Hike the Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail is a 2,181-mile public footpath that traverses some of America’s most scenic, wooded, pastoral, wild, and culturally resonant lands.

Shenandoah National Park includes a 101-mile portion of the Appalachian Trail. The trail traces the ridge of the Blue Ridge mountains, often following the same route as Skyline Drive. The trail crosses Skyline Drive numerous times in the park.

Hiking the Appalachian Trail can be a great adventure. We encourage all visitors to download this guide, published by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy for detailed information, “Step by Step: An Introduction to Walking the Appalachian Trail.”

The AT is open to walkers, hikers, and backpackers. It is closed to motor vehicles and bicycles. It is closed to horses, except in certain limited sections where they are expressly allowed. Section hikers are encouraged to plan hiking in mid-July through mid-May (not in or near June) due to busy “thru-hiker season”.