There is no shortage of fun summer activities to do in Shenandoah National Park. You can hit one of the Park’s 500-plus miles of hiking trails. Have a picnic at one of seven picnic grounds. Spend the night in Skyland or historic Big Meadows Lodge, or rough it just a bit more in one of the Lewis Mountain Cabins. Camp at any of Shenandoah’s four campgrounds, or camp primitive style in the Park’s backcountry. (Be sure and get a free backcountry camping permit before you head out.) Go on a ranger-led walk or to a ranger program, or check out the National Park Service’s special events. Or simply motor along the 105-mile-long Skyline Drive, stopping at your favorite overlooks and taking in views of the Shenandoah Valley to the west and the Virginia Piedmont to the east.
But did you know that Shenandoah’s authorized concession provider, Delaware North at Shenandoah, has also created a wealth of activities, events, and special services for you to enjoy during your visit to these beautiful mountains?
Astronomy Events
One of the most popular traditions in Shenandoah is stargazing, held at the big meadows area from May through October. The crisp, clear Blue Ridge Mountains air in Shenandoah National Park makes everything brighter in the night sky. Stars sparkle with more intensity, and constellations come into clearer view. Delaware North, the park’s concessioner, offers a variety of astronomy events.
Rock Climbing/Rappelling
Shenandoah National Park rock climbing attracts rockhounds from far and wide who recognize the park offers some of the finest climbing in the eastern U.S. While this adventure might seem intimidating, rock climbing and rappelling is suited for all skill levels and combines teaching and climbing into an exciting half-day adventure. Set at the Little Stony Man cliffs, you’ll set off from Skyland with Shenandoah Mountain Guides and learn about climbing, rappelling and the fascinating history of these cliffs on your way to your climbing spot. This is a one-of-a-kind adventure inside Shenandoah National Park and it’s guaranteed to be an activity you never forget.
There are so many more happenings for you to experience in Shenandoah National Park, including:
- Skyland tap takeover events
- Skyland Whisky-Wine Shuttle
- shopping
- hiking and basic survival skills seminars
- horseback riding
- live entertainment on selected evenings at both lodges’ taprooms, including the crowd favorite, clogging!
- author presentations and nature talks
- white oak basket making
In Shenandoah National Park, we’ve got so many possibilities for adventure and exploration in store for you. But don’t feel guilty if you decide to just sit on a ridge or the balcony of your lodge room and do nothing at all. We’ve got that, too.
Written by Patressa Kearns