Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is located in the state of Virginia and encompasses a total area of just about 200,000 acres of land. The closest urban center to this national park is Front Royal. The Shenandoah National Park can be accessed using four main entrances. 

The north entrance that is closest to Front Royal can be accessed through the I-66 and US 340. The other three entrances include the central entrance at Thornton Gap that is accessible using the US 211, and the northern and southern end of the park that can be accessed through the I-64. The main headquarters to the park is just three miles west of Thornton Gap.

Once you get to the park, you will get to see a lot of unique features including over 500 miles of trail including a part of the famous Appalachian Trail. You will also get to travel along the famous Skyline Drive, which is a 105-mile road that cuts across hardwood forests along a crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains and that offers spectacular views of Piedmont and the Shenandoah Valley. Besides the magnificent splendor of the natural features in the park, you can also get to experience a lot of recreational activities in the park. 

Some of the popular activities to enjoy include bicycling, hiking, horseback riding, camping, fishing, wildlife viewing, auto touring, ranger-led walks, and interpretive programs. Amenities within the park to facilitate these activities include lodging, picnic area, restroom, restaurant, campground, cabin rental, groceries, visitor centers, self-guided tour/trail, and a museum.

You can bring your dog into the park, but as with other national parks, you will need to observe strict rules. Some of the basic rules include ensuring that your dog is always on a leash that is no more than six feet in length. Ensuring that you clean up after your dog at all times and that you get rid of your dog’s poop in the right way. Additionally, making sure that you are always aware of the areas of the park that you can and that you cannot access is critically important.