Best Trails in Shenandoah National Park

Went with my wife and two dogs. Beautiful short moderate hike.

Great trail. Going in at the parking area I got closer to 11 miles than what AllTrails says. Great scenery. There are a few stream crossing. Using stones and downed trees its not a problem for an adult with decent balance or someone who doesn't mind getting wet.

Go in the morning, it's beautiful and quiet. Going all the way down to the base of the falls is worth the effort too.

Decent hike. It can be 1.7 miles or 2.7 depending on wether you make it a loop down the Appalachian Trail. Otherwise, just walk up to the summit and back.

Good short moderate trail for leashed dogs and kids.

I’ll visit again.

Easy stroll through the wilderness, well maintained walking path easy for very young kids.

Where do I start. This hike is absolutely beautiful. Breathtaking views of many waterfalls! You can even climb a few rocks to get right up close to a few of the falls. Unfortunately we were not prepared for what was to come. The hike up was pretty tough. Once we got up to where you take the fire road to Cedar Run trail we took the wrong path (both have yellow blazes) we ended up hiking about a mile or so in the wrong direction and that’s when the fog rolled in. Temps dropped about 20 degrees and it began to POUR down rain. Needless to say once we started our decent down Cedar Run everything was soaked and muddy and it’s VERY steep. We were slipping and sliding all over the place and much of the trail down is nearly impassable by fallen trees and things. We hiked the trail counterclockwise which under normal weather conditions would’ve been much easier. This loop is definitely not for beginners. You will absolutely be sore the next day and your feet will most definitely get wet because there are several river crossings. Most of the way UP is well.....UP....steep and you will need to take breaks to catch your breath. This loop is a beast. Can’t wait to tackle it again in better weather.

What an absolutely beautiful hike! I expected it to be hard but I had no idea how hard it was really going to be. I’m not sure about the mileage because my phone said 8.4 miles when all is said and done and my watch said 9.6 miles. This is not for a novice hiker! We took this hike counterclockwise. We had met some other people on the hike that said that clockwise disease year. But I believe there is no easy way to do this hike. I really had to keep pushing myself. We got down to the bottom of the canyon and I was starting to feel tired. The hike downhill was strenuous. But the hike up was a test! With an elevation gain of 2200 feet on the way up it really testing me. The fire road itself was difficult as we were exhausted by the time we got to the fire and the fire is completely uphill. But I’m happy to say that I finished it!

This was my first hike and a solo one at that. It was awesome!!! The rock scramble did not disappoint this first timer. I’m short (4’11”) and was able to this. Some review said it might be difficult and they were but other hikers were there to help if needed. I did this counter clockwise. Went up the fire road first then hit the scramble. That helped I’m sure as I was able to slide down a lot of the boulders. So if you’re in decent shape and want an exciting solo hike.....THIS WAS GREAT.

This hike has beautiful views at the top with an amazing breeze to cool down after the uphill. The rock scrambles are very fun and can be easy for some or very difficult depending on your physical shape and comfortability with bouldering/climbing. At a certain point the distance of the hike can definitely be mentally taxing and a motivational killer if fatigued lol. Specially if doing the hike the opposite direction with the weakley hollow fire trail first. Very fun and enjoyable workout. Good luck everyone!

Didn’t expect the Moormans river section to be partially two-tracked, but it was still a beautiful trail with plenty to see!

Excellent hike with steady ascent the whole way and excellent view from summit. Very rocky so be prepared and aware. Also saw black bears on this hike so beware of hiking alone!

It was pretty. Not on my favorites list. 7.8 my ass.. trail was 9 miles.. I dunno how y’all got 7.8..

Damn good hike

I was surprised to be along water a lot of this loop, which was nice. A few really nice small waterfalls.... appeared to be some nice swimming spots for the summer. It does have some elevation challenges. We did the loop backwards which seemed the best way to go.

Took the trail down to the fall. It's easy and not too long, but don't underestimate the uphill climb on the way back.

Not much to see on the falls. You can climb down some rocks next to the water. If you want a really short hike with some water, it's worth doing.

We walked past the fall on the fire road another mile, and that was very steep at points, which made the return a decent workout.

My favorite trail starts 1 mile from my door.

really steep in areas. lots of mountain Laurel

Went with 3 kids- 4, 10, and 12 yr old. They have not been hiking before, so I was expecting it would be difficult for them... They did great for the first half and managed better than I thought for the second half. We enjoyed the several water falls and they want to come back to swim when the weather is warmer!

Short hike for great views

Best swimming hole hike in Virginia. Lots of places to cool off in the water along this trail. Summer time favorite. I guess news has spread because its definitely become more crowded over the years.

Classic Shenandoah must do hike. Spectacular views at the top. Can’t believe this is in Virginia. Definitely more crowded than most others due to its reputation.

crowded especially in the summer but a great little hike especially if you're looking to stretch your legs on a journey down skyline drive

One of my favorite trails in the area. Gorgeous little swimming hole. Splendid views towards the end (or beginning depending on which way you hike). Could spend all day by the water on this hike on a hot summer day. Water is definitely a bit nipply tho.

My wife and I Loved the views! Only a handful of people on trail, mostly had to ourselves. Easy to follow, big loop like is shown here will show you all the cool views.

Steep and wet in some areas, but beautiful forest trail !

Loved the rock scrambles - couldn't stop grinning!

My husband and I have different fitness levels and so I picked this trail because it was fairly close to home, not too long, and had a gorgeous view. Would do it again with him but would do a more challenging hike on my own. We thought it was a great place to hang out and could even see Blue Mountain and the Monastery in Linden, which is up the street from our home, with our pocket telescope.

My very first hike and I chose this monster. Had a wonderful time and was not disappointed with the views.

Rewarding and intense quick hike. Awesome views anytime of the day. Have seen both the sunrise (in October) & the sunset (in April) here - both experiences invigorating. Would absolutely do it again and again.