Shenandoah National Park

Explore the outdoors.

Dramatic expanses of protected wilderness, fascinating historic sites, and the tradition of inspired recreation make Shenandoah National Park a must-see destination. “Ride the Sky” along Skyline Drive, savor regional specialties with farm-to-fork flavors at Skyland and Big Meadows Lodge, enjoy live entertainment, attend a wide range of events and NPS programs, take a hike, or explore the park on horseback.

SNP Favorites Explore some of Shenandoah's most popular experiences.

Skyland

Skyland is nestled along mile 41.7 and 42.5 at Skyline Drive's highest elevation — 3,680 feet…

Big Meadows

Big Meadows Lodge is located one mile from the large, grassy meadow at mile 51 on Skyline Drive — a…

Dining

Local, farm-fresh ingredients, spectacular regional cuisine, and tables with panoramic views are…

Skyline Drive

The National Scenic Byway rides along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains and through the heart of…

Hiking

Shenandoah National Park covers the rolling, tree-topped terrain of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains…

Activities

Shenandoah’s dramatic expanses of protected wilderness, fascinating historic sites, and tradition of…

Lodging

Shenandoah National Park's rough-hewn beauty is reflected and refined in its in-park hotel options…

Specials

Shenandoah National Park lodging getaways and deals offer packages at Skyland and Big Meadows Lodge…

More to Explore in Shenandoah Nature is Calling.

Camping

Shenandoah’s four main campgrounds are operated by the National Park Service, are open spring…

Stargazing

The crisp, clear Blue Ridge Mountains' air in Shenandoah National Park makes everything brighter in…

Rock Climbing

Shenandoah National Park rock climbing attracts rock hounds from far and wide who recognize that the…

History

A billion years ago, molten rock flowed through the earth’s crust, cooled, fractured, and formed the…

Shopping

Shenandoah National Park souvenirs keep your treasured national park memories top of mind. Stores…

Explore SNP hikes Hikes for all ages and skill levels.

Did you know?

  • More than 500 miles of trails, including 101 of the Appalachian Trail, lead visitors to panoramic views, waterfalls, protected wilderness, and preserved history in the Shenandoah Valley.

  • Shenandoah — the first of Virginia’s national parks — was dedicated on July 3, 1936. The dedication was attended by U.S. President Franklin Roosevelt, an enthusiastic supporter of the park and Skyline Drive.

  • Shenandoah National Park features President Herbert Hoover and First Lady Lou Henry Hoover’s rustic summer vacation home, Rapidan Camp.

  • The Civilian Conservation Corps, known as the CCC, played an integral part of the construction of many of the man-made features of Shenandoah, installing 136 miles of phone lines, constructing 1,145 miles of fire trails and 101 miles of hiking trails, and planting 147,595 trees and shrubs.

  • The 600-foot Mary’s Rock Tunnel was completed in 1932 and is considered a scenic wonder by the public. The iconic tunnel is featured on everything from postcards to jewelry. 

  • Shenandoah National Park is the only known location in the world of the Shenandoah Salamander, the only federally endangered animal species found in the park.

  • Skyline Drive rides the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains for 105 miles through Shenandoah National Park and joins the Blue Ridge Parkway, which connects Shenandoah to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

  • The geological story of Shenandoah began 1 billion years ago when molten magma, miles beneath the earth’s surface, slowly solidified to become the core of what we know today as the Blue Ridge Mountains.

  • Shenandoah National Park has one of the densest populations of black bears documented in the U.S.

  • The park encompasses parts of eight counties, including Page, and is headquartered in Luray.

  • Nearly 40 percent of Shenandoah’s land is designated as wilderness areas and is protected as part of the National Wilderness Preservation System.

Shenandoah National Park

Things To Do Near Shenandoah National Park

Explore an array of activities, attractions, and adventures are available right outside the park's Thornton Gap entrance in Page Valley that expand and enrich the seasonal splendor and rich experiences of the Shenandoah Valley.

 

Shenandoah River

Take in a different view of Page Valley from the middle of the South Fork of the Shenandoah…

Luray Caverns

Take in the sights of delicate stone formations and enormous chambers at Luray Caverns, the largest…

Things To Do With Kids

Outdoor adventures big and small, rich history experiences, and hands-on learning opportunities…

Free Things To Do

Whether it’s a day trip, weekend escape, or weeklong stay, getting away doesn’t have to…

Our Area

Page Valley in Virginia’s Northern Shenandoah Valley is home to the scenic splendor of Shenandoah National Park, the underground wonders of Luray Caverns, and the storied lure of the Shenandoah River.

Luray

Home to Luray Caverns, a historic downtown district, a growing arts scene, and a variety of seasonal events, the Town of Luray, Virginia presents unique dining and shopping options, a charming Main Street, and lots of opportunities for…