About Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park lies along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains in north central Virginia, less than 90 miles southwest of Washington, DC. The park stretches about 80 miles north to south and consists of more than 197,000 acres, including nearly 80,000 acres of designated wilderness. The park straddles habitats of both the northern and southern Appalachians and supports a rich assemblage of approximately 2,100 species of flora and fauna. Rock outcrops punctuate this otherwise forested habitat. Skyline Drive, a world-famous park tour road, traverses the length of the park for 105 miles and provides opportunities for outstanding views of the Shenandoah Valley and the Piedmont from the Drive’s numerous overlooks. The park boasts 500 miles of hiking trails, including 101 miles of the famous Appalachian Trail, as well as several historically significant landmarks including Skyland, Rapidan Camp, and structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC).
Source: Foundation Document – Shenandoah National Park
Fast Facts:
| Date the Park was Established: | December 26, 1935 |
| Park Area (as of 2019): | 199,223.77 acres (806.2 km2) |
| Recreational Visitors (2018 Total): | 1,264,880 visitors |