Shenandoah is one of the most popular national parks in the United States. Situated just 75 miles west of Washington DC, the park is a major Virginia attraction drawing over a million visitors each year. Shenandoah sits astride the Blue Ridge mountain range and occupies an area of 300 square miles.
History
The park was founded in 1936 with a dedication speech delivered by President Roosevelt. Shenandoah National Park is a continuing tribute to the Civilian Conservation Corps. The Corps built the park developing roads, paths, picnic areas and the many scenic lookouts which are outstanding features of the park. Between 1933 and 1942 there were in all 10 camps in the area to house the Conservation Corps workers. At its peak, the Corps grew to over 10,000 workers living and working at the site. A life-size bronze statue at the Big Meadow Visitor’s center commemorates the contribution of the CCC.
The Park
The famed Skyline drive runs over a 100 mile from North to South with 75 scenic view look outs for spectacular views of the lush-green countryside. Driving along the skyline drive is pleasurable too. To stop and admire the panoramic views and enjoy the crisp mountain air is time well spent. Over 40 streams flow through the park creating waterfalls, rapids, and pools. Among Shenandoah’s waterfalls, the best known is the Dark Hollow Falls with a height of 70 ft. There are several other falls in the park with varying hiking distances and climbs.
The park has miles of excellent hiking trails of different skill levels. With 500 miles of trails including 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail, Shenadoah is popular with hikers. Rock climbing and rappelling programs are offered. Horse riding is available at the stables near the Skyland resort. There is plenty to do here – ride, bike, hike or just drive. The park provides activities for the whole family. The amenities in the park include picnic areas, concession stands and restaurants.
Wildlife
The park has plentiful wildlife with a host of animals, birds and insects living in the friendly Shenandoah environment. Chestnut oaks and red oaks make up the bulk of the forest trees. Acorns provide needed food for the wild animals in the park. Over 90 percent of the park is thickly forested. The American black bear is sometimes seen in the park but this is infrequent. We were lucky to see one foraging unconcerned close to the road.
Deer are more commonly seen around Big Meadows and along open areas. The best time is early in the day when they come out to graze. Deer appear unfazed by people. A doe grazing by the road seemed happy to go eye-ball to eye-ball with us as we stopped to gawk. The doe was close enough to touch. We blinked first and reluctantly moved on. There are also wild turkeys and close to 200 species of birds to be seen in the park. Raptors include peregrine falcons and owls. Box turtles and some 18 species of snakes are also known to be in the park.
Other Attractions
The Luray Caverns and the Natural Bridge, located further south are big attractions in this part of Virginia. Lodging is available with rooms and cabins at Skyland Resort, Lewis Mountain cabins and at the Big Meadows Lodge. For those seeking an extended refuge in the park’s idyllic surroundings, there are four campgrounds in beautiful scenic locations.
The park assumes a different look with each season. Winter sees the land covered under a mantle of snow with the bare limbs of trees reaching out. In spring, the trees are brilliant shades hues of fresh green. This turns darker with summer. In the fall, the park is resplendent with shades of yellow, brown, orange and reds stretching away into the distance and the meadow itself an unusual shade of red. Whatever the season, a visit to this park is always one to look forward to.
Afsar Husain - Afsar has been a freelance writer and photographer for many years. He holds a Masters degree in English and has published travel and ...
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