Shenandoah Trails

[Revolutionist_Rob]

So I'm looking at going down to Shenandoah between March 17th and 25th to go backpacking, but I am from Upstate NY and have never been in the Shenandoah area. Does anyone know of any particulary good areas within shen to backpack? I'm looking at maybe 35-50 miles

With the Ice storm should i be sticking to only the AT? Are there any good 35-50mile Circuits where I can get back to my vehicle easily?

Anything else I should be aware of camping in Shenandoah? I'm an experianced guide in the Adirondacks but I dont know how different Virginia is in comparison. Any Insight would be much appreciated.

[Peaks]

There are some great loop hikes in SNP. I'd suggest getting the maps, and browsing some of the hiking books on SNP. Places like White Oak Canyon are spectacular.

Years ago, we did several loop hikes in SNP, often for several days, going down one canyon or side trail, and then following the AT along the ridge to get back to our car.

Most good loops are in the Northern section or Central section.

Enjoy!

[veteran]

Park Map (http://www.shenandoah.national-park.com/map.htm)

SNP Hiking Maps (http://www.nps.gov/archive/shen/2b.htm)

[StarLyte]

So I'm looking at going down to Shenandoah between March 17th and 25th to go backpacking, but I am from Upstate NY and have never been in the Shenandoah area. Does anyone know of any particulary good areas within shen to backpack? I'm looking at maybe 35-50 miles

With the Ice storm should i be sticking to only the AT? Are there any good 35-50mile Circuits where I can get back to my vehicle easily?

Anything else I should be aware of camping in Shenandoah? I'm an experianced guide in the Adirondacks but I dont know how different Virginia is in comparison. Any Insight would be much appreciated.

I've hiked in the ADKs every year and you are going to love Shenandoah !

(Skyline might reply here.)

This online map (http://www.nps.gov/archive/shen/map.htm) is the NPS map of Shenandoah and is the SAME EXACT map you will receive when you pay at the Shenandoah Park gate.

Have fun!!!!

[astrogirl]

I would call the park, if you're planning to use Skyline Drive. A lot of it is closed, and the park is never swift about clearing the road. The AT is fine, and I would guess many sidetrails are too. They are maintained by the PATC, like the AT. I think. The road would be your problem more than the trails.

I've only been in the north section, and I haven't driven that far in to hike over the winter. Skyline Drive was closed at Swift Run Gap last time I was there, and that's the lower third of the park.

[peter_pan]

Best area white oak falls, old rag mtn and cedar run.

Pan