Itinerary Details
MT Sobek: Virginia Shenandoah National Park Hiking
Day 1 Arrive in Shenandoah National Park & Hike on the Appalachian Trail
1.5-hour private van transfer
5.1 miles/2-3 hours hiking with 1,444' elevation gain and 1,094' loss
Meet your guides and fellow hikers this morning for a short introduction and orientation at our host hotel before setting off for Shenandoah National Park. Stop for a hot drink or delicious local pastry in Sperryville, a quaint community nestled in the foothills of the park. Continue into the park and begin hiking on the Appalachian Trail, with a short detour to explore Stoney Man. As you trek toward Skyland Resort on the storied trail, take in the sprawling views of the Shenandoah River Valley and the mountains beyond. The Skyland Resort was built in 1895 on the site that would later become the highest point on Skyline Drive at 3,680 feet. Enjoy sunset views from the lodge's balconies and restaurant, daydreaming of tomorrow's adventures.
Accommodation: Skyland Resort
(L, D)
Day 2 Discover Dark Hollow Falls, Historic Rapidan Camp & Big Rock Falls
0.5-hour private van transfer
8 miles/5 hours hiking with 1,708' elevation gain and 1,878' loss
Kickstart your day with breakfast at the lodge, hop in the van for a brief transfer, then hit the trail. Hike through delicate maple forest to the mossy banks and cascade of Dark Hollow Falls, the rushing water of Big Rock Falls, and historic Rapidan Camp. Once the private retreat of President Herbert Hoover and First Lady Lou Henry Hoover, Rapidan Camp was constructed in 1929. Trusted friends and advisors were hosted here, in a beautiful space perfect for outdoor adventures. After a day on the trail, unwind with time to explore the park's historic exhibits and have dinner at Big Meadows Lodge with stunning views from the dining room.
Accommodation: Skyland Resort
(B, L, D)
Day 3 Summit Hawksbill Peak & Hike Whiteoak Canyon Falls
2-hour private van transfer
6.7 miles/4 hours hiking with 628' elevation gain and 3,131' loss
Start the day with a delicious breakfast and watch as the fog burns away to reveal spectacular views of the Shenandoah Valley. Start with a short warm-up hike to Hawksbill Summit, the highest point in Shenandoah National Park at 4,050 feet. From Hawksbill Summit, traverse Skyline Drive to one of the park's most iconic hikes. Tracing a series of waterfalls that make up Whiteoak Canyon Falls, you'll cross bridges over the rocky banks of the river and stop to soak in the pools below each cascade, watching for wildlife along the way. In the afternoon you'll have the chance to tour and sample wines from one of the East Coast's oldest and largest wineries, Prince Michel Winery. Return to the Skyland Resort and discuss the next day's adventure.
(B, L, D)
Day 4 Take a Drive on Skyline Drive & Hike Dickey Ridge to Front Royal
2-hour private van transfer
8.5 miles/4-5 hours hiking with 1,114' elevation gain and 2,518' loss
Today is your final day in Shenandoah National Park, but the adventure is far from over. After breakfast, depart Skyland for a scenic drive along one of the prettiest sections of Skyline Drive. Start today's hike near Lands Run Gap, hiking parallel with Skyline Drive on Dickey Ridge towards the entrance to Shenandoah National Park and the town of Front Royal. Take your time and relish views of the Shenandoah Valley and River, and lush meadows, before a long, gradual descent to the park's entrance. This afternoon, explore historic Front Royal, an incredibly quaint town that was a focal point during the Civil War. Return to the host hotel in Herndon for final farewells.
(B, L)
