Shenandoah National Park in Virginia is a hiker’s paradise. Nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains with over 500 miles of trails, the hiking opportunities are endless. This pristine wilderness offers incredible hikes for adventurers of all skill levels. From rugged peaks and cascading waterfalls to serene forested paths, this fantastic park is a haven if you seek unforgettable outdoor experiences. So lace up your boots, hit the trails, and prepare to discover the breathtaking beauty of this natural wonderland as we explore the best hikes in Shenandoah National Park!
- 1. Old Rag Mountain
- 2. Whiteoak Canyon and Cedar Run Loop
- 3. Hawksbill Mountain
- 4. Dark Hollow Falls
- 5. Stony Man Loop
- 6. Rose River Falls
- 7. Overall Run Falls
- 8. Mary's Rock via the Appalachian Trail
- 9. Lewis Falls
- 10. Bearfence Mountain Loop
- Final Thoughts
- National Parks List, Map, and Complete Guide (All 63 Parks + Downloadable List & Map)
- FAQs
1. Old Rag Mountain
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Distance: 9 miles
- Type: Loop
- Duration: 7-8 hours
- Elevation Gain: 2,400 feet
- Unique Features: Rock scrambling sections, panoramic summit views
- Trailhead Location: Weakley Hollow Parking Area, off Route 600 (Nethers Road). From there, the hike follows a well-marked path that leads you through dense forests, along rocky ridges, and to the summit of Old Rag Mountain itself.
The Old Rag Mountain hike in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, is an iconic and exhilarating adventure that attracts outdoor enthusiasts from near and far. This challenging 9-mile loop trail offers a thrilling and diverse experience, combining rocky terrain, dense forests, and breathtaking views.
The hike begins at the trailhead in the Weakley Hollow Parking Area. It takes you through various landscapes, including peaceful meadows and magnificent forests. As you ascend, you’ll encounter the renowned “Climbing Rocks” section, where you’ll navigate through narrow passages and scramble over large boulders, adding an element of excitement to your journey.
The summit awaits at the end of the climb, rewarding you with awe-inspiring panoramic vistas of the surrounding Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains. The rugged beauty of the landscape, combined with your sense of accomplishment, makes reaching the summit an unforgettable experience.
Throughout the hike, you’ll encounter multiple viewpoints and unique rock formations, providing ample opportunities to rest, take photos, and soak in the natural splendor. The descent follows a different path, offering new perspectives and additional scenic highlights.
The Old Rag Mountain hike is considered strenuous with its challenging terrain and approximately 2,400 feet of elevation gain. It requires a good level of fitness and endurance. Proper footwear, ample water, and snacks are essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
Due to its popularity, starting the hike early in the day is recommended to avoid crowds and allow ample time to complete the trail. You should also check the park’s website or visitor center for any updates on trail conditions or closures.
2. Whiteoak Canyon and Cedar Run Loop
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 8 miles
- Type: Loop
- Duration: 4-6 hours
- Elevation Gain: 2,329 feet
- Unique Features: Stunning waterfalls (Whiteoak Canyon Falls, Cedar Run Falls), scenic forest trails, stream crossings
- Trailhead Location: Whiteoak Canyon parking area, accessible from Skyline Drive
The Whiteoak Canyon and Cedar Run Loop hike in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, is a beautiful 8-mile trail that takes you through lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and scenic streams. The trail begins at the Whiteoak Canyon parking area.
It winds its way through the picturesque canyon, offering stunning views and opportunities to cool off in the refreshing pools below the waterfalls. The loop combines the beauty of both Whiteoak Canyon Falls and Cedar Run Falls.
This moderately challenging hike typically takes 4-6 hours to complete. However, it offers a fantastic opportunity to witness the natural beauty of Shenandoah National Park firsthand.
3. Hawksbill Mountain
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 2.9 miles (round trip)
- Type: Out-and-back
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Elevation Gain: 800 feet
- Unique Features: Stunning panoramic views from the highest peak in Shenandoah National Park
- Trailhead Location: Hawksbill Gap parking area, accessible from Skyline Drive
The trail to Hawksbill Mountain is a 2.9-mile out-and-back hike that showcases stunning views and diverse natural beauty. This moderately challenging hike offers a rewarding experience for hikers of various skill levels.
The journey begins at the Hawksbill Gap parking area, located off Skyline Drive. From there, the trail winds through the forest, gradually ascending to the summit. The trail is well-marked and maintained, making it easy to follow.
As you ascend, the scenery unfolds with each step. Lush forests, vibrant wildflowers, and interesting rock formations grace the path. Along the way, you might encounter wildlife, such as birds and deer, adding to the enchantment of the hike.
Reaching the summit of Hawksbill Mountain is the highlight of the journey. Standing at 4,049 feet, it provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Shenandoah Valley, neighboring peaks, and the park’s vastness.
4. Dark Hollow Falls
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: 1.4 miles (round trip)
- Type: Out-and-back
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Elevation Gain: 440 feet
- Unique Features: Picturesque 70-foot waterfall, lush forest scenery
- Trailhead Location: Dark Hollow Falls parking area, accessible from Skyline Drive
The Dark Hollow Falls hike is a 1.4-mile out-and-back trail that takes you to a picturesque 70-foot waterfall. It is a moderately rated hike, making it suitable for a wide range of hikers, including families and beginners.
The trail starts at the Dark Hollow Falls parking area, which is easily accessible from Skyline Drive. From there, the path meanders through a serene forest, offering a tranquil ambiance and a chance to immerse yourself in nature.
As you follow the trail, you’ll gradually descend into the hollow, allowing glimpses of the cascading waters and the soothing sound of the waterfall to guide you. The hike includes a series of switchbacks and well-maintained steps, ensuring a relatively easy and safe descent to the base of the falls.
Arriving at Dark Hollow Falls, you’ll be able to enjoy the impressive sight of the 70-foot waterfall plunging into a picturesque pool below.
5. Stony Man Loop
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: 1.6 miles
- Type: Loop
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Elevation Gain: 340 feet
- Unique Features: Panoramic vistas, views of Shenandoah Valley
- Trailhead Location: Stony Man Parking Area, accessible from Skyline Drive
The Stony Man Loop is a 1.6-mile trail that takes you to the summit of Stony Man Mountain. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley and surrounding landscapes. This is a moderately rated hike, making it accessible to a wide range of hikers, including families and beginners.
The trail starts at the Stony Man Parking Area, which is easily accessible from Skyline Drive. From there, the well-marked path leads you through a peaceful forest, with occasional openings that provide glimpses of the surrounding mountains.
As you ascend, the trail gradually becomes steeper, but it remains manageable for most hikers. Upon reaching the summit of Stony Man Mountain, you’ll be greeted by sweeping vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see.
After enjoying the panoramic views, the trail loops back, offering a different perspective as you descend through the tranquil forest.
6. Rose River Falls
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 4 miles
- Type: Loop
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Elevation Gain: 600 feet
- Unique Features: Cascading waterfalls, serene forest scenery
- Trailhead Location: Fishers Gap Overlook, accessible from Skyline Drive
The Rose River Falls hike is a 4-mile loop trail that takes you through lush forests and showcases beautiful cascading waterfalls. It offers a moderate difficulty level, making it suitable for hikers with some experience and a desire to explore the park’s natural wonders.
The trail begins at the Fishers Gap Overlook, accessible from Skyline Drive. From there, the path winds through a peaceful forest, following the course of the Rose River. As you hike, you’re treated to the calming sounds of the river and the lush greenery surrounding you.
The highlight of the hike is encountering the stunning Rose River Falls. These cascades showcase a picturesque display of rushing water, creating a serene and captivating atmosphere.
After enjoying the falls, the loop trail continues, leading you through the tranquil forest and offering glimpses of the surrounding natural scenery.
7. Overall Run Falls
- Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
- Distance: 6.4 miles
- Type: Out-and-back
- Duration: 4-5 hours
- Elevation Gain: 1,400 feet
- Unique Features: Tallest waterfall in Shenandoah National Park, scenic views, swimming holes
- Trailhead Location: Matthews Arm Campground, accessible from Skyline Drive
The Overall Run Falls hike is an out-and-back trail that spans approximately 6.4 miles. This superb path leads you to the tallest waterfall in Shenandoah National Park. It is considered a moderate to strenuous hike due to its length, elevation gain, and rugged terrain.
The trail begins at the Matthews Arm Campground and follows Overall Run, a scenic stream that cascades down the mountainside. As you hike, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of the forest, with occasional views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The hike’s highlight is reaching Overall Run Falls, a majestic waterfall that plunges 93 feet into a picturesque pool below.
8. Mary’s Rock via the Appalachian Trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 3.7 miles
- Type: Out-and-back
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Elevation Gain: 1,210 feet
- Unique Features: Panoramic views from Marys Rock summit, Appalachian Trail section
- Trailhead Location: Meadow Spring Parking Area, accessible from Skyline Drive
The Mary’s Rock hike follows a section of the iconic Appalachian Trail. It spans approximately 3.7 miles as an out-and-back trail. It is considered a moderate-level hike, making it suitable for hikers with a moderate level of fitness and experience.
The trail begins at the Meadow Spring Parking Area, which is easily accessible from Skyline Drive. From there, you’ll join the Appalachian Trail and ascend steadily towards Mary’s Rock.
As you hike, the trail meanders through a beautiful forest, occasionally offering glimpses of the surrounding natural landscapes. The gradual ascent allows you to enjoy the journey and appreciate the peaceful ambiance of the trail.
Upon reaching the summit of Mary’s Rock, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. From this vantage point, you can admire the vastness of the Shenandoah Valley, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the beauty of the park’s rolling landscapes.
9. Lewis Falls
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 3.3 miles
- Type: Out-and-back
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Elevation Gain: 520 feet
- Unique Features: Picturesque Lewis Falls, wooded surroundings
- Trailhead Location: Big Meadows parking area, accessible from Skyline Drive
The Lewis Falls hike is an out-and-back trail that spans approximately 3.3 miles, taking you to the beautiful Lewis Falls. It is considered a moderate-level hike, making it accessible to hikers with a moderate level of fitness and experience.
The trail begins at the Big Meadows parking area, which is easily accessible from Skyline Drive. From there, the trail leads you through a serene forest, offering a peaceful and immersive hiking experience.
As you hike, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of the wooded environment, with occasional glimpses of the nearby mountains and valleys. The trail gradually ascends, but the elevation gain is moderate, making it suitable for a wide range of hikers.
The highlight of the hike is reaching Lewis Falls. This picturesque waterfall cascades over rocks and creates a peaceful and captivating scene.
10. Bearfence Mountain Loop
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 1.2 miles
- Type: Loop
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Elevation Gain: 320 feet
- Unique Features: Rock scrambling, panoramic views
- Trailhead Location: Bearfence Parking Area, accessible from Skyline Drive
The Bearfence Mountain Loop is a 1.2-mile loop trail that takes you to the summit of Bearfence Mountain. It offers stunning panoramic views and an exciting rock scrambling section. It is considered a moderately rated hike, suitable for hikers with some experience and a sense of adventure.
The trail starts at the Bearfence Parking Area, which is easily accessible from Skyline Drive. You’ll follow a well-marked path from there that gradually ascends through the forest.
As you ascend, the trail brings you to a rock scramble section, where you’ll navigate through large boulders and crevices. This adds an element of excitement and adventure to the hike, allowing you to challenge yourself and test your agility.
Reaching the summit of Bearfence Mountain is the highlight of the hike. From the rocky outcrop at the top, you will be able to take in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Final Thoughts
Shenandoah National Park offers a wide variety of incredible hikes for all levels of hikers. Some of the best hikes include Old Rag Mountain, Whiteoak Canyon and Cedar Run Loop for waterfalls, Hawksbill Mountain for panoramic views, and the iconic Appalachian Trail to McAfee Knob.
With diverse landscapes, breathtaking vistas, and the opportunity to explore nature’s wonders, Shenandoah National Park truly has something for every hiking enthusiast.
While these are considered the overall best hikes in Shenandoah National Park, check out our FAQs below for additional insights and answers to frequently asked questions about hiking in this incredible national park.
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FAQs
What are the best months to hike Shenandoah?
The best months to hike in Shenandoah National Park are generally from April to June and September to November.
What is the most popular hike in Shenandoah National Park?
The most popular hike in Shenandoah National Park is the Old Rag Mountain hike.
Should I carry bear spray in Shenandoah National Park?
Carrying bear spray is unnecessary in Shenandoah National Park as black bear encounters are rare and typically non-confrontational.
How many days is enough for Shenandoah National Park?
A few days are generally enough to explore the main highlights of Shenandoah National Park. Still, the specific duration depends on your interests and activities.
Can a beginner hike Old Rag?
Old Rag is a challenging hike that may not be suitable for beginners due to its steep and rocky terrain.
What is the hardest hike in Shenandoah National?
As noted above, Old Rag Mountain is widely considered the most strenuous hike in Shenandoah National Park due to its challenging and technical terrain.
How much does it cost to hike in Shenandoah?
There is no specific cost to hike in Shenandoah National Park. However, there is an entrance fee for accessing the park by vehicle, which is currently $30 per vehicle for a seven-day pass.
What are the best hikes in Shenandoah National Park with dogs?
Some of the best dog-friendly hikes in Shenandoah National Park include Dark Hollow Falls, Stony Man, and Rose River Falls.
Do you need hiking boots for Shenandoah?
Hiking boots are highly recommended for a safe and comfortable hiking experience in Shenandoah National Park.
What are the stroller-friendly hikes in Shenandoah?
Shenandoah National Park does not have designated stroller-friendly trails. However, the Limberlost Trail near Skyland Resort is a relatively flat and paved trail that can accommodate strollers.
What is the most beautiful part of Shenandoah National Park?
The Skyline Drive, a scenic road that runs through the length of Shenandoah National Park, is often considered the most beautiful part of the park, offering stunning vistas and panoramic views.
