How I’d Redo my Trip to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia

My desire for adventure far outweighs the daylight hours I have been given. So naturally when I visit a place as big as Shenandoah National Park, I just don’t get a chance to see every single thing I would like to see. So if I was going to redo my trip, or plan another visit, there are a few places I would love to see. With 105 miles from south to north, there are plenty of trails and places I still have yet to explore. So when it comes to hiking in Shenandoah National Park, here are some of the must-see spots next time I venture into the park. 

I loved my time in Shenandoah the first time I visited. We drove the Skyline Drive, the major road that spans the entirety of the park, and enjoyed a lot of great overlooks. The tunnels were a huge hit for my family and we couldn’t help by stare in awe at the vast views of the mountains and lush green farmlands nearby. One thing I would do differently is finish the rest of the road. We didn’t have enough time to see the northern part of the road and I would say I completed all 105 miles of the Skyline Drive. 

One hike I would like to revisit before I see something new is to Blackrock Summit. This was my favorite hike in my time in the park with some of the most outstanding views. We did however backtrack the way we hiked to the summit because of a giant snake blocking the trail so we could not finish the loop. I offered to get rid of the snake but my family was already turning around with my wife begging me to not go near the slithering monster…I followed my family instead of risking it. 

Two hikes were on my list but we didn’t have enough time to tackle them when we visited and I would love to see them both on this revisit. The first one is the Hawksbill Loop Trail. Similar to Blackrock Summit the views on this hike are incredible. I love when you get to see the rolling mountains of the park from high up and I have a feeling this loop trail wouldn’t disappoint. 

The second hike that was on my list was Stony Man. Being located close to Hakwsbill you will have similar views but what I love is the jagged rocky summit. This just seems like a classic Shenandoah hike to me in every way. It would be a bonus for me if I timed it right and could see the sunset to end the day.

Old Rag Mountain may be one of the most difficult hikes in the park but it is also considered one of the best. This nearly 10-mile trail will gain over 2600 feet along the way to really get your heart pumping. With balance rocks, tunnels, scrambling, and steep inclines this hike is a full adventure. I love trails like this because it feels like you get to truly experience the wilderness of the national park and one I would have to do when I go back to Shenandoah. 

An essential part of traveling within Shenandoah National Park, or any other park, is a good map. AllTrails is my go-to tool I bring it with me for every hike and it helps me to keep track and not accidentally end up on the Appalachian Trail or something crazy like that. Next time I go to the park I will make sure I include these awesome hikes.