Shenandoah National Park — Attraction in Shenandoah

We visited the park and did the entirety of Skyline Drive on a Sunday in early April.

It was a beautiful sunny day and a little chilly. We started the trip in the 30s outside. We drove it from South to North. We entered through Rockfish Gap around 8AM. There are signs to warn that gas is not currently available in the park so make sure you have enough. The gas world normally be located at big meadows. When we arrived at big meadows there was fencing around the gas area. Looks like they were renovating.

There were very few cars when we entered and drove for the first hour or so. The overlooks are everywhere on the left and right and were amazing.

We know the loft mountain area wasn't open yet but we pulled in anyways just to see. The store and offices were all blacked out so you couldn't even look inside. There were a few cars parked here in the parking lot but not many.

The next big stop was Lewis Mountain. We drove into the camp grounds area and the camp store is directly across from the cabins. They had a bathroom on the outside of the building. It was a nice little camp store. Have snacks and some merch as well. The bathroom was like a full bathroom with a shower and everything. There is a coin operated machine that lets you use the shower. I think it was like a couple bucks for 5 mins.

Next we stopped at Big Meadows and the Byrd Visitor Center. This was a fairly large visitor center with a ton of exhibits as well as hands-on ones. To the left when you walk in is the NPS store. The right is also a theater that plays a short film about the history of the park. Worth it to watch. The back has a large bank of windows and seats to look out across the "big meadow". The back left there is a small table which has the NPS Passport cancellation stamps. Unfortunately each location has their own stamp and they don't move the others when they are closed for the season. So you will have to visit the other sites along skyline drive when they open, including the mobile visitor center. Bathrooms were outside in separate building to the right.

Next stop was at Skyland for lunch. We knew they had dinning here and it was packed. For a table for 5 around 1PM they said 30-45 min wait. We opted for take out order which they also do. But we waited probably close to 30 mins for our order anyways. I don't know if the staff was prepared for that many people to show up on Easter Sunday. There is a very nice outside patio eating area with a great view just outside the restaurant building. It was a little chilly and windy but worth it for the view. Honestly the food was okay and we paid just under $100 for 2 adult meals, kids meal, soup and 2 appetizers. They also forgot one of our orders and didn't give us sauce for another. Good thing we didn't drive off to eat somewhere else. Best thing was the crispy chicken sandwich.

We skipped Elkwallow and I think Mathew's Arm wasn't open yet for the season.

We had our final stop at Dickey Ridge Visitor Center. The restrooms were pretty far separated from the Visitor Center. The visitor center itself was much small than Byrd Visitor Center. They had their own passport cancellation stamp on the left hand side if you're entering from the back where most people were coming from. There is a little table. There are also a few exhibits you can see on the left hand side of the building. On the other side is the NPS store. They had a good selection of all the similar things from the Byrd Visitor Center. Nothing stood out to us as different. Although the size of this visitor center is much smaller than the Byrd Visitor Center I want to say there were more people at this one.

We left the park around 3PM and it was much more packed. Not sure if that because we were at the North end or because of time of day.

We didn't get to do any hikes but we did stop many of the overlooks and take pictures. We would definitely visit again to try out the different trails. We just thought it would be a fun way to end our vacation by driving up through skyline drive versus...

My visit to Shenandoah National Park in April was an absolute delight, immersing me in the beauty of nature and offering an unforgettable retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Here's why I wholeheartedly give Shenandoah National Park a perfect 5-star rating:

Spectacular Natural Beauty: Shenandoah National Park is a true gem, boasting breathtaking vistas, cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and rolling meadows. The park's diverse landscapes, particularly during the springtime, are a feast for the eyes. The vibrant blooms of wildflowers, the vibrant shades of green, and the picturesque vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains create a scene straight out of a postcard. Scenic Drives and Hikes: Shenandoah National Park offers a network of scenic drives and hiking trails that cater to all levels of adventure seekers. The iconic Skyline Drive is a must-visit, winding through the park and offering mesmerizing views at every turn. The park's well-maintained hiking trails, ranging from leisurely walks to challenging treks, allow visitors to explore the park's natural wonders up close and personal. Wildlife Encounters: Shenandoah National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkeys, and numerous bird species. The park's abundant biodiversity offers ample opportunities to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Wildlife enthusiasts will relish the chance to observe and photograph these remarkable animals. Tranquil Serenity: Shenandoah National Park provides a tranquil retreat from the noise and stress of daily life. The peacefulness of the park, combined with the soothing sounds of nature, creates a serene environment that rejuvenates the mind and soul. Whether you're enjoying a picnic by a scenic overlook or finding solace in the quiet corners of the forest, the park's tranquility is unmatched. Photography Paradise: With its picturesque landscapes and ever-changing colors, Shenandoah National Park is a haven for photography enthusiasts. Every vista offers a stunning backdrop, inviting you to capture the beauty and essence of the park. From sunrise to sunset, each moment presents a unique opportunity to capture nature's wonders through the lens. Visitor Facilities and Interpretive Programs: Shenandoah National Park provides excellent visitor facilities, including well-maintained restrooms, picnic areas, and campgrounds. The park also offers a range of interpretive programs, such as ranger-led hikes and informative talks, that deepen visitors' understanding of the park's history, geology, and ecology. These programs enhance the overall experience and offer a deeper connection to the park's natural wonders. Visiting Shenandoah National Park in April was a remarkable experience that filled my heart with awe and gratitude for the wonders of nature. The park's beauty, tranquility, and abundant recreational opportunities make it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a rejuvenating escape. Whether you're driving along the scenic roads, embarking on an exhilarating hike, or simply basking in the peacefulness of the surroundings, Shenandoah National Park is a destination that will leave you with cherished memories and a renewed appreciation for the...

Spent the long weekend before Memorial Day with my family. Great time to go, as there were virtually no bugs and fewer tourists. There was a rattlesnake sighting on Frazier Discovery Trail, a couple days before we climbed the same trail… But we did not see any rattlesnakes.

The first night we stayed at a cabin at Lewis Mountain Campground in a cabin. 30$ person on low demand nights. Cabins were rustic wood with a potbelly stove, simple carpet on the floor broom, fire place utensils, covered mattresses, chairs, picnic tables, and bear proof food storage outside along with your own water pump. Amenities at Lewis Mountain campgrounds were Seasonal: laundry, potable, water, staff on site, firewood, for sale, ice for sale, camp store, food, storage lockers, trash, recycling collection. Even though the cabin was fairly clean, I woke up with puffy eyes the next morning, maybe due to allergens in the air. Nothing eye drops wouldn’t take care of.

The following night, we stayed at a tent in Lewis Campground. Nice clean bathrooms and coin operated showers with potable water and wash stations. That night it rained for about four hours, but it didn’t cramp our style.

We saw every pull off and most of the national park stores. Very nice park to go to

Lots of amenities, Restaurants, stores showers wash stations, RV, hook ups, etc.

Shenandoah National Park in Virginia is a haven for nature lovers, offering stunning Mountain Vistas, lush forest, and abundant wildlife. Wildlife include blackbear, lots of deer, (be careful while you’re driving), and smaller critters. The parks skyline Drive, a scenic, 105 mile route, provides breathtaking overlooks, and access to numerous hiking trails, including the challenging “Old Rag Mountain”. Even though we had permits to hike, old rag, we were unable to due to the flooding. With waterfalls, wildflowers, and a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1935, Shenandoah is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts , seeking adventure or tranquility. Whether camping, hiking, or simply enjoying the views, it’s a must visit destination for those exploring the Blue...