Date we visited: May 24th, 2021
Where we stayed: Endless Caverns
After New River Gorge, the next stop on our National Park tour was Shenandoah. Set in the northern portion of Virginia, not far from the border with West Virginia, Shenandoah is only about 75 miles from the bustling Washington DC area. The rolling hills and serene vistas are a stark contrast to the DC cityscape that we would soon visit. Our campground even had a private cave system that we were able to tour. It was a far different experience, with much tighter spaces, than the National Park caves we have visited. If exploring small underground spaces, sometimes in pitch black, sounds like fun to you, definitely check it out!
Skyline Drive
A scenic overlook along Skyline Drive
Shenandoah is a long and narrow park. Skyline drive is the main thoroughfare and scenic drive. We traversed the park starting at the north Front Royal entrance station and making our way south. The drive itself winds through the mountains, and there are many pull-offs to take in the rolling forested countryside. Skyline drive roughly follows a ridge line, so there are great views to both the east and west. The road connects to the Blue Ridge parkway on the south side.
Blackrock Summit
The boulder field on Blackrock Summit Trail
The Blackrock Summit trail is a 1.1 mile loop that follows the Appalachian trail for most of the hike. It starts off in a secluded area of peaceful forest. Eventually, and rather suddenly, it opens up to wind around large boulder field.
This trail is also a “TRACK” trail which is a trail identified specifically as being good for kids. We greatly enjoyed this hike and Owen could hardly be contained while exploring the boulder field. The view into the valley from the summit was also spectacular. The various shades of green, which are the hallmark of this forests in this region, were on full display.
After having visited the likes of Glacier, Grand Teton and Mount Rainier, we have to temper our expectations of “mountainous” terrain for the parks in the east. The mountains here may not be as sharp and spectacular as those to the west, but the rolling green vistas and dense forests offer a more subdued and peaceful beauty. The soft tranquility and expansive vistas we found here are a pleasant reminder that our National Parks come in all kinds of different shapes and sizes, each offering a truly unique experience.