Trip Idea

Central District Hikes in Shenandoah


Directions

The Central District of Shenandoah National Park spans from the Thornton Gap Entrance Station at U.S. Rt. 211 to the Swift Run Gap Entrance Station at U.S. Rt. 33. Most hikes are accessible via Skyline Drive, though some, such as Whiteoak Canyon and Old Rag are accessible from the park boundary. Locations are given by mile markers along Skyline Drive. Learn more about directions to Shenandoah and maps of the Park.

Facilities and Services

Most facilities are services are open from spring to fall and close during the winter. Make sure to check operating hours and seasons before your trip.

• Food and water: Options include the dining rooms at Big Meadows Lodge and Skyland Resort. The Big Meadows Wayside, next to Byrd Visitor Center, and cafe inside Skyland offer more casual fare. Picnic grounds in the Central District include Pinnacles (mile 36.7), Big Meadows (mile 51.2), Lewis Mountain (mile 57.5) and South River (mile 62.8).
• Restrooms: Restroom facilities are available at Byrd Visitor Center, Skyland Resort, as well as all picnic grounds. Some facilities close for the winter season.
• Camping and lodging: Campgrounds in the Central District include Big Meadows Campground and Lewis Mountain Campground. Lodging options are available at Skyland, Big Meadows, and Lewis Mountain. Learn more about lodging and camping.

Featured Hikes

Last updated: March 24, 2021