Shenandoah National Park Points of Interest

Fall Entrance Recommendations

The two most northern entrances, Front Royal and Thornton Gap, are the busiest and have the longest lines. To help with wait times, special lanes will be available at entrance stations for those who pre-purchased their entrance pass online. It's best to visit during a weekday and to arrive early to beat the crowds! We also recommend a nice circuit trip south through the valley on Route 29 to the east or on Route 340 to the west of the Park. Enter at Swift Run Gap (east of Elkton on Route 33) or Rockfish Gap (near Waynesboro on Route 64) entrance stations and return home on Skyline Drive.

When you enter Shenandoah National Park, you will be on Skyline Drive, the National Scenic Byway route to many points of interest in Shenandoah. Whether you're looking for spectacular views, wildlife sightings or trailheads to embark on a hiking adventure, this winding road leads to endless fascinating places within the national park.

A couple dining at Skyland Resort

Skyline Drive and Beyond

Start your adventure in Shenandoah at one of the National Park Service Visitor Centers located throughout Shenandoah. Here, you can gain a wealth of knowledge about the park's points of interest and history. Plan your hiking routes, pick up a schedule of ranger programs, or learn the history of this storied place; this is a great introduction to the park and its varied activities from adventurous waterfall hikes to stargazing and night sky programs.

From securing backcountry permits to igniting the spirit of adventure in young explorers with fun and educational Junior Ranger programs, Shenandoah's visitor centers serve as invaluable hubs of information and resources.

The charm of Shenandoah is more than its scenic overlooks and trailheads. Dive deeper into the enchanting landscape by visiting our park lodges, where rustic charm meets modern comfort. Savor a moment of tranquility in a rocking chair at Big Meadows Lodge with a Starbucks coffee, enjoy dinner and a sunset at Skyland's Pollack Dining Room with delectable cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients, or discover treasures to cherish forever at our thoughtfully curated and newly renovated gift shops.

Each corner of Shenandoah beckons with its own unique array of experiences, promising unforgettable memories and moments of pure happiness. Embrace the journey and let the magic of Shenandoah weave its spell around you.

A line of rocking chairs at Big Meadows Lodge

Park Visitor Guide

Pick up the park's official visitor guide for seasonal park information. Get your free copy at any entrance station, visitor center, park campground or our Delaware North concession facilities. Information on points of park interest, fact sheets and maps are also available here.

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