Good to know
- Tickets
- The park charges an entry fee per vehicle, covered by the America the Beautiful pass. Check nps.gov for current rates. An extra day-use ticket from Recreation.gov is needed to hike Old Rag from March to November.
- Time needed
- 1 to 2 days to drive Skyline Drive and do a few hikes.
- Best time
- Mid-October for fall color, and May for wildflowers. Weekdays are much quieter.
- Getting there
- Luray is about 15 minutes from the Thornton Gap entrance. Washington Dulles International Airport is about 1 hour 15 minutes from the north entrance at Front Royal.
Where to stay nearby
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Shenandoah National Park questions
Do I need a ticket to hike Old Rag?
Yes, from March to November you need a day-use ticket from Recreation.gov, bought before you arrive, in addition to your park pass.
What are the best hikes in Shenandoah?
Old Rag, Dark Hollow Falls, Stony Man and Whiteoak Canyon are the most popular.
Where should I stay in Shenandoah?
Skyland and Big Meadows Lodge are inside the park, plus several campgrounds. Luray and Front Royal have more hotels.
