With each passing season, Shenandoah National Park has something new to offer. Blanketed in snow or basking in crisp sunlight, this Park always offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Only 20 minutes from Cabin Creekwood, this mountaintop hideaway has more than just scenic views to offer. Shenandoah wouldn’t be complete without the historic attractions, hiking trails, and restaurants that put her on the map.
There are five types of people that shouldn’t miss out on this incredible adventure, could you be one these individuals?
1. Family Fun
What family doesn’t love a little adventure? Part of the allure to Shenandoah is that the entire layout makes the day play out like an exploration! Visitors enter the park through Skyline Drive, the same road that winds the entire length of the park. The further you drive up the mountain, the more fun stops there are to enjoy. Stop at them all, or take your pick from the selection of historical buildings, mini-museums, shops, restaurants and some of the most breathtaking overlooks.
2. Romance Anyone?
Perhaps you’re looking for a romantic adventure, but worry that such a family-oriented attraction could kill the mood. Think again, with so much land this park always has private spaces to uncover- allowing you and your loved one the serenity you once thought restricted to dreams.
3. Hikers of all Levels
Hidden from Skyline Drive’s auto-accessible road, are hiking trails that boast some of the best camera shots. Only accessible on foot, hiking these trails can be scary and dangerous. Even for seasoned pros, the wilderness can get daunting—especially when visiting foreign territory. When the sun goes down and civil society still isn’t found, panic sets in for anyone.
Shenandoah National Park works hard to make hiking a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Gain insider knowledge and roam trails safety with one of the Park Rangers available for private tours. With over 500 miles of hiking trails, there’s something for everyone, but without a guide, you just might miss some of the park’s best-kept secrets. For example, “Most of the Shenandoah National Park’s 200 bird species are heard rather than seen, due to the dense canopy of leaves.” (nps.gov)
4. Technology lovers: Meet Earthcache!
If you happen to be crazy for technology, Shenandoah offers guests an eye-opening experience with modern science. Earthcache is a portable, handheld, GPS device that scans the earth for clues to the past. The gadgets’ small screen reads information about the history and content of the ground you are standing upon. Not only is earthcache great for technology lovers, these gadgets keep hyper kids distracted and add a lot of knowledge to any hike. Available at few other locations, take advantage of this awesome technology.
5. History Junkies
Learn about the culture, history, and science of this historic location.
Shenandoah National Park is not only a beautiful and scenic exploration, it’s also packing vast amounts of history. Humans first inhabited this land about 8,500 years ago. True to Virginia’s presidential theme, a stop on the way up the mountain called Rapidan Camp, was once a summer retreat for President Herbert and First Lady Lou Henry Hoover.
Due to the diverse seasons of Virginia, plan accordingly when packing for your visit. Come summer, winter, spring, or fall and feel like you are visiting a new haven every single time. Best of all, 80% of your fees at Shenandoah go right back into the preservation of the park.
On September 24 enjoy no entry fee in celebration of Public Lands Day!
See more free days and plan your next visit here: http://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/index.htm
Photos used on this page are by westher.