Things to Do in Shenandoah National Park
23 curated spots from Shenandoah National Park itineraries
Activities & Attractions
11 curated experiences
Big Meadows and Byrd Visitor Center
Stroll the open meadow, watch for deer, and explore exhibits on park history, including displaced communities and development of Skyline Drive.
1h 30m · Free
Dark Hollow Falls Trail
Steep but short hike from Big Meadows area down to a picturesque, shaded waterfall; remember the climb back up.
2h · Free
Dickey Ridge Visitor Center and Fox Hollow Trail
Start at the visitor center for maps and exhibits, then walk the easy Fox Hollow loop through old homestead sites and stone walls.
2h · Free (park entrance required)
Drive Skyline Drive into the Southern District
Leisurely drive with stops at overlooks like Bacon Hollow or Loft Mountain to appreciate the quieter, less-visited part of the park.
2h · Free
Lewis Falls Trail
Moderate loop or out-and-back from Big Meadows down to a tall, slender waterfall with a rocky viewpoint.
2h 30m · Free
Old Rag Mountain Circuit Hike
Full-day, strenuous loop with significant rock scrambling, steep sections, and spectacular 360° summit views; requires advance day-use ticket and at least 2 liters of water.
5h · $1-5 reservation fee plus park entrance
Optional Short Walk on the Appalachian Trail (near Rockfish Gap)
Walk a short out-and-back section of the AT near the southern entrance to reflect on the 101 miles of trail through Shenandoah.
45m · Free
Range View Overlook
Pull-off overlook with layered ridge views that are especially photogenic in late morning and at sunset.
20m · Free
Rapidan Camp (Hoover’s Presidential Retreat) Hike
Hike from Milam Gap down to the historic Rapidan Camp, where interpretive signs and sometimes ranger programs explain its presidential history.
3h 30m · Free
South River Falls Trail
Moderate hike from South River picnic area to an overlook of South River Falls, with an option to extend to the base.
3h · Free
Stony Man Summit Hike
Short, moderate hike through forest leading to a rocky summit with wide views over the Shenandoah Valley.
1h 30m · FreeRestaurants & Food
12 local favorites
Skyland Pollock Dining Room
Return to the main dining room for a hearty post–Old Rag meal; consider a steak, pasta, or comfort dish.
1h 30m · $25-40 per person
Big Meadows Lodge Breakfast
Sit-down breakfast with meadow views to start a somewhat lighter hiking day.
1h · $15-25 per person
Big Meadows Lodge Spottswood Dining Room
Full-service dining room with regional dishes and views across the meadow; try the trout or a local-inspired entree.
1h 30m · $25-40 per person
Big Meadows Taproom
Casual bar-style setting with lighter fare and drinks inside Big Meadows Lodge.
1h 15m · $20-30 per person
Big Meadows Wayside
Casual counter spot at Big Meadows with burgers, sandwiches, and ice cream, plus a small camp store.
45m · $15-20 per person
Lewis Mountain Campstore Breakfast (simple or self-catered)
Grab basic items or eat in your cabin before heading south along Skyline Drive.
30m · $8-15 per person
Loft Mountain Camp-Style Breakfast
Simple breakfast at camp or from the nearby camp store before a final summit and slow exit day.
30m · $8-12 per person
Loft Mountain Wayside
Seasonal wayside with simple grilled items and snacks right along Skyline Drive.
45m · $15-20 per person
Picnic Lunch at Old Rag Saddle
Pack sandwiches, snacks, and plenty of water to eat on the trail at a safe, flat spot away from cliff edges.
30m · $10-15 per person (groceries)
Skyland Grab-n-Go or Pollock Dining Room
Quick breakfast or sit-down option before hitting nearby summit trails.
45m · $10-20 per person
Skyland Mountain Taproom
Casual lodge bar and grill attached to Skyland with regional beers and simple pub fare.
1h 15m · $20-35 per person
South River Picnic Area Packed Lunch
Use the picnic area near the trailhead for a simple lunch before continuing south.
45m · $8-15 per personMore on Shenandoah National Park
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