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Shenandoah National Park A visitor with binoculars searches the sky for birds in Big Meadows.
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Shenandoah National Park
National Trails Day
 
The Appalachian Trails meanders through grass and the forest in Shenandoah National Park.
NPS |John F. Mitchell
 
Shenandoah National Park Celebrates National Trails Day!

June 4, 2011

Shenandoah National Park and the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club celebrates National Trails Day on the first Saturday in June. New hikers and experienced backpackers alike are invited to learn new trail skills and practice old ones at the "Beyond the Trailhead" event at the Byrd Visitor Center, milepost 51 on Skyline Drive. Come participate in hikes, demonstrations, and presentations throughout the day.

A variety of hikes guided by experienced Trail Patrol members will be offered for people of all ages and experience levels--hikes suitable for families with children and easy, moderate, and advanced hikes for adults. Hikers will need to meet at the registration table at Byrd Visitor Center 15 minutes before the hike time to sign in. Hikers should wear footwear and clothing for the season, and bring plenty of water.

 
Hikes:
All hikes begin at Byrd Visitor Center, milepost 52.
Difficulty Hike Mileage Start Finish
Easy Story of the Forest 1.8 mi. 10:00 11:45
Easy Appalachian Trail Ramble 2.0 mi.

10:45
and
1:00

1:00

3:15

Moderate Dark Hollow Falls 1.4 mi. 9:30
and
1:30

11:45

3:45

Advanced Rose River-Dark Hollow Falls 3.8 mi. 9:15 1:00
Advanced Rapidan Camp via Mill Prong 4.0 mi. 9:45 2:30
 

 

 Presentations at Byrd Visitor Center Auditorium:

1:30 - A Pictorial History of Virginia's Appalachian Trail
Leonard Adkins will explore the early days of the AT in Virginia.

3:30 - Applachian Trail Reflections
Georgia Harris and Randy Motz will share their thru-hiking experience.

A ranger program is a unique opportunity to learn about Shenandoah National Park.
Ranger Programs
Click here for program schedule
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Old Rag hiker in fog
Old Rag Map
Get a map and directions. (pdf 198 kb)
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Learn about the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC)
Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC)
Learn more about our partner volunteer trails organization.
more...

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Last Updated: August 26, 2011 at 11:56 MST