Pack for humid forests, waterfalls, and Blue Ridge trails
Build My Shenandoah Pack List →Shenandoah National Park runs along the Blue Ridge Mountains, with 500 miles of trails, cascading waterfalls, and the scenic Skyline Drive. It is a humid, forested park rich in black bears and spring wildflowers. Use this packing guide as a starting point, then let PackList's AI personalize it based on your exact dates, activities, and gear preferences.
Just 75 miles from the bustle of Washington, D.C., Shenandoah National Park is a land bursting with cascading waterfalls, spectacular vistas, fields of wildflowers, and quiet wooded hollows. With over 200,000 acres of protected lands that are haven to deer, songbirds, and black bear, there's so much to explore...and your journey begins right here!
50°F — Clear (current forecast).
Infrastructure Improvements to Old Rag Trailhead Information
Effective May 4, Shenandoah National Park will begin infrastructure enhancements at the Old Rag Trailhead main parking lot. We expect to complete work by November 2026. Until then, the main parking lot is closed to all vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Visitors can access Old Rag Trailhead via existing overflow parking lots. Day-use tickets are still required from March 1 through November 30 in addition to a park entrance fee.
Shenandoah National Park Moved to Fully Cashless Fee Collection Information
On July 1, 2025, the park transitioned to a fully cashless system at our fee entrance stations. Only credit cards, debit cards, or mobile payments will be accepted.
Parking at Boundary Access Areas Caution
Visitors are reminded to park in designated parking areas when accessing the park via boundary trailheads. Parking in unauthorized locations may result in your vehicle being towed at the owner's expense. Park on the right side of the road approaching Thompson Hollow. Parking is authorized up to the "No Parking" sign before a private driveway.
Get Skyline Drive Status Updates Information
Sign up for Shenandoah Alerts by texting SHENALERTS to 888777. Any time there are closures, re-openings, or other important safety-related alerts, subscribers will receive a notification via text. You may unsubscribe at any time.
Ticket Required to Hike Old Rag Information
March 1 - November 30 those wishing to hike Old Rag are required to obtain a day-use ticket before arriving.
Check for ticks after every hike — Lyme disease is a real risk
Black bears are common — store food properly and keep your distance
Rocks and roots get very slippery when wet — slow down and use poles
Thunderstorms build on exposed ridges in summer afternoons
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