop trail that also passes Dark Hollow Falls and includes clear wading pools along the way.
• Lewis Falls: The Road less traveled can be very rewarding! This dramatic 81-foot fall is accessible via a moderate loop trail starting from Big Meadows. This lesser-visited waterfall provides beautiful views of both the falls and the Shenandoah Valley, especially striking during autumn.
• South River Falls: This secluded, 83-foot cascade can be viewed from an overlook or accessed by a trail leading to its base. This peaceful waterfall is surrounded by dense forest, providing a serene escape from the busier trails.

Shenandoah NP Educational Programs

If you want to learn more about the park, your best place to start is at a visitor center where you can learn more about the Shenandoah Educational Programs. From kid-friendly activities to fun events, you can get connected to the park alongside other nature lovers.

• Ranger-Led Programs: Ranger-Led Programs include guided hikes, evening campfire talks, and interactive presentations on topics like wildlife, geology, and park history. Programs vary seasonally and are suitable for all ages.
• Junior Ranger Program: Aimed at children ages 7-12, this program encourages kids to explore the park’s flora, fauna, and conservation efforts. Participants earn a Junior Ranger badge after completing challenges designed to educate and inspire young visitors. It’s the perfect way to keep curious kids busy and on task during hikes and nature strolls.
• Exhibits: Each visitor center has thoughtful exhibits offering context around the park’s history and stories. From early inhabitants to the ecosystem, a stroll through these exhibits will make your experience of the park that much more special.

What to Do Near Shenandoah National Park

When you leave the park limits, the fun doesn’t stop! The Shenandoah River is ready to welcome you with open arms and several awesome adventures: 

• Rafting: Plan a half-day, full-day or multi-day trip rafting on the Shenandoah River! With our four-person and six-person rafts, your group can experience class I and III rapids with beautiful Shenandoah River scenery.
• Tubing: Enjoy a couple of hours on a lazy river tubing trip! You and your group will each get a tube to float the river and a shuttle service to make the activity as simple as can be.
• Kayaking: Hop on a kayak and take your time enjoying the eddies and rapids of the river with half-day, full-day or multi-day kayak trips.
• Canoeing: Canoes have long been considered the ideal watercraft for paddling many parts of the Shenandoah River. Head out on a half-day, full-day or multi-day trip for a relaxing and exhilarating experience.
• Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP): Test your balance for a few hours on a Stand Up Paddleboard on the Shenandoah River. Enjoy a unique paddling style to navigate the river at your own pace.
• Fishing: Cast out over the Shenandoah River on a fishing trip! Our team can get you to some of the most popular fishing spots on the Shenandoah River.

If you are planning your dream road trip to Shenandoah National Park, you’re just steps away from a life-changing trip! If you end up in the Front Royal Area, check out all the thrilling and relaxing river activities we offer to plan a memorable afternoon on the Shenandoah River.