The wild and less seen side of Shenandoah awaits those who leave
Skyline Drive behind, and take to their feet. The rewards increase
Some treasures to discover
beyond Washington’s borders
SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK
with every footfall beneath the stately oaks to rocky vista points and
into deep canyons where waterfalls roar among old-growth trees
spared by the logger’s axe. In other places, your footsteps lead past
what once were hardscrabble farms — Shenandoah’s pioneer past.
Discover both the human and natural history of Shenandoah. A foray
into the backcountry complements your views from Skyline Drive.
HIKING THE SHENANDOAH
> 2.5 MILES
BLACKROCK LOOP
With panoramic views including overlooks on stunning Skyline
Drive — which runs 105 miles down the length of the 300-square-mile
sanctuary — Shenandoah National Park is a wonder to behold. Far-
flung views of the Blue Ridge, and surrounding Shenandoah Valley,
create the unforgettable Shenandoah experience.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
• Shenandoah National Park has an entrance fee, payable at one
of the four major entrance stations. The fee is good for seven
consecutive days, even if you leave the park.
• The weather tends to be up to ten degrees cooler than the
surrounding lowlands, a good thing in summer.
• Although supplies are limited in the park, fuel is available 24/7 at
Big Meadows Wayside.
• Skyline Drive closes during bad weather. If you have weather
concerns, call (540) 999-3500 to see if Skyline Drive is open.
• The Park has three districts, each with its own characteristics —
North, Central, and South. Explore each district. Try new places and
discover new wonders of Virginia’s biggest and oldest national park.
• Stop by any Virginia Welcome Center to pick up a park guide
with a convenient pull out map of Shenandoah National Park.
FLYWASHINGTON.COM 62 AUTUMN 2018
MILEPOST 84.8
1.1 MILES
Loop around Blackrock using the Appalachian Trail to reach an
incredible rock jumble with views extending for miles. Ambitious
visitors will scramble among the boulders.
2.5 TO 8 MILES
BIG DEVILS STAIRS VISTA
5.0 MILES
Start by passing a shelter used by long-distance hikers on the
Appalachian Trail. Join the nearly level Bluff Trail to the Big Devils
Stairs canyon rim for a great view, minus crowds.
> 8 MILES
OLD RAG LOOP (STARTS ON EAST SIDE OF PARK)
9.1 MILES
This well-loved Shenandoah classic is for advanced hikers. Ascend
the north slope of Old Rag, emerging onto a massive granite slab,
revealing energizing panoramas. Navigate a boulder maze, with some
bona fide rock scrambling to reach the summit with more views.
Return to the base of the mountain via Brokenback Run.