Overview
Shenandoah National Park is a breathtaking national park in Virginia, known for its scenic Skyline Drive and stunning Blue Ridge Mountain views. It offers numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
The park is significant for its role in preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers a serene escape from urban life.
Location
Address
Virginia
Neighborhood: Shenandoah Valley
Coordinates
38.665000, -78.455000
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
October-November, April-May
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • wildflowers
- • waterfalls
summer
hot
- • skyline drive
- • water activities
autumn
cool to mild
- • fall foliage
- • wildlife viewing
winter
cold
- • snowy landscapes
- • wildlife tracking
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check road conditions
- Bring bear spray
- Reserve accommodations early
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate to high
- • altitude sickness
- • tick-borne illnesses
Medical facilities: first aid available at visitor centers
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, weather-appropriate, comfortable hiking shoes, sturdy hiking shoes, inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • 3 months
- • official website
- • 72 hours
- • available for lodges
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Shenandoah National Park Official App
Size: 75 MB
Features: Trail maps, Audio guide, Park alerts
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor centers, Lodges
Charging Stations: Visitor centers
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Washington Dulles International Airport
Distance: 100 km
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
From City Center
Distance: 50 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Stunning natural beauty, peaceful environment
Historical Significance: Home to the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression
Insider Tips
- Best views at Hawksbill Lookout
- Local cider at nearby wineries
Local Recommendations
- • Try local cider
- • Ask rangers for trail tips
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Skyline Drive
Best Time: Sunrise
Tips: Wide angle for landscapes
Result: Breathtaking mountain views
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Luray Caverns
Distance: 15km
Walking: 30 min
Type: Caverns
Monticello
Distance: 50km
Walking: not walkable
Type: Historical Site
Reviews
Based on 2,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Hike to Dark Hollow Falls"
- "Visit at sunrise"
- "Stay in the park lodges"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
Barossa Valley Cellar Door Small Group Tour
George Washington's Mount Vernon & Old Alexandria Half-Day Guided Tour from DC
Private Tour - Colonial Life & Revolutionary Role of Williamsburg
Private Washington DC Tour with Changing of the Guard Ceremony
Explore Mt. Rainier National Park with a Local Guide
Small-group Mt. St. Helen National Park Tour from Seattle in SUV
Private Mt Rainier National Park Tour in SUV
4-day Islay Platinum Whisky Tour - Whisky Included! With free pickup!
Mount Vernon & Old Alexandria with Night-Time Sightseeing Tour of Washington DC
Private Tour of Yorktown Museum, Battlefields & Historic Area
Small Group Best Deal: Panoramic Santiago city tour experience plus Viña del mar - Valparaiso - Casablanca in Two Days from Santiago
Private Full-Day Tour to Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius with Winery Visit
TULIP Festival @ Skagit Valley, La Conner & Deception Pass in SUV
3-4 Hour Private DC Highlight Tour by Van
Private Tour of Washington, DC by Van to Honor Our Heroes
Red Rocks & Beyond - Private Tour
Tulip Festival at Skagit Valley ,La Conner and Deception Pass
Day trip from Rome to Pompei Mt Vesuvius & Local Guide included
Private Black History Tour Washington DC for up to 10 Guests
2-Hour Private Sightseeing Cart Tour of Houston and Galveston
Private tour to Pompeii Herculaneum and Vesuvius
Private 3 Hour Highlights Tour Washington DC for up to 10 Guests
3-Day Private Tour of the Highlands of Scotland from Glasgow
Full-Day Sightseeing Tour of Oban from Glasgow
Quick Info
Available Tours
3
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
2,000
Adult Entry
$30