The best walks and hikes in Warren County

Shenandoah National Park, a majestic stretch of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia, is a breathtaking haven renowned for its iconic Skyline Drive, a 105-mile National Scenic Byway that meanders along the crest of the mountains. This drive offers nearly 70 overlooks, providing spectacular, sweeping vistas of the Shenandoah Valley to the west and the rolling Piedmont to the east. The park's beauty is particularly celebrated during the autumn months when the hardwood forests ignite in a brilliant display of fall foliage, attracting visitors from across the country to witness the vibrant natural tapestry. Beyond the scenic road, the park encompasses over 200,000 acres of protected lands, a significant portion of which is designated wilderness, making it a critical sanctuary for wildlife, including white-tailed deer, over 200 species of birds, and the elusive black bear. Hikers can explore over 500 miles of trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail, which traverses the park from north to south. These trails lead to cascading waterfalls, quiet wooded hollows, and prominent peaks like Hawksbill, the highest point in the park, ensuring that every visitor can find an adventure suited to their skill level. For those planning a visit, a key travel tip is to be prepared for fluctuating weather conditions by dressing in layers, as temperatures can change quickly with elevation. If you plan on visiting during peak fall foliage season (typically mid-to-late October), consider visiting on a weekday or arriving very early to avoid the bumper-to-bumper traffic that can develop on Skyline Drive. Finally, make sure to fuel up your vehicle before entering the park, as gas stations are not readily available within its boundaries, and always keep a respectful distance from the park's abundant wildlife, for both your safety and theirs.

This rocky viewpoint overlooks the gorge carved by Overall Run, with a fantastic view of Shenandoah’s tallest waterfall. On clear days, you can see across the Shenandoah Valley all the way to Massanutten Mountain. It’s the kind of view that makes you stop and stay awhile, even if you hadn’t planned to.

Shenandoah National Park is an enchanting gateway to the natural wonders and tranquility that await you there.

Beautiful scenic route. Unfortunately we didn't have enough time to explore the trails and only made a quick visit.

Located at the summit of Dickey Hill is a FAA transmission and navigation tower.

Nice viewpoint along the Appalachian Trail. It's a great place to take a break during the hike to sit on the rocks and enjoy the wonderful vista.

Just on top of the hill

Mount Marshall viewpoint sits just a few meters from Skyline Drive. From the road you can easily go to take a look at sweeping and peaceful views of the beautiful Nantahala National Forest.