Top 5 Hikes in Shenandoah National Park

Looking for the best hikes in Shenandoah National Park? From easy waterfall hikes to summit overlooks, we have outlined everything you need to know about each of Shenandoah’s most popular hiking trails. Without further delay, here are the five best hikes in the Shenandoah National Park!

1. Thompson Hollow Trail
2. Old Rag Mountain
3. White Oak Canyon
4. Dark Hollow Falls
5. Buzzard Rock Overlook

1. Thompson Hollow Trail

• • Easy
  • 1.8 miles – 1 hour
  • Thompson Hollow Trail is commonly known as the Seven Pools. 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

• • Difficult
  • 9.4 miles – 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, making it one of the most popular hikes in the Shenandoah National Park.
  • Pro Tip: Visit this trail during the week instead of the weekend to avoid the crowds. 

3. White Oak Canyon

• • Difficult
  • 9.5 miles – approximately 5.5 hours
  • White Oak Canyon Trail is a difficult 9.5-mile out-and-back hike located near Syria, Virginia. Take note – this hike features a grand waterfall that has amazing swimming holes. Dogs are allowed on this hiking trail, 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

• • Moderate
  • 1.4 miles – approximately 1 hour
  • Dark Hollow Falls is a kid-friendly, out-and-back hike located near Stanley, Virginia. The hike features scenic waterfalls that you can splash in. There is the relaxing sound of rushing water for the duration of the hike.
  • Pro Tip: You’ll need to leave fido at home for this trek. 🐕

5. Buzzard Rock Overlook

• • Moderate
  • 2.8 miles – 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. 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. 

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