News Release

Shenandoah National Park announces plans for the Old Rag pilot program

Date: December 1, 2022
Contact: Claire Comer, [phone] x3183

Shenandoah National Park implemented a pilot ticketing program to manage visitation to Old Rag, one the park’s most popular hiking opportunities in March 2022. As was discussed during the civic engagement process, the requirement for a day-use ticket at Old Rag ended November 30, 2022.

The pilot program was instituted to address congestion and visitor safety concerns to ensure a high-quality visitor experience and protect park resources. The pilot limited visitation to this portion of the park to 800 people per day.

During the pilot, park staff gathered data which they will evaluate over the next few months. The park will share the data and seek input from the public in early 2023. The information collected will help park staff decide if the ticketing system should be continued permanently or if the program needs to be modified.

“We appreciate everyone’s cooperation while we tested a means to ensure a high-quality visitor experience and protect park resources at Old Rag,” said Park Superintendent Patrick Kenney. “The information gathered during the pilot will help inform the decision-making process.”