Shenandoah National Park

"Almost heaven, West Virginia
Blue Ridge Mountains
Shenandoah river -
Life is old there
Older than the trees
Younger than the mountains
Growin like a breeze…"


John Denver's famous country song captures the essence of the Shenandoah national park. The lyrics transport you to an idyllic landscape where fresh air blows gently, rolling hills meet green meadows and clear streams gurgle through spectacular mountains. The word ‘Shenandoah' is itself a fairytale concoction and means ‘Daughter of the Stars', a fitting tribute to the beautiful state of Virginia.

The Shenandoah National Park is only 75 miles from the nation's capital, though you'd find that hard to believe once you're in the secluded, woody valley. 300 square miles of classic American panorama crests the Blue Ridge Mountains and the valley below is quite easily one of Virginia's most beautiful pieces of landscape.

The Shenandoah is an exception among the national parks of America. This one was not created to preserve wilderness or wildlife. Instead, it was created as a live laboratory to observe how nature reclaims the land it has lost if given a chance. Much of the area's wild forests were destroyed before the Park was formed. Today however, the forest has reclaimed more than 95% of the land it lost.

The Shenandoah is famous for all the action it provides. With its rich collection of streams, waterfalls, creeks, hollows, valleys and stunning scenery, it attracts people from all over the world. The Skyline Drive Road is where the bulk of visitors congregate. However, for hardy folks with a mind to strike out on their own, there are 500+ hiking trails to choose from, including the famous Appalachian Trail. Smaller trails may lead to a spectacular viewpoint or gushing waterfall, while longer and more complex trails penetrate the heart of the wilderness.

Recreational fishing is allowed in the pristine waters of the mountain streams. Guided trail rides on horseback are allowed in the fall. Approximately 180 miles of trails are open to horses and the terrain ranges from smooth and easy to steep, narrow, mountain trails that challenge both the horse and its rider. Biking is another favorite activity with bikers being allowed along the paved paths on Skyline Drive. However, biking is not allowed on grassy areas.

For nature lovers, the Shenandoah holds a never-before seen world of rich flora and fauna. Thousands of living creatures have made their homes in these fertile mountain valleys. The mix of habitats caused by varying degrees of elevation, latitude, precipitation and soils is simply amazing.

The Shenandoah Park is perfect for backcountry camping. It has about 196,000 acres of wilderness that is just begging to be explored. So, carry everything you need on your back and explore rocky peaks, cool streams, dark rock hollows and discover a world that you've never seen before.

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