5 Epic Hikes You Cannot Miss at Shenandoah National Park

Mountains that take your breath away

Shenandoah National Park is a stunning natural wonder that attracts visitors from all over the world. This magnificent park offers something for everyone and sees more than 1.5 million visitors every year.

Established in 1935, Shenandoah National Park showcases Virginia’'s variety of beautiful landscapes. From the Shenandoah River that runs through the park to the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, there is no shortage of natural beauty here.

The park is well known for its gorgeous landscape, especially in the fall. Visitors take in the foliage on the 105-mile Skyline Drive. The drive runs the entire length of the park along the ridge of the mountains and is extremely popular during the fall season, as many city dwellers come to witness the vibrant changing of leaves.

The Appalachian Trail also runs through Shenandoah National Park. Hundreds of miles of hiking trails offer some of the most secluded and picturesque treks in the entire country.

If you want to explore the trails of Shenandoah, here are five hikes you cannot miss. Remember that if you visit any of these hiking trails, Shenandoah National Park charges a fee to enter the park.

Rose River Trail

If waterfalls are your thing, the Rose River Trail is a must-do hike for all those photo opportunities.

Hikers can leave the trail path to explore the various waterfall locations that are abundant on this trail. 

Many varieties of wildlife call the park home and love to cool off in the refreshing pools and waterfalls, so keep your eyes open for some possible bobcats and bears during your hike.

Total Distance: 3.79 miles

Elevation Gain: 875 feet

Difficulty: Moderate - Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

• Dogs must be leashed on this trail.
• Bears are commonly seen on this trail.
• This trail can get fairly waterlogged during the rainy season.
• Some areas can be slippery when wet so ensure you bring proper hiking footwear.

Hawksbill Loop

If you want to get that heart pumping and feel those legs burn, Hawksbill Loop is the perfect hike for you.

Leading to Shenandoah National Park’s highest peak, the trail takes you through a very thick tree line, so don’t expect any stunning views until you reach the top. 

This steady uphill climb is more doable if you pace yourself. But it’s certainly worth the work. Once you reach the peak, your reward is a gorgeous 360-degree view of the entire Shenandoah Valley, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the Virginia Piedmont.

Total Distance: 2.67 miles

Elevation Gain: 875 feet

Difficulty: Moderate - Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

• Dogs can be off leash in certain areas on this trail.
• This is a very popular trail, and the parking lot fills up very quickly.
• During the winter months, this trail can become very icy.
• Most reviews for this trail suggest completing it counterclockwise because of the easier incline. 

Dark Hollow Falls Trail

Along Skyline Drive, you might see the Dark Hollow Falls parking lot packed with cars. That’s because this 1.4-mile round trip hike is well known for its stunning large waterfall that cascades down into a small pool below.

The hike itself isn’t too difficult, but expect a more difficult trek back up. If you decide to go at sunrise or sunset, the lighting will make for a beautiful photo-op of the waterfall.

Total Distance: 1.42 miles

Elevation Gain: 564 feet

Difficulty: Moderate - Hiking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

• No dogs allowed on this trail.
• This trail is very popular and can become crowded quite quickly on weekends.
• Because of the quick incline, this trail can become tough on your knees, especially on the way back.
• The trail can become quite muddy around the falls, especially during the colder seasons.

White Oak Canyon and Cedar Run Trail Loop

This is the first of two difficult hikes on our list. While the lengthy distance can seem daunting even  for experienced hikers, the diversity in the landscape and the gorgeous waterfalls are well worth the effort.

Expect to get your feet wet as there are small rivers and creeks you’ll have to cross, especially during the warmer months when water levels may be higher. 

The trail includes a shared horseback-riding trail, so be on the lookout.

Total Distance: 9.0 miles

Elevation Gain: 2,372 feet

Difficulty: Hard - Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

• Dogs must be leashed on this trail.
• This trail should only be attempted by those with a high physical fitness level or experience in back-country hiking.
• Some parts of this trail are unmarked or difficult to follow. Be sure to bring a map.
• This trail is very rocky so ensure you have proper hiking footwear.

Old Rag Mountain Loop

If you’re heading to Shenandoah National Park looking for a challenge, Old Rag is the hike for you.

Described as “brutally awesome,” this 9-mile hike is not for the faint of heart. The trek includes rock scrambling in certain areas and can be quite physically demanding, but the 360-degree view you get at the peak is worth every step.

Be sure to head out early as this trail can become quite a long hike. Keep that in mind as you take breaks or stop to enjoy the view at the peak.

Total Distance: 9.38 miles

Elevation Gain: 2,582 feet

Difficulty: Hard - Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

• This trail should only be attempted by those with a high physical fitness level or experience in back-country hiking.
• No dogs allowed on this trail. 
• If you are attempting this hike between March 1 and November 30, Shenandoah National Park requires you to buy an Old Rag day- use ticket.
• This trail is very rocky so ensure you have proper hiking footwear.
• Bring lots of water on this hike.
• This trail requires some rock jumping and bouldering.

Choose one or try them all. At Shenandoah National Park, you can’t lose.

Each hike offers something unique, from stunning waterfalls to rewarding peak views. Enjoy the unique beauty that Shenandoah National Park has to offer, and happy hiking!