Story of the Forest

Pets are not allowed on this hike. An easier stroll through the woods that passes next to the Big Meadows Air Quality Station, an important place for scientists and researchers to learn about air quality in Shenandoah.

---

Distance: 1.8-mile round trip hike
Difficulty: Easiest (explanation of our hiking difficulty scale)
Hiking Time: 1 hours 30 minutes
Elevation Gain: 290 feet

---

Hike Description 

1. From Byrd Visitor Center (mile 51), follow the sidewalk to the trailhead and take the trail right. 
2. After crossing the bridge, turn left and follow the trail to its intersection with a paved walkway near the campground office.
3. Turn left and follow the walkway back to your starting point.

---

Details

Duration

1-2 Hours

The average hiking duration does not take into consideration fitness, exploration, rest, contemplation, etc.

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

Pets are not allowed on Story of the Forest Trail.

Activity Fee

No

An entrance fee is required to get into Shenandoah National Park.

Location

Central District (Mile 51)

The trailhead for this hike is located down the sidewalk from Byrd Visitor Center.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Accessibility Information

Although pets are not allowed on the Story of the Forest Trail, service animals are welcome. This trail does not meet ADA accessibility guidelines.

Download the trail map
Click the image to download the trail map. Print it out at home or save it to your phone to take with you on your hike.