About the Shenandoah Valley
The Shenandoah Valley welcomes visitors from across the country and the world. Learn more about this amazing and diverse area!
History
The Shenandoah Valley begins at the top of Virginia and is approximately 140 miles long with the Blue Ridge to the east and the Alleghenies to the west. Before the rest of the continent was explored, the Shenandoah Valley was considered the American frontier. Many years later, the region would play a crucial role in the American Civil War. The turmoil and triumphs of the region’s rich history have been preserved in many museums and sites all across the Shenandoah Valley. It can also be seen in the character and architecture of the cities and towns. The unique history of the Shenandoah Valley makes it the authentic and amazing place that it is today.
National Park
The Shenandoah Valley will forever be associated with Shenandoah National Park. Opened in 1935, the park encompasses nearly 200,000 acres along the Blue Ridge Mountains. The park can be accessed through the quaint Shenandoah Valley towns of Waynesboro, Luray and Front Royal. Head to our destinations page to learn more about the areas.
Scenic Drives
Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway are recognized as two of the most popular scenic drives in America. They both offer stunning views and a peaceful experience, as commercial trucks are not allowed on either road. While they are certainly the most famous byways in the Shenandoah Valley, they are certainly not the only scenic drives. Quiet back roads meander throughout the valley connecting towns, farms, wineries and more. Scenic drives through the Shenandoah Valley are very popular with bikers and motorcyclists.
Trails
Throughout the Valley, there are hiking trails that range from an easy stroll in the woods to multi-day excursions. The famous Appalachian Trail winds through the region, including a long stretch within Shenandoah National Park. There are also plenty of options to float through the Shenandoah Valley. Canoes and kayaks offer a refreshing way to experience the beauty of the valley and possibly spot local wildlife on the James, Maury, Middle and Shenandoah Rivers, just to name a few.
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Featured Press
We understand why travel writers and bloggers want to write about the history, beauty, culture and adventure that exists in today’s Shenandoah Valley. We’re ready to help with tips, story ideas, high-resolution photos, itineraries, fact checking and other resources. Contact us today to learn more.
Featured Adventures
Natural Chimneys Park and Campground
94 Natural Chimneys Lane,
Mt. Solon, VA 22843
540-245-5753
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Sherando Park Mountain Bike Trails
255 Lakeview Circle, Stephens City, VA 22655
(540) 665-5678
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Story Book trail Overlook
Chrisman Hollow Road, New Market, VA 22824
888-367-3965
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Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park
3655 U.S. Highway 211 East
Luray , VA 22835
540 999-3500
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Appalachian Waters Scenic Byway
Route 39
Lexington, VA 24450
(540) 463-3777
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Walkabout Outfitters
21 S. Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450
(540) 464-4453
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Back Home on the Farm
2915 Willow Run Rd, Harrisonburg, VA 22802
(540) 442-6493
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A Dream Come True Playground
1050 Neff Ave, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
(540) 433-9168
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Childrens Discovery Area @ NBSP
6477 South Lee Highway, Natural Bridge, VA 24578
(540) 291-1326
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Natural Bridge State Park – Cedar Creek Trail
6477 S Lee Hwy, Natural Bridge, VA 24578
(540) 291-1326
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Sherando Lake Recreation Area
Sherando Lake Rd,
Virginia 22952
(540) 291-2188
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Walkabout Outfitter
21 S. Main Street
Lexington, VA 24450
540-464-4453
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Beaver Creek
6939 Briery Branch Road
Dayton, VA 22821
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Mossy Creek Outfitters
1790 East Market Street
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
(540) 434-2444
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Explore More Discovery Museum
150 South Main Street
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
(540) 442-8900
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Jordan Hollow Stables
657 Pine Grove Road
Stanley, VA 22851
(540) 778-2623
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Rivers Bend Ranch
397 Riverbend Road
Stanley, VA 22851
(540) 652-1836
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South River Fly Shop
323 West Main Street
Waynesboro, VA 22980
(540) 942-5566
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Luray Caverns
101 Cave Hill Road
Luray, VA 22835
(540) 743-6551
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Massanutten Resort
1822 Resort Drive
Massanutten, VA 22840
(540) 289-4952
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Elliot Knob
2508 Jefferson Highway
Waynesboro, VA 24485
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Madison Run Fire Road
6 Last Left Lane
Hinton, VA 24471
(540) 999-3433
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Edith J Carrier Arboretum
780 University Blvd.
Harrisonburg, VA 22807
(540) 568-3194
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Riven Rock Park
117 South Hollingsworth Road
Woodstock, VA 22831
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Tanner’s Ridge Road
199 South Main Street
Orkney Springs, VA 22851
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Knob Mountain
Timber Ridge Trail
Winchester, VA 22650
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Hazel River Falls
Meadow Spring Trail
Luray, VA 22835
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Laurel Run/Stack Rocks Circuit
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Tuscarora Trail
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Seven Bends State Park
2111 South Hollingsworth Road
Woodstock, VA 22664
(540) 622-6840
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Reservoir Hollow Trail
1100 Pine Avenue
Buena Vista, VA 24416
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Natural Bridge
15 Appledore Lane
Natural Bridge, VA 24578
(540) 291-2121
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