Shenandoah Activities

Hiking

Shenandoah National Park has over 500 miles of trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Many trails are accessed from Skyline Drive. Some short trails lead to a waterfall or viewpoint; longer and more difficult trails penetrate deep into the forest and wilderness.
Limberlost Trail (milepost 43), is ADA accessible, with a crushed green walkway on a gentle grade. This circuit hike of 1.3 miles is for people of all ages. The trail passes through forest and a stand of mountain laurel - stunningly beautiful when it blooms in June. The forest is ever-changing! Once tall hemlocks and oaks shaded this trail, but most have been killed by insect invaders: the wooly adelgid and the gypsy moth. Recent storms have felled many of the dead trees. Today, notice what lives, including birches, maples, white pines. Look for wildflowers, from the bluets and violets of April to the yarrow, yellow hawkweed, and wild columbine of summer; discover ferns and mushrooms; listen for birds. And contemplate the resilience of nature.

Horseback Riding
There are more than 150 miles of horse trails in the park. Visitors may bring their own horses, or sign up for a guided trail ride from the Skyland Stables (May through October).

Fishing

The mountain streams of Shenandoah National Park are inhabited by a variety of species of fishes and these pristine waters provide some of the best protected strongholds for native eastern brook trout. Recreational fishing regulations have changed significantly in order to ensure effective protection and management of fisheries resources in the park. These recent changes eliminate many of the differences that have existed between Virginia fish regulations and park regulations.
In order to provide protection for gamefish populations and enhance angling opportunities, Park Rangers strictly enforce regulations. If you see someone violating the regulations, please tell a ranger or call (800) 732-0911. Thank you and happy fishing!

Biking

Bicycling is permitted along Skyline Drive and on paved areas in the park. Bicycling (road and mountain bikes) is not permitted on trails, unpaved roads or in grassy areas. Because Skyline Drive is a two-lane road with steep hills and numerous blind curves, bicyclers are urged to use extreme caution.



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