Shenandoah National Park - map, photos and other informations

Situated in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, the Shenandoah National Park is a conservation area where travelers come to experience nature in a whole new way. Stretching south for 200,000 acres, this park began as a grassy meadow in the 1930s, offering an outdoor getaway for its guests.

The Shenandoah National Park was established in 1935, during the Great Depression. At the time, President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “New Deal” created the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), which provided jobs and recreation for people during that difficult time. Men of the CCC cleared the dense forests and built trails, fire-lookout towers, and campgrounds in the park.

The park spans the length of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. At its widest point, it measures 70 miles across. The Park is divided into four primary districts: North District, Central District, South District and Luray. When exploring the park, you’ll encounter numerous activities ranging from scenic drives to camping and even horseback riding.

The Skyline Drive runs the entire length of the park, offering countless views of the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains. This 105-mile roadway is a must-do experience, boasting 25 overlooks, 75 pull-offs, and six river crossings. For a more rugged adventure, the Appalachian Trail winds through the northern half of the Park from Front Royal to Rockfish Gap. Hiking this route is one of the most popular attractions in Shenandoah.

In addition to experiencing the scenic views, visitors can also observe diverse flora and fauna. The Park is home to animals such as black bears, deer, coyotes, and birds like wild turkeys, woodpeckers, and owls. Other plant life includes black gum and yellow poplar trees, wall-rue ferns, and various wildflowers.

The Shenandoah National Park is a unique outdoor experience showcasing nature in its raw and pristine form. Whether you’re simply driving the Skyline Drive taking in the breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains or immersing yourself in the Park’s outdoor activities, the Shenandoah National Park is sure to leave you wanting more.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Shenandoah National Park