Shenandoah National Park

[mattyg2]

I haven't really posted anything as of yet, but I love this forum. I have definately learned alot just browsing through the old threads.

I'm looking to spend ~5 days at SNP and was looking for any trail recommendations. A couple of people highly recommended the AT through that area, but I was just looking for some other opinions, and maby a good loop so I can make it back to my car without backtracking.

Thanks in advance for any advice,
Matt

[someday]

We talked to a ranger and he set us up on a loop hike so we could end up back near our car. WHITE OAKS TRAIL, absolutely gorgeous, 7 waterfalls or something like that. We did it as a overnight backpack so we could enjoy sleeping above a falls. No actual campsite, but ranger suggested stealth sites. Could be done as a day hike if you're in shape (2,000 ft. elevation loss and gain). Sorry I don't remember where we parked, but rangers at visitors center can advise on several loops so you don't have to backtrack. Oh, enjoy!

[hikerltwt]

AT, White Oak Canyon, Old Ragg and Hot-Short Mountain Trails can be combined for a loop hike of varying lenghts. Old Ragg is a must see in the area!

Y0-YO

[Peaks]

The best hiking in Shenandoah National Park is off the AT, off the ridge, and away from Skyline Drive. There are several loops possible, using the AT as a return leg to your car.

I suggest that you buy the book about circuit hikes in SNP, and then lay your maps out. As others have posted, White Oak Canyon, Old Ragg and others are popular for a good reason.

[Moon Monster]

By far the most crowds are in the Central Section. But that is where many of the neatest features are. For the AT itself, I particularly like the Southern Section's portion.

Consider cross-posting this on the forum on http://www.patc.net, where lots of Shenandoah lovers frequent.

[jlb2012]

PATC forum link: http://www.hypernews.org/HyperNews/get/trails/PATC.html

[jlb2012]

2004 Opening Dates (http://www.nps.gov/shen/pphtml/newsdetail11683.html)

note park is open itself 24/7/365 - the opening dates on the page refer to visitor centers, campgrounds, and waysides/stores

[Peaks]

2004 Opening Dates (http://www.nps.gov/shen/pphtml/newsdetail11683.html)

note park is open itself 24/7/365 - the opening dates on the page refer to visitor centers, campgrounds, and waysides/stores

The opening dates of campgrounds, waysides & stores is important for planning your resupply though SNP

[Furlough]

Another good overnight loop is as follows: Start at White Oak Canyon Trail Parking lot on the Skyline Drive just past the Skyland entrance. Hike down Whiteoak Canyon to Berry Hollow Rd. Hike up Berry Hollow Rd to intersection with Nicholson Hollow Fire Rd and Old Rag Fire Rd. Camp off of Nicholosn Hollow Fire Rd. Next day hike down Nicholson Hollow Fire Rd to Corbin Hollow Trail. Hike up Corbin Hollow Trail to Old Rag Fire Road. Follow Old Rag Fire Rd until it crosses White Oak Canyon Trail. Follow White Oak Canyon trail back to parking area and start point.

Harry

[peter_pan]

About two years age Backpacker Mag recommended Old Rag, White Oak Canyon and Cedar Run loop as one of the top 10 hikes. Smee and I did it and it was great. Don't miss Old Rag. Plan an hour of snacks , sun and sights at the top....oh yea, pick a clear day...enjoy