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Shenandoah National Park

Picnicking 3655 Hwy 211 East
Luray, VA 22835

Phone
Information Line: (540) 999-3500

Explore the Shenandoah National Park

Gazing across the horizon from the peaks of Shenandoah National Park it’s hard to believe you are just 75 miles from the bustle of our nation’s capital. Take Skyline Drive along the crest of the mountains through the woods and past spectacular vistas. Hike in the shade of oak trees along the Appalachian Trail, discover the stories from Shenandoah’s past, or just relax in the wonder of wilderness.

Directions:

Shenandoah National Park is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia just west of Washington, D.C. and stretches 105 miles from its northern entrance at Front Royal to its southern entrance near Waynesboro.

There are four entrances into Shenandoah National Park and numerous gateway communities that offer services. The park's four entrances are located at:

Front Royal, accessible via I-66 and Route 340
Thornton Gap, accessible via Route 211
Swift Run Gap, accessible via Route 33
Rockfish Gap, accessible via I-64 and Route 250

Things to Do

Whether you have an hour, a day, or a week, you can plan a great visit to Shenandoah National Park. Even if you are just passing through, use Skyline Drive for a portion of your route. Traveling from one of the four entrances to the next exit takes about an hour. Along the way you will see the beautiful vistas Shenandoah is known for.

If you can spend the day, check the ranger programs schedule for a hike, walk, or talk that interests you. If you can't make a scheduled program you may want to rent a GPS Ranger. Or look at our suggested day hikes. Visit one of the exhibits, go bird watching, or wander in Big Meadows.

A week (or more!) in Shenandoah will fly by with hiking, evening programs at the campgrounds, entertainment at the lodges, visits to our cultural sites and exhibits, and excursions to nearby attractions.

Things to Do Includes:

Outdoor Activities
Schedule Of Events
Nearby Attractions
Ranger Programs
Special Events
Driving Skyline Drive

Places To Go

The first place you will see when you arrive at Shenandoah National Park is an Entrance Station. During most times of the year, you will be greeted by a Ranger who will take your entry fee and provide you with a map and other information about the park.

When you enter the park you will be on Skyline Drive and here the fun begins. Not only is this roadway an experience in itself, it is the route to all places of interest in Shenandoah. All along the Drive there are beautiful Overlooks, designed to give you spectacular views.

In addition to a few stops along the way at your favorite overlooks, plan a stop at the visitor centers, bookstores, and exhibits. There are also lodges, restaurants, and gift shops. Big Meadows is a great place to spend some time and you will see hiking trailheads all along the Drive.

Places to Go Includes:

Visitor Centers
Campgrounds
Lodge, Restaurants, Other Facilities
Exhibits
Wilderness
Picnic Grounds