Top 5 Hikes in Shenandoah National Park
Within the heart of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its awe-inspiring beauty and diverse landscapes. Encompassing approximately 200,000 acres of pristine wilderness, this cherished sanctuary boasts a tapestry of verdant forests, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic vistas that captivate the senses at every turn.
Traverse through dense woodlands adorned with a kaleidoscope of autumn hues, where sunlight filters through the canopy, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor. Discover hidden gems like the majestic Dark Hollow Falls or the enchanting Whiteoak Canyon, where crystalline streams tumble over ancient rock formations. With over 500 miles of well-maintained trails catering to all skill levels, hikers have ample opportunity to enjoy a variety of hikes in Shenandoah National Park.
For those who want to see the best hikes in Shenandoah National Park, keep reading on to learn more about our top 5 below:
- Thompson Hollow Trail
- Old Rag Mountain
- White Oak Canyon
- Dark Hollow Falls
- Buzzard Rock Overlook
1. Thompson Hollow Trail
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- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: 1.8 miles
- Time: 1 hour
Thompson Hollow Trail is commonly known as the Seven Pools and is our favorite hike in Shenandoah National Park. This hike is an easy, kid-friendly adventure that leads to a series of small waterfalls with swimming holes. So, if you’re looking to cool off when the temps are high, this hike is for you! The short hike is out-and-back with the trailhead located in Bentonville, Virginia – right off the Skyline Drive.
Pro Tip: This hike is great for beginners, kids, and dogs.
2. Old Rag Mountain
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- Difficulty: Hard
- Length: 9.4 miles
- Time: Approximately 5 hours
Old Rag Mountain is a challenging 9.4-mile loop trail located near Etlan, Virginia that features views of the Hughes River. It has a breathtaking summit overlook of the area, making it one of the most popular hikes in the Shenandoah National Park. Be prepared for often muddy trail conditions and potential rock scrambling to get the best views.
Pro Tip: Visit this trail during the week instead of the weekend to avoid the crowds.
3. White Oak Canyon
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- Difficulty: Hard
- Length: 9.5 miles
- Time: Approximately 5.5 hours
White Oak Canyon Trail is a difficult 9.5-mile out-and-back hike located near Syria, Virginia that features a stunning long walk in the woods with beautiful foliage. Take note – this hike features a grand waterfall that has amazing swimming holes to enjoy during the summer heat. Fortunately for pet lovers, dogs are allowed on this hiking trail but must be under owner control with a leash.
Pro Tip: This hike can get muddy, so be sure to pack boots with good traction. You might even want to bring trekking poles.
4. Dark Hollow Falls
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- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: 1.4 miles
- Time: Approximately 1 hour
Dark Hollow Falls is a kid-friendly, out-and-back hike located near Stanley, Virginia featuring one the best waterfalls in Shenandoah National Park. Given the short length of the hike, hikers of all ages and fitness levels will enjoy the gorgeous foliage and relaxing sounds of cascading waterfalls as they visit the tranquil pools.
Pro Tip: You’ll need to leave fido at home for this trek. 🐕
5. Buzzard Rock Overlook
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- Difficulty: Moderate
- Length: 2.8 miles
- Time: Approximately 1.5 hours
Buzzard Rock is an out-and-back hike located near Front Royal, Virginia that features a great forest setting and stunning views. Although this hike is not inside Shenandoah National Park, it is very close by and worth mentioning as one of the best hikes in Shenandoah National Park. The full hike is a challenging 7 miles and requires some scrambling, but we recommend the shorter 2.8-mile hike for beginner to intermediate hikers.
Pro Tip: The parking lot for Buzzard Rock is limited. Consider carpooling with friends to save on space & help the environment.
More Information About The Best Hikes in Shenandoah National Park
Do you need hiking boots for hiking in Shenandoah National Park?
- While hiking boots aren’t 100% necessary, it’s recommended to have sturdy footwear for long hikes in the park.
Can you hike along Skyline Divide?
- Absolutely! Many popular hikes start along Skyline Divide including one of our favorites, Dark Hollow Falls, and many more like Hawksbill Summit, Rose River Falls, and Bearfence Mountain.
What is the most popular waterfall hike in Shenandoah National Park?
- While every hiker has their preferences, one of the best waterfall hikes in Shenandoah National Park is Dark Hollow Falls.
What are the easiest hikes in Shenandoah National Park?
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- Limberlost Trail: This accessible loop trail near the Swift Run Entrance Station offers a gentle stroll through a serene forest, featuring interpretive signs highlighting the area’s natural and cultural history.
- Fox Hollow Trail: Beginning at the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center, this short trail meanders through a picturesque meadow before descending gradually into the woods, providing a tranquil escape with minimal elevation gain.
- Bearfence Mountain Trail: Known for its panoramic views, this short but invigorating loop trail features a rock scramble near the summit, offering a taste of adventure without requiring extensive hiking experience.
- Stony Man Nature Trail: Starting from the Stony Man parking area, this leisurely loop trail winds its way to the summit of Stony Man Mountain, offering sweeping vistas of the Shenandoah Valley and surrounding peaks with relatively gentle terrain.
- South River Falls Trail: Beginning at the South River Picnic Area, this out-and-back trail follows the gentle descent along the South River, leading to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the cascading South River Falls, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed hike with rewarding scenery.
Visiting one of the many hikes in Shenandoah National Park and want to spend a day on the river?
Join Front Royal Outdoors for a Shenandoah River tubing adventure or see one of our many Shenandoah River trips. The perfect trip for groups of family and friends. Book online today!
