Shenandoah National Parks north entrance, located near Front Royal, is about 75 miles from Washington, D.C. It covers nearly 200,000 acres of forests, mountains and streams. Shenandoah National Park straddles the Blue Ridge Mountains. Legend has it that Shenandoah means either daughter of the stars or river of high mountains in a Native American language. Both phrases aptly describe aspects of the parks legendary beauty. Two mountain peaks top 4,000 feet and three major rivers begin in the park: the Shenandoah, the Rappahannock and the James. Scenic Skyline Drive runs for 105 miles, the length of the park, starting near Front Royal and ending at Rockfish Gap. Along the way, pause at overlooks that deliver panoramic views of the Blue Ridge peaks. And be sure to get out of your car to hike some trails.
Posted on: Sun, 27 Oct 2013 16:56:31 +0000