Shenandoah National Park is immensely popular during the fall season and for good reason: the foliage is fabulous! Celebrate the relationships you share with family and friends this fall from Big Meadows and Skyland.
In addition to the great work of the National Park Service, concessioner Delaware North has kept the lodging and dining elements running at peak efficiency and quality for guests since 2013.
An overnight, weekend, or longer stay inside of Shenandoah National Park is arguably more comfortable when you choose Big Meadows Lodge, Skyland, or Lewis Mountain Cabins as your home base. Each accommodation offers a different atmosphere, view, and amenities.
Big Meadows Lodge
Open through November 7, Big Meadows Lodge is located across from its namesake, a big meadow, at mile 51 on Skyline Drive. It’s a quintessential lodge experience with wood grains found throughout and fireplaces. Some rooms offer air conditioning (who needs it this time of year at 3,548 feet?), some offer king beds, some are cozy suites, and some are even pet-friendly.
Five cabins are included among the accommodations at Big Meadows. Each offers a fireplace and double bed, and they’re within easy walking distance to the main lodge. None of the accommodations at Big Meadows offers in-room telephone, and guests are advised that cell service is dependent upon your carrier.
When you’re hungry, the Spottswood Dining Room at Big Meadows has you covered. You’ll also find New Market Taproom and the Craft Shop at your convenience.
TIP: Bring a telescope! Big Meadows is a prime dark sky viewing location.
Skyland
Skyland is open longer than Big Meadows, ensuring you can stretch your stay through the Thanksgiving holiday. Book through November 28 and enjoy a room at the highest elevation in Shenandoah National Park (3,680 feet).
Choose from bright, newly renovated rooms with queen and king beds, traditional lodge-style rooms with wood features, intimate suites, ADA accessible options, and cabin stays. Like Big Meadows, none of the accommodations at Skyland offer an in-room phone, but some do have television.
Also located at Skyland are the Pollock Dining Room (ask for a window seat), Mountain Taproom, Skyland Gift Shop, and a Grab ‘N Go area to load up on snacks for your drive or hike.
Access Skyland from mile 41.7 and 42.5 on Skyline Drive.
TIP: Plan a Thanksgiving getaway at Skyland! The Pollock Dining Room is open Thanksgiving Day from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., but reservations are strongly advised. A maximum of 10 people can be seated together. See the menu and get reservation information.
Lewis Mountain Cabins
Comfortable cabins for one, a couple, or a small family range from primitive with no running water to almost like home, minus the refrigerator. The Lewis Mountain Gift Store offers all you need for housekeeping, plus showers and a laundry facility.
Deals & Discounts
From packages built for hikers to those dedicated to pooches or romance, there are several ways to save or bundle the fun in Shenandoah National Park. As a thanks our military service personnel, the Salute the Troops discount is a 10% savings on mid-week stays. Veterans and active military members are always welcome for free at Shenandoah National Park.
Special Events
As with most destinations during the time of COVID-19, the calendar of events is subject to change. See what’s currently planned but check back prior to travel to confirm dates and times.
To monitor activities and amenity availability within Shenandoah National Park, consult the Service Updates page. Guidance as to mask requirements and dining hours are also detailed.
Images courtesy of Delaware North (DNC Parks & Resorts at Shenandoah, Inc.).