After Visiting Shenandoah National Park, These Are My Favorite Hikes

Shenandoah National Park is one of Virginia's most treasured places. Hugging the Blue Ridge Mountains, it encompasses over 20,000 acres of wooded hollows, mountaintops, open fields, and wild meadows. Teeming with wildlife, old-growth trees, history, and culture, it's one of our state's must-see places, even if you can only spare an afternoon.

Hikers are spoiled for choices in Shenandoah; there are over 500 miles of hiking trails, many of which are part of the iconic Appalachian Trail. If I had to choose a single hike as the best in the park, it would be one that highlights the park's top features: hardwood forests, panoramic mountain views, and a slightly intimidating rock scramble. For these reasons, Bearfence Mountain Trail stands out to me as one of the best hikes in Shenandoah National Park.

A few summers ago, my husband and I met two friends at the park to hike Bearfence Mountain Trail. Our hiking crew also included two toddlers in hiking backpacks, so we were admittedly intimidated by the trail's notorious rock scramble. Mostly, though, we were happy to be out on such a beautiful June day.

The Bearfence Mountain parking area is located at mile marker 56.4 on Skyline Drive. About a dozen parking spots are available, so you'll want to arrive as early as possible. The trailhead is located just across the road from the parking lot. Immediately, you'll begin a steep climb upwards. The trail is just over one mile round-trip.

Over the course of your climb, you'll gain about 250 feet, which is steep, but the real challenge comes towards the overlook. I'd never encountered a rock scramble as dramatic as this one, where it was necessary to balance on and navigate large boulders, some of which were right on the mountain's edge! This uneasy terrain definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone, but getting through it was all the more rewarding. If you have a strong fear of heights, this probably isn't the best trail for you. I was tempted to turn around at the last minute, but ultimately, I'm glad I made it to the top for the 360-degree view!

Once you've reached the top, take a moment to appreciate the stunning view of the Shenandoah Valley. On a clear day, it's absolutely stunning. Once you're ready to return, turn right on the connector trail which will take you along the Appalachian Trail heading north. At the next intersection, you'll take a left and will be back at the parking area.

For even more hiking inspiration, here are some of the best hiking trails in Shenandoah National Park:

• Blackrock Summit via Trayfoot Mountain and Appalachian Trail: This one-mile circuit hike is beginner-friendly but gives you that panoramic mountain view synonymous with the Appalachian Mountains. It's a family-friendly trail, too, and is one of the park's designated TRACK trails—informational signs along the way will turn the hike into a kid-friendly adventure.
• Hawksbill Summit Trail: Hawksbill is a 1.6-mile out-and-back trail that's considered moderately difficult. It offers hikers the chance to see the view from the tallest mountain in Shenandoah National Park. You'll certainly get a workout on your way up, but by all accounts, the view is well worth it.
• Mary's Rock Trail via Appalachian Trail: If you're looking for stunning views but don't care much for the rock scrambles, Mary's Rock Trail is a wonderful option. It's a 3.7-mile out-and-back trek that's considered hard due to the intense elevation gain. You'll want to bring water, sturdy hiking shoes, and some layers for sudden temperature changes.
• Limberlost Trail: This fully accessible trail made of crushed greenstone is a 1.4-mile loop that is beautiful, quiet, and enjoyable for all ages.
• Dark Hollow Falls Trail: One of the most popular waterfall hikes in Shenandoah National Park, the 1.6-mile Dark Hollow Falls Trail is deceptively difficult. The trail descends from the parking lot to the stunning waterfall, meaning your return trip to the parking lot is no easy feat.

What are some of your favorite places to hike in Shenandoah National Park? Feel free to share this article with a fellow hiking enthusiast and plan your next great outdoor adventure! If you need a place to stay, this Airbnb near Shenandoah National Park is positively stunning.

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