Have you been longing for great views while on your Sunday Drive? Check this one out.
Welcome to Shenandoah National Park, a lovely stretch of Appalachia in the heart of Virginia. For those familiar with the song about Shenandoah, that refers to the name of an Indian Chief and the Missouri River, and has nothing to do with this area despite its use as an interim state song. First established in late 1935 and dedicated in July of 1936, this long yet relatively narrow stretch of land meanders its way in the hills to the east of the Shenandoah River. Communities are scattered mostly to the west of the park along the river itself, while found along the east side is a vastness of nature.
If you're a visitor to Shenandoah National Park, you'll almost certainly want to take a trip along Skyline Drive. This is the main highway of over 100 miles that runs through the park. Do make sure to bring some electrolyte fluids with you, as there will be quite a few elevation changes along the way. Skyline Drive tops out at 3,680 feet in elevation near the Skyland lodge and restaurant; quite the change from the northern entrance at around 700 feet. Dozens of overlooks adorn this route and occur every mile or so on average, along with several hiking opportunities along its many trails, including the country's famous Appalachian Trail which runs through the park along the majority of the highway.
If you bought that National Parks pass, you'll be using it to access Shenandoah. If you're looking to do the entire route, the entrance and exit points are from the north at Front Royal near Interstate 66, and from the south in Waynesboro at Interstate 64. The southern end also serves as the northern terminus for the Blue Ridge Parkway, which continues the views without additional cost to those who enter. There are also a few entry points if you don't want to do the entire highway, using US Route 211 near Luray and the park's headquarters, as well as US Route 33 near Elkton. One tunnel at around a 12 foot height is near US 211, so you may need to plan ahead if camping with your RV.
So should your Internal Compass tell you to take a nice drive through nature, consider Shenandoah National Park for your next adventure.
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