Planning A Trip To Shenandoah National Park: 7 Mistakes To Avoid

There is plenty of information around about planning a Shenandoah visit. For all sorts of information about the park, check out my Shenandoah National Park Guides.

The thing is that most of it focuses on what you should do when you visit Shenandoah National Park.

This guide is different. I will share with you what you should AVOID doing when planning your Shenandoah National Park visit. This will help you be fully prepared when you visit Shenandoah National Park.

I’m a national park expert and have extensive knowledge of Shenandoah National Park. I’ve seen many people make mistakes (and I’ll admit I made a few myself!) that have impacted their trip. So now I’m happy to share what I’ve learned from their (and my) experiences so that you can avoid these common pitfalls.

Let’s take a look at the biggest mistakes to avoid when planning a trip to Shenandoah National Park.

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#1 Stopping at every overlook on Skyline Drive

Road highway with a car approaching surrounded by trees with colorful leaves in Shenandoah National Park

Of course you will want to drive the Skyline Drive – it’s the highlight of any visit to the park. In fact, the park was created around the scenic drive along the ridge of the Blueridge Mountains.

However, there over 70 scenic overlooks along its 105-mile length. Take it from me, attempting to visit each one can lead to a sense of fatigue and diminish the special quality of each view. The drive, famous for its panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley and the Virginia Piedmont, is definitely a highlight of the park, but moderation is key to fully appreciating the experience.

To make the most of your time on Skyline Drive, I recommend researching and selecting the best overlooks beforehand. Prioritizing stops such as Range View Overlook, which provides one of the longest vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains, or Hogback Overlook, with its expansive 180-degree views, will allow you to appreciate the moments without feeling rushed.

To help you, I did the research for you. Yes, I stopped at every single viewpoint – so I could recommend my favorite ones to you:

READ MORE: 25 Best Overlooks On Skyline Drive

#2 Only doing the Skyline Drive

While this iconic drive is an absolute must, with its breathtaking views and convenient access to many of the park’s features, it barely scratches the surface of what Shenandoah has to offer. Limiting your experience to just the drive means missing out on a large part of the park – and the adventures that await off the beaten path.

Shenandoah National Park is a hiker’s paradise, boasting over 500 miles of trails, including a portion of the famous Appalachian Trail. Hikers can explore diverse landscapes, from gentle streams to rocky peaks, and the trails lead to stunning waterfalls, such as Dark Hollow Falls and Whiteoak Canyon Falls, which are even more impressive after a rain.

Additionally, the park offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, bird watching, and stargazing, which are best experienced outside of your car. The Big Meadows area is a perfect spot for these activities, with its wide open space and frequent deer sightings.

#3 Not seeing the night sky

Wide field with trees under the blue skies filled with stars during the night in Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah’s location away from major urban centers means that the park benefits from darker skies, which makes it one of the best places on the east coast to see the stars. If you don’t take in the night sky, you’ll miss out on this incredible experience.

The park’s higher elevations and more open areas, such as Skyland and Big Meadows, are particularly well-suited for stargazing. On a clear night, the Milky Way stretches across the sky, and constellations appear with a clarity seldom seen in more populated areas. The park occasionally offers ranger-led night sky programs that educate visitors on celestial features and how to stargaze effectively.

To maximize your stargazing experience, check the lunar calendar and plan to observe during a new moon when the sky is darkest. Bring a blanket or a chair to lie back on, and allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness for about 20-30 minutes. A star map or a stargazing app can enhance your understanding and appreciation of the stars above.

#4 Underestimating the hikes

Shenandoah has miles of wonderful trails that cater to all levels of hikers, from leisurely walks to challenging climbs. However, many visitors don’t realize that because most trails begin at the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the return portion often involves an uphill trek back to the starting point. This unique aspect of Shenandoah’s topography can catch hikers off guard, especially those used to trails that end with a downhill walk.

Before embarking on a hike, assess the trail’s difficulty and ensure you have the physical stamina and appropriate gear to complete it safely. Always check the elevation changes and trail descriptions available at visitor centers or on the park’s website. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a map, and wear suitable footwear to handle the rocky and sometimes steep terrain.

I also recommend starting hikes early in the day to avoid the afternoon heat and to allow plenty of time to return before dusk.

#5 Overlooking the park’s historical sites and visitor centers

While the park’s natural beauty is a significant draw, its rich history and educational resources are equally valuable. Many visitors focus solely on outdoor activities, but this is a mistake, as you’ll miss the chance get a deeper understanding of the park’s cultural and natural heritage.

Shenandoah’s visitor centers, such as the Harry F. Byrd Sr. Visitor Center and Dickey Ridge Visitor Center, offer tons of information through exhibits, interactive displays, and, of course, knowledgeable park rangers. These centers provide insights into the park’s geology, wildlife, and the history of the region, including the story of how the park was established during the Great Depression.

Historical sites within the park, like Rapidan Camp, the former summer retreat of President Herbert Hoover, and old homesteads, give a glimpse into past lifestyles and the people who once called the Blue Ridge Mountains home. These sites often include guided tours or interpretive trails that enrich the visitor experience.

#6 Staying outside the park

While there are accommodation options outside the park, if you can arrange it, staying within the park’s boundaries offers several advantages that can greatly enhance your visit.

Firstly, staying inside the park allows for early starts to the day, giving you the best opportunity to witness wildlife at dawn, experience popular trails with fewer crowds, and catch the beauty of sunrise over the mountains. It also eliminates the need for a daily commute through the park’s entrances, saving time and allowing for a more relaxed pace to explore the park’s attractions.

Shenandoah offers a range of in-park accommodations, from the rustic charm of historic lodges like Skyland and Big Meadows Lodge to a variety of campgrounds suitable for tents, RVs, and even backcountry camping for the more adventurous.

These accommodations provide a closer connection to nature, with the sounds of the forest and the starry night sky right at your doorstep. Plus, by staying inside the park, you support the park’s maintenance and conservation efforts, as the fees contribute directly to the upkeep of Shenandoah National Park.

#7 Limiting yourself to the park

While the park itself is the main reason to go (IMO), limiting yourself just to the park is a mistake. The surrounding area in the Shenandoah Valley and beyond has several really cool attractions that can complement your national park adventure.

Just a short drive from the park, the Luray Caverns has stunning underground formations. As the largest caverns in the eastern United States, they offer a unique subterranean experience with guided tours that reveal towering stalagmites, delicate stalactites, and the amazing Great Stalacpipe Organ.

Another not-to-be-missed historical site is Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson, located in nearby Charlottesville. This UNESCO World Heritage Site provides a deep dive into the life and legacy of the third U.S. president, with beautifully preserved grounds and an insightful museum.

The Shenandoah Valley is also known for its vineyards, charming small towns, and Civil War history, offering a variety of activities to suit any interest.

Travel Insurance

You should, of course, always have travel insurance, but especially when visiting national parks. Travel insurance covers things like health expenses, lost or stolen property, trip cancellation, and emergency repatriation. If you want to learn more about all this, check out my Guide to Buying Travel Insurance (on my other blog) before getting your insurance.

A great insurance option is Travelex.  It has coverage for all you’ll need. You can compare Travel Insurance plans here or get a quote right now:

Additional Planning Resources for Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park Guide
Closest Airports To Shenandoah National Park
Best Overlooks on Skyline Drive
Skyline Drive Mile Markers
Best Hikes in Shenandoah National Park
Best Waterfalls in Shenandoah National Park
Best Time To Visit Shenandoah National Park

Enjoy your trip to Shenandoah!

Do you have any other tips for visiting Shenandoah National Park? I’d love to hear about them.  Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know (you can also pick up extra planning tips, share your photos and stories with other national park lovers and more). 

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About the Author

James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.

He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and all of the main national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks.

Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for most of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, comprehensive camping and hiking gear reviews and buying guides, and helpful packing lists and gift guides will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.

As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.