| Shenandoah National Park sits on a magnificent | | | | trails, including 105 miles along the famous |
| stretch of the Blue Ridge that forms part of the | | | | Appalachian Trail. These trails lead to open |
| Appalachian Mountains on the east coast. In the | | | | meadows, waterfalls, and amazing vistas of the |
| late 1700's, people began settling into parts of | | | | valleys below. Along with back country camping, |
| these mountains and hills. Trees were cleared so | | | | the park also features four public campground |
| that the land could be farmed and houses could | | | | with about 600 campsites. These sites fill up fast |
| be built. As a result of this early settlement, time | | | | in the spring, summer, and fall so make your |
| had to pass to allow the park to re-grow before | | | | reservations early. Some campsite reservations |
| it could be granted National Park status in 1936. | | | | are on a first come, first served basis so that is |
| Through natural processes, the forest was | | | | an option if you arrive early enough. If you just |
| restored and so did the plant and wildlife | | | | have one day, there are many places to stop and |
| populations. Currently, about two hundred species | | | | have a picnic with the family. |
| of birds and fifty species of mammals call the | | | | The park attracts over 2 million annual visitors and |
| park home. Prior to being designated a National | | | | is open 365 days a year. The park can close due |
| Park, these populations had been reduced | | | | to snow or ice on the roads so it is best to |
| dramatically due to deforestation and hunting. | | | | contact them first if traveling during the winter. |
| For outdoor lovers, the park truly has something | | | | For current park information, call 540-999-3500. |
| for everyone. Hikers will find over 500 miles of | | | | |