Shenandoah National Park is beautiful any time of year, but there’s something extra special about it in the fall.
The trees explode in vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, making it the perfect place to experience fall foliage.
If you’re planning a trip to see the fall colors in Shenandoah National Park, this guide is for you! We’ll cover the best times to visit, the best spots to see the leaves, and some fun activities to make the most of your trip.
Timing Your Visit: When to See Peak Fall Colors
Fall foliage in Shenandoah National Park is usually at its most spectacular in October, but the timing varies based on the elevation of different areas.
The leaves at higher elevations will turn first, followed by the leaves at mid-to-low elevations. If you want to see the best colors at different locations, you should plan your visit accordingly.
The park service begins issuing fall foliage reports in mid-September. These reports will give you the most up-to-date information about where the colors are changing. You can sign up for email updates to make sure you’re in the know about the best times to visit different areas of the park.
Experiencing the foliage: scenic drives and hiking trails
There’s more than one way to peep the leaves when you visit Shenandoah National Park. You can take a scenic drive or hit the trails for a hike.
Driving along Skyline Drive
Skyline Drive is a 105-mile road that winds through the entire park. Along the way, there are 70 overlooks where you can pull over and take in the view.
Stop at as many overlooks as you can to fully appreciate the show. If you can time it right, sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic views.
Hiking through the autumn landscape
Shenandoah has a huge variety of hiking trails, so you’ll be sure to find one that suits your fitness level.
For example, you could take the easy, 1-mile round trip hike to Little Stony Man Overlook, or you could challenge yourself with the 9.2-mile Old Rag Trail. Both of these trails offer spectacular views of the fall foliage, albeit from different perspectives.
Dining and Lodging Options
All that leaf-peeping can really work up an appetite! Luckily, there are options for dining and lodging both in and around Shenandoah National Park.
Dining with a View
Skyland Resort and Big Meadows Lodge both offer restaurants where you can enjoy a meal while you’re surrounded by the gorgeous fall colors.
Lodging In and Around the Park
Staying inside the park offers the most convenience, but lodging outside the park can give you a different kind of experience.
The Blackburn Inn & Conference Center in Staunton, VA, is located near the park and offers amenities like guest rooms, a fitness room, and on-site dining.
In Closing
For leaf-peepers, Shenandoah National Park is a must-see destination. If you want to see the very best fall colors, you’ll need to plan your trip with care. Whether you’re driving along Skyline Drive or hiking through the woods, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. Be ready to enjoy the vibrant colors and the crisp autumn air!