BEST THINGS TO DO IN SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK

Shenandoah National Park is long and skinny, following the Blue Ridge Mountains through Virginia and covering over 200,000 acres full of waterfalls, wildlife, and spectacular vistas. We’d recommend spending at least a full day exploring the park, but two would be ideal. We’ve put together this guide of the best things to do in Shenandoah National Park to help you get the most out of your trip.

Skyline Drive

  • Length: 105.5 miles
  • Distance from us: 7.1 miles


One of Shenandoah National Park’s most popular and famous features is Skyline Drive. This road stretches the entire 105 mile length of the park along the tops of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering some of the best views in the park. Most of the hikes in Shenandoah start from trailheads along Skyline Drive. Be sure to keep both eyes on the road, as you’re sharing the views with cyclists and occasional wildlife.

Old Rag Mountain Loop

  • Length: 9.3 miles
  • Elevation gain: 2,595 feet
  • Distance from us: 58.7 miles


Despite being a challenging route, Old Rag Mountain Loop is among Shenandoah’s most popular. With miles of ascending switchbacks, boulder fields to scramble through, and several false summits, you have to work for the 360 degree views at the top.

White Oak Canyon Trail

  • Length: 9.4 miles
  • Elevation gain:  2,411 feet 
  • Distance from us: 60.7 miles


This out-and-back trail is known for having some of the best waterfalls in the Shenandoah Valley. This challenging route is a very popular destination for campers, backpackers, and hikers alike, so you’ll definitely have company on this trail. If you’re planning on hiking during the summer, make sure you bring swim wear as there are a few swimming holes at the base of the lower falls.

Dark Hollow Falls Trail

  • Length: 1.6 miles
  • Elevation gain: 583 feet 
  • Distance from us: 52.6 miles


Dark Hollow Falls sits almost in the middle of Shenandoah National Park and is accessible off Skyline Drive. The walk down to the falls is a little over half a mile and is generally considered easy, although the trek back up to the parking lot is moderately steep. Legend has it that Thomas Jefferson used to spend time in quiet contemplation at the base of these falls.

Hawksbill Summit Trail

  • Length: 1.6 miles
  • Elevation gain: 672 feet 
  • Distance from us: 57.5 miles 


Hawksbill Mountain is the tallest mountain in Shenandoah National Park. The Hawksbill Summit Trail begins from Skyline Drive and it gets steep fast. The majority of the hike is nestled among the forest, providing plenty of shade. Being the highest point in the park, this trail is very popular around sunset and sunrise, but offers spectacular views no matter what time of day you go.

Camping near Shenandoah National Park

Here at Misty Mountain Camp Resort, we’ve got campsites, full RV hookups, and cabins spread out over 50 acres. Our grounds are full of wide open spaces and comfortable groves of trees, giving your family plenty of room to relax and play. Take advantage of our playgrounds, fully stocked fishing pond, and our pool  after a long day exploring Shenandoah. No matter what your plans are, our staff is dedicated to helping you create an unforgettable experience you’ll cherish for years to come. Book your stay with us today and discover your new favorite place to camp near Shenandoah National Park.