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 Hike Whiteoak Canyon to See Six Waterfalls
2-hour private van transfer
6.1 miles/4 hours hiking with 154' elevation gain and 2,667' loss
Start the day with a delicious breakfast and watch as the fog burns away to reveal spectacular views of the Shenandoah Valley. Your guide team has arranged for a point-to-point hike that descends on switchback trails into iconic Whiteoak Canyon. Tracing a series of cascading waterfalls, you'll cross bridges over the rocky banks of the river and stop to soak in the pools below, watching for wildlife along the way. In the afternoon, head to DuCard Vineyards to sample their award-winning wines and take in the view of the eastern slope of Shenandoah. Return to the Skyland Resort and discuss the next day's adventure.
(B, L, D)
Day 4 Follow the Appalachian Trail & Summit Hawksbill Peak
2-hour private van transfer
7.1 miles/4 hours hiking with 1,896' elevation gain and 1,430' loss
Today you'll hike from Fisher's Gap to Skyland Stables on a section of the legendary Appalachian Trail. The "AT" covers 2,200 miles, passing through 14 states and connecting Georgia to Maine. Get a glimpse of through-hiking culture as you walk along this beloved route, pausing to take in the views. The trail passes through groves of mountain laurel and forest as it wraps around the rocky slopes of Hawksbill Mountain. Hike up to Hawksbill Summit—the highest point in Shenandoah National Park at 4,050 feet—for spectacular panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley, Old Rag Mountain, and Betty's Rock. Return to the host hotel in Herndon for final farewells after another exhilarating day in Shenandoah.
(B, L)
