PLAN YOUR ADRENALINE RUSH - GUIDE TO OUTDOOR RECREATION - Visit Shenandoah County
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GUIDE TO OUTDOOR RECREATION
front cover
PLAN YOUR
ADRENALINE
RUSH
VisitShenandoahCounty.com
WELCOME
The Shenandoah Valley is as beautiful as its name has invoked
for centuries. Its beauty has been written about in folklore,
it is endlessly the subject of paintings and photography. Its
mountains span the western border of Virginia and its lazy river
meanders with no hurry as it bends and winds along the edge
of the western face of the Blue Ridge.
Travelers looking for a place where natural beauty is abundant Plan Your Adrenaline Rush . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
and wildlife is accessible to the naked eye do not need to
go further than just 90 miles west of Washington DC. In Hiking, Biking & Horseback Riding . . . . 6
Shenandoah County, visitors are welcome to experience the
outdoors at their own pace whether it is a leisurely stroll on an Camping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
easy trail to see birds and wildflowers, or an adrenaline rush
jumping from an airplane to see the valley from 12,000 feet. Public River Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Shenandoah County is an outdoor lover’s dream on land, Fishing, Hunting, & Bird Watching . . . . 20
water or in the air. Here you can tackle 178 miles of trails
throughout George Washington National Forest on foot, on Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) Trails . . . . . 24
horseback, or mountain bike; you can kayak, float or fish on
the North Fork of the Shenandoah River; cruise the scenic
Aerial Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
backroads on a motorcycle or on a bicycle; see the beautiful
Golf & Disc Golf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
views from the top of a mountain ski lift, or the basket of a hot
air balloon; enjoy four seasons of fun on the slopes of Bryce Winter Sports at Bryce Resort . . . . . . . . 32
Mountain Resort.
This guide gives you an insider’s view of where to go, how
to get there, and what to expect in order to help you plan the Shenandoah County Tourism
best outdoor adventure possible. Take a look at Shenandoah 600 North Main Street, Suite 101
County’s Visitor Guide for detailed information about places to Woodstock, VA 22664
stay, places to eat and other things to do while you’re here. 540-459-6227
VisitShenandoahCounty.com
PLAN YOUR
ADRENALINE
RUSH
2 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 3
PLAN YOUR W
ith over 178 miles of trails throughout the
George Washington National Forest, it can
be difficult to know where to begin. Let the
ADRENALINE RUSH staff at the George Washington and Jefferson
National Forests Lee Ranger CCC Interpretive Center help
advise you with available trail maps and other resources.
Information about numerous recreational activities,
George Washington and Jefferson National Forests developed campgrounds, picnic areas and hiking trails
Lee Ranger CCC Interpretive Center within the District which lies between Massanutten and
102 Koontz Street, Edinburg, VA 22824
540-984-4101 or 540-933-6171 | Mon-Fri, 8:00am-4:30pm
Great North Mountains. Purchase trail maps, forest maps,
books and souvenirs.
PA
GE
17
SEVEN BENDS STATE PARK
Totaling over 1,000 acres and located in the geographically unique “seven
bends” area of the North Fork of the Shenandoah offering four miles of
river frontage with public access and hiking trails to take advantage of the
spectacular scenery and tell the stories of the area’s natural and cultural
resources. Entrances located off Lupton Road and Hollingsworth Road just
outside of Woodstock, Virginia.
dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/seven-bends
4 5
F
eaturing 178 miles of trails throughout the Trail Key:
National Forest and even more throughout Handicap
the many local parks, Shenandoah County Accessible Trails
offers trails for all skill levels, including
Bike Trail
some handicap accessible trails.
Hiking Trail
Trails are listed based on their location within
8 Horse Trail
the county from North to South. They are also
marked on the pull-out map at the end of this Easy
guide. GPS Coordinates of trailheads or parking Moderate
areas are included when available. Enter GPS Hard
coordinates as you would any address in your
smart phone or mapping device, or reference
HIKING
the map for an overview.
Many trails intersect one another at places. It is
advised that visitors bring a trail map when they
BIKING are unfamiliar with the area.
More information on each trail is also available at
visitshenandoahcounty.com/play/outdoor-sports-recreation/hiking/
For trail locations, please refer to the map at the end of this guide.
Massanutten Trail Strasburg River Walk
Begin your walk at the Strasburg
1 3
This challenging 65.9 mile loop runs
from Strasburg to New Market and back Town Park. The gravel walkway, located
up through Warren County. Enjoy the along the Shenandoah River, offers
entire trail split over several days or beautiful views of the river and the face
enjoy a shorter portion of the trail for of the Massanutten Mountain Range
a simple day hike. Highlights include called Signal Knob. The .9 mile walk
a hang glider launch site overlooking ends at Strasburg High School (Ram
the Seven Bends of the Shenandoah Drive) and three benches and three
HORSEBACK River just below the Woodstock Tower
accessible from Woodstock Tower Road.
doggie clean-up stations are located
along the walk.
RIDING 2
Signal Knob
This 9.9 mile hike offers spectacular
views of Strasburg, Fort Valley and the
8
4
A quiet 7 mile trail featuring
Sulpher Springs Gap Trail
small waterfalls and pools adjoining the
Shenandoah Valley. Both Confederate Tuscarora Trail with views of the Valley
and Union troops used Signal Knob as a and White Rock Cliff and Tea Mountain.
lookout point and signal station during Parking located off Forest Route 1725
the Civil War. Located off Fort Valley GPS COORDINATES: 38.97539, -78.56764
Road. The trail starts from the right side
of the Signal Knob parking area.
5
Meneka Peak This 8.6
GPS COORDINATES: 38.93503, -78.31956 mile hike is an abbreviated version of
the Signal Knob hike with great views
of the valley below. The trailhead is
located on the right hand ride of the
Signal Knob parking area is located in
Fort Valley off Rt. 678.
GPS COORDINATES: 38.93537, -78.31953
6 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 7
Park
6
Mudhole Mountain 12
Little Passage Creek 17
Little Sluice 21
Bryce Mountain Bike
8 This 12.7 mile trail is 8 This trail uses several 8 This 13 mile hike is best completed
a continuation of Maneka Peak and portions of other hikes in the Signal in two days and features a great 1982 Fairway Dr, Basye
is popular with mountain bikers and Knob area including Signal Knob, campsite on the White Rocks Trail near 540-856-2121
levels off after the first 4 miles. Snow Meneka Peak, Mudhole Gap, and the lookout. Located off Johnstown bryceresort.com
melt forms Little Passage Creek which Three Top Mountain and follows a Road. Park at the gate on Rt. 88. To Featuring 8 lift accessed trails ranging
runs through Mudhole Gap in the early long section of a Forestry Service Road begin the hike, follow the road past from beginner to advanced, some of
spring. Start by taking the Tuscarora making it a nice day hike. Located off the gate before left and continuing which are over 2 miles long. The park
Trail to the 1st intersection then turn Boyer Road in Fort Valley. Start at the uphill onto the orange blazed Bread also includes a learning center with
left. Located near Elizabeth Furnace closed gate on the Massanutten Trail. Road Trail. certified instructors and a bike retail
Recreation Area. and rental shop.
GPS COORDINATES: 38.914186, -78.374178 GPS COORDINATES: 38.93246, -78.61782
This easy 1.6 mile (one way) hike
GPS COORDINATES: 38.92997, -78.32788
13
Buzzard Rock 18
Big Schloss/ 22
Stack Rock Trail
7
Buzzard Rock North This 7 mile out and back hike is a Mill Mountain
This is a short and easy 4 shorter hike near Elizabeth Furnace. This 4.4 mile hike climbs 1000 vertical connects the Great North Mountain
mile hike with spectacular views from Located off Fort Valley Road. The trail feet and is a popular day trip offering Trail with The Laurel Run Spur Trail.
Buzzard Rock of Fort Valley below. head is located through the picnic area panoramic views from a towering Generally steep and narrow as it
Accessible via Fort Valley at the Buzzard straight ahead past the furnace. outcrop of white sandstone on Mill descends the mountain. Parking off
Rock parking area off Rt. 619. GPS COORDINATES: 38.93773, -78.28855 Mountain. The trailhead is located Forest Road 252 (known on Google
in the Wolf Gap Recreation Area Maps as Logger Rd 252) off Cold Spring
This 7.6 mile trail stretches 3.5
GPS COORDINATES: 38.93773, -78.28855
14
Three Top Mountain running north. Located at the Wolf Road near Jerome.
Trail 8 This 3.15 mile Kepler Overlook
Tuscarora/Bear Wallow
8
Gap Recreation Area near the VA/WV
23
miles along the ridge line and is one of state line.
trail ascends to elevations above 2,000 the least traveled trails in the Signal GPS COORDINATES: 38.92404, -78.68949 Located near Sheffer’s Gap off the
ft. Park in the Signal Knob parking area Knob area. Located off Boyer Road in Tuscarora Trail, this secluded 6.6 mile
off Rt. 678. Fort Valley. To begin the trail, backtrack 19
Tibbet Knob Tibbet hike near Van Buren Furnace has
GPS COORDINATES: 38.9323, -78.3262 down the forest service road. The Knob is the sister hike to Big Schloss. several nice campsites and vistas
trailhead will be on the right. Starting from the same parking lot along with views of Cedar Creek. The
Charcoal Trail Located
9
GPS COORDINATES: 38.92083, -78.38083 at the Wolf Gap Campground the trailhead for is located off Van Buren
within the Elizabeth Furnace Recreation hike heads in the opposite direction. Road west of Maurertown. The lower
Mountain 8 This
Area, this 0.3 mile loop trail offers 15
Tuscarora/Little North Although shorter, this hike is not as gate on Van Buren Road is closed in
displays explaining the charcoal making family friendly because of two short, the late fall-early spring. At these
process essential to the operation of 8.2 mile trail ascends from Fetzer Gap steep scrambles to the main Tibbet times, park on the right next to a large
the Elizabeth Furnace. Trailhead is off to the ridge of Little North Mountain Knob summit. Park at the Wolf Gap Rec camp site.
State Road 678. before crossing Cedar Creek and Area near the VA/WV state line. GPS COORDINATES: 38.97137, -78.56316
GPS COORDINATES: 38.928996, -78.326980 ascending once again to the VA/WV GPS COORDINATES: 38.92404, -78.68949
Pig Iron Trail This
Little North Mountain
Falls Ridge Hike This 8.5 mile loop trail requires
24
state line. The 1st half of this trail is
8 This 11.7 or 6.9 mile hike
10 20
not maintained and may require some
easy 0.1 mile trail circles the ruins of bushwhacking. Recommended for some bushwhacking at several points,
the Elizabeth Furnace. Learn about experienced hikers only with maps, GPS is long and steep both ascending and which makes the trail hard to follow in
the inner workings of iron making in a and compass. Located off Rt. 603. descending, but offers great solitude places, but it offers spectacular vistas
19th century blast furnace. Accessible GPS COORDINATES: 38.9423, -78.3362 and a 30 foot waterfall. Located near from the top of the North Mountain
Woodstock Tower
via the Charcoal Trail off Rt. 678 in Liberty Furnace Rd on Rt. 701 for the ridge. Recommended for expert hikers
16
Fort Valley. longer hike or park off Forest Road 252 with a map, compass and GPS. Located
GPS COORDINATES: 38.928996, -78.326980 This short 0.15 mile (one-way) hike at the Stack Rock/Laurel Run Trailhead off Zepp Road.
Sherman Gap Trail
takes you to the Woodstock Tower for the 6.9 mile hike. Begin by crossing GPS COORDINATES: 38.97237, -78.52143
11
which offers stunning, 360 degree the stream and following the yellow
A 5.6 mile hike following a rocky views of the Town of Woodstock, Seven blazed trail. Bear right when the trail
25
Little Schloss This
trail with a relatively steep incline Bends of the Shenandoah River and Fort splits at the old bus. 13.2 mile hike is just one of the many
increasing as you get closer to the top. Valley from an elevation of 2,000 ft. GPS COORDINATES: 38.87295, -78.75547 beautiful circuit hikes in the Great North
Parking can be found at the northern Mountain area. It features a spectacular
Located off Woodstock Tower Road by
trailhead at Elizabeth Furnace off vista with mountain laurel in early to
way of Mill Road. Woodstock Tower
Panhandle Road. mid-June. Parking is located off Rt. 92
Road is not accessible to trailers, motor
near Liberty Furnace. Follow purple
homes or RVs due to sharp curves and
blazed Little Sluice Mountain Trail for
steep grades. This road is also closed
the beginning of this hike.
when weather conditions warrant.
GPS COORDINATES: 38.90833, -78.64085
GPS COORDINATES: 38.871973, -78.447241
8 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 9
26
Laurel Run 8 32
Lion’s Tale Trail
This 8.8 mile circuit hike has some of Enjoy this easy 0.5 mile interpretive
the best views in the area. Located off loop trail and explore the forest using
Logger Road 252 near Liberty Furnace, all your senses. Listen to the gentle
west of Woodstock. If the gate is open, ripples of Passage Creek, feel the
park further up the road reducing the refreshing water running from the
hike to 6.6 miles. flume, and smell the sweet aromas of
GPS COORDINATES: 38.88885, -78.72940 sassafras and birch. The trailhead is
located on the north end of Crisman
Duncan Knob Hollow
This 13 mile hike offers several
27
Hollow Road, 9 miles from Rt. 211.
GPS COORDINATES: 38.72795, -78.5333
excellent multi-tent camp sites and is
Trail Learn how the
also accessible in the winter to late 33
Massanutten Storybook
spring months when Rt. 674 is closed.
Located near Camp Roosevelt in Fort Massanutten Mountain was formed
Valley off Rt. 675. The trail begins on this easy 0.4 mile (one-way) paved
by going south on the orange blazed trail. Enjoy the scenic overlook of the
Massanutten Trail. Page Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains
GPS COORDINATES: 38.72821, -78.51698 from the deck at the end of the trail.
Trailhead is located 1.5 miles from
Stephens Trail 8
28
Kennedy Peak Hike/ Rt. 211 on Crisman Hollow Road.
GPS COORDINATES: 38.6535, -78.6032
This popular day hike is steep in places,
Emerald Pond 8
but provides wonderful views from an 34
Bird Knob Trail &
observation tower. 5.2 mile or 9.2 mile
trail loops are available. Popular with This 8 mile hike features the beautiful
equestrians. The trailhead is at the spring fed Emerald Pond, a swimming
back of the parking area near Camp hole with clear and warm water.
Roosevelt in Fort Valley off Rt. 675. Spectacular views of the Harrisonburg
37
Wildflower Trail ROAD BIKING
Learn about the history of forest
Adventure
GPS COORDINATES: 38.72761, -78.51611 Valley to the west are just 1.5 miles
Alice & Kevin Road Biking
into the hike. Start at the front of management on this 0.5 mile (one-
29
Kerns Mountain the parking area on the white blazed way) trail that also retraces Stonewall
This 12.5 mile loop trail is a tough Wildflower Trail. Located off Rt. 211 Jackson’s footsteps during the 703-927-8474
circuit that passes Duncan Knob and near New Market. Shenandoah Valley campaign of the Klw6108@verizon.net
Strickler Knob. Parking area is located GPS COORDINATES: 38.64278, -78.61138 Civil War. Please note: there are several Author of Virginia Road Biking,
at the Jawbone Gap Trailhead off stairs at the beginning of the trail which Kevin Watson is a certified League
This easy 0.25 mile (one-way)
Crisman Hollow Road in Fort Valley. 35
Discovery Way Trail starts at the Forest Service parking Cycling Instructor and tour guide with
lot at New Market Gap on Rt. 211, 3.8 Carolina Tailwinds Bicycling Vacations
GPS COORDINATES: 38.70896, -78.55962
paved trail educates visitors with signs miles east of New Market. which is a growing regional vacation
30
Veach Gap This that discuss the uses of common trees GPS COORDINATES: 38.545, -78.671 company featuring several tours in the
secluded 7 mile hike is located near found in the forest. The trail begins in Shenandoah Valley.
Front Royal, VA. Most of the hike is a
GUIDED
Touring
the Forest Service parking lot at New
gradual ascent through Veach Gap with Market Gap on Rt. 211, 3.8 miles east Shenandoah Mountain
a beautiful overlook and campsite at of New Market. HORSEBACK
877-301-0550
the high point. Take Fort Valley Road to GPS COORDINATES: 38.641945, -78.611664
RIDING
Veach Gap Road. The parking area is mtntouring.com
at the end of the road just before the 36
Strickler Knob This 38
Fort Valley Ranch 8 Offering road and mountain biking tours
closed gate. 7 mile hike is challenging in places in the George Washington National
299 South Fort Valley Road, Fort Valley
GPS COORDINATES: 38.87618, -78.37623 with rocky terrain over the last mile, Forest. By appointment only. Bike
888-754-5771 | 540-933-6633
but offers some of the best vistas in the rentals are also available.
fortvalleystable.com
31
Lake Laura Mid-Atlantic Region with views of New Guided horseback riding tours over
bryceresort.com/lake-laura/ Market Gap, Luray Valley and a 360 scenic wooded mountain trails,
Nature-lovers will enjoy the 3-mile degree view from the summit. This trail surrounded by the George Washington
hiking trail around the lake throughout is not recommended for those traveling National Forest. 1 ½ hour rides.
the year. There is a drive around drop- with children or dogs since it is not a Reservations are strongly suggested.
off area located off of Brenda Lane in maintained trail and bushwacking may Fort Valley Ranch also offers on site
Basye near Bryce Resort. be necessary. Parking near Scothern bunk houses and cabins for rent.
GPS COORDINATES: 38.798964, -78.792642 Gap off Crisman Hollow Road. Open year-round.
GPS COORDINATES: 38.66285, -78.59838
10 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 11
W
hether you’re looking for primitive campgrounds or
a posh glamping experience, Shenandoah County
offers several varieties of camping including
developed camp sites, primitive camping, glamping
CAMPING
and even sites suitable for traveling with your own horses. The
County is home to four developed campgrounds within the George
Washington National Forest as well as other privately owned
campgrounds each offering an assortment of different amenities.
With sites conveniently located off the interstate as well as more
remote wilderness destinations, you’ll find something to suit
whatever level of adventure you desire.
For camping locations, please refer to the map at the end of
this guide.
DEVELOPED CAMP SITES
1
Camp Roosevelt 3
Elizabeth Furnace
Camp Roosevelt is appreciated for Recreation Area
its camping, picnicking and hiking This site has family and group camping,
activities. The family camp has 10 hiking and picnicking, and fishing in
campsites and flush toilets. Water nearby Passage Creek. 33 camp sites
is available and nearby sanitary available. Amenities include improved
waste dumps for camping vehicles campsites with fire rings, picnic tables,
with holding tanks. Open spring & warm showers, and restrooms. The
summer. For more information on family camp has warm showers and
Camp Roosevelt’s unique history flush toilets. No reservations accepted.
as the nation’s 1st CCC Camp, visit This area is a first-come, first-served
visitshenandoahcounty.com/experience/ area. Open year-round.
things-to-do/history/ Directions: Located off Rt. 678 in Fort
Also See: Bird Watching: Daughter Valley. There are three entrances, about
of the Stars Loop: Camp Roosevelt, a half-mile apart. The first entrance is to
page 23 the Group Campground, followed by the
Directions: Located off Rt. 675 in Fort entrance to the “Day Use” area (picnic
Valley. The camp entrance is on the left. ground), and finally the entrance to the
GPS COORDINATES: 38.733055, -78.51722 Family (or “overnight”) campground.
GPS COORDINATES: 38.928333, -78.33
2
Creekside Campground
Family owned and operated 4
Little Fort
campground featuring RV and tent sites Little Fort is a minimally developed
with picnic tables and fire rings. Pets recreation area near a meadow that
are permitted on leashes only. Located was once a rest stop for a stagecoach
next to Stoney Creek. line. This scenic area features 9
108 Palmyra Road campsites and vault toilets. There is no
Edinburg, VA 22824 water available so be sure to bring your
540-984-4299 own water supply. There are nearby
off-road trail heads for OHV use in the
Tasker’s Gap and Peters Mill Run trail
areas. Open year-round.
Directions: Located off Rt. 758 in Fort
Valley. The camp entrance on left.
GPS COORDINATES: 38.866943, -78.44444
12 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 13
GLAMPING
Cottage on the Seven Bends
Near Seven Bends State Park, Cedar Creek &
Belle Grove National Historical Park
hipcamp.com/virginia/cabin-on-the-seven-
bends/cottage-on-the-seven-bends
Enjoy this secluded river perch overlooking the
North Fork of the Shenandoah River. Provides
river access for fishing, swimming, and paddling
(kayaks and canoes provided). Screened cottage
with deck. The site is open spring, summer and
fall for glampers to explore and adore.
The Dome at Our Farm
Strasburg
airbnb.com/
rooms/31389726?source_impression_
id=p3_1578086211_3mySjV9uz5qHA7kt
Over 800 sqft with an 8 ft tall ceiling at the
middle. Equipped with a zipper door and a lock
and a canvas cover with windows and screens
featuring a large bay window with views of
Little North Mountain and a view of the farm.
There is a solar exhaust fan, wooden floors
and queen bed with linens and casual seating.
5
Camp Shenandoah Meadows PRIMITIVE No electricity or running water and no WIFI.
443 Meadow View Lane, Fort Valley
540-933-6650
CAMP SITES Solar-powered and battery-powered lights
are provided.
ShenandoahMeadows.net 8
Duncan Knob Hollow
A 40 acre, group friendly, recreational Several multi-tent camping sites are
facility adjacent to the George accessible via Duncan Knob Hollow
Washington National Forest within Fort trail during the winter and late spring
Valley. Convenient access to several months. Located near Camp Roosevelt in
trailheads throughout the National Forest. Fort Valley.
GPS COORDINATES: 38.69127, -78.58014
6
Shenandoah Valley
Family Campground 9
Kepler Overlook
168 Industrial Park Road, Mt Jackson There are several campsites with perfect
540-477-3080 spots for car-camping and several large
ShenandoahFamilyCampground.com camp sites on the banks of Cedar Creek.
Family owned and operated, Americans Directions: A 6.6 mile hike with the
with Disabilities Act (ADA) campground trailhead located off Van Buren Road west
located less than 1 mile from I-81 of Maurertown.
featuring tent sites, RV sites and GPS COORDINATES: 38.97137, -78.56316
cabins. Open year-round. Free WIFI and
satellite TV, on-site swimming pool and 10
Tuscarora Trail off Little
camp store. Sluice Mountain HORSE & MULE CAMPGROUNDS
Extensive hiking is required to get to this
7
Wolf Gap Recreation Area camp site. It is located 50 yards from the 11
Fort Valley Ranch
This site offers 9 camp sites with access lookout of the Little Sluice Trail on the 540-933-6633
to drinking water and vault toilets. Wolf White Rocks Trail. Great views of White fortvalleystable.com
Gap Recreation Area is also the starting Rocks vistas. 24 hour advance reservation required. All rates are for 2 Adults and 2 Children under
point for several popular hikes including Directions: The trailhead is located off 18, 1 vehicle, and 1 horse trailer. Extra person: $5/night. Sites range from primitive
Big Schloss and Tibbet Knob. Johnstown Road near Zepp. to sites with water and sewer. Visit website for pricing. Primitive Sites-wooded or
GPS COORDINATES: 38.92404, -78.68949
GPS COORDINATES: 38.93246, -78.61782 field (no hook ups).
14 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 15
T
he Shenandoah River is one of the few rivers that flow from
PUBLIC RIVER
south to north. Clear water, pleasant scenery, and abundant
wildlife make the North Fork through Shenandoah County
a paddler’s dream. However, low flows during the summer
ACCESS months often require canoeists to walk their boats through shallow
areas. The scenery is excellent for the entirety of the river’s course,
including great views of Massanutten Mountain. The primary
navigational hazards on the river are five dams and several low water
bridges which can be found on the map.
Please Note: Most of the land adjacent to the North Fork of the Shenandoah River
is privately-owned. You may enter and exit the river ONLY at public access sites.
Following is a list of public river access locations:
More information please visit
visitshenandoahcounty.com/play/outdoor-
sports-recreation/public-river-access/
1
North Fork at New Market 3
Route 698/Red Banks Road
No boat ramp, hand-launch only. Good No boat ramp. Located on a small gravel
for swimming and wading. The parking pull-off north of Mount Jackson where
for this access is at the corner of New the road runs alongside the river.
Market Depot Rd and Plains Mill Road GPS COORDINATES: 38.745904, -78.638616
Follow the path under the bridge to
the river. 4
Chapman’s Landing
GPS COORDINATES: 38.651778, -78.697750 Public concrete boat ramp. Access along
Rt. 672 just off Rt. 11, two miles north
2
Meems Bottom Bridge of Edinburg. There is plenty of parking
Located just south of Mount Jackson in a flat gravel lot. Excellent fishing for
off Wissler Road, this site features a smallmouth bass and panfish. PLEASE
trail down to the river making it easy NOTE: There is no public access between
to carry canoes and kayaks. Parking is Chapman’s Landing and Chapman’s Dam,
available and it is a convenient place to located downstream from here. It is not
put in canoes. It is about a 10 mile float legal or safe to portage at Chapman’s
to Swan Road in Edinburg, which is a Dam, but it is easy to paddle back to
long float if the river is low, so plan your Chapman’s Landing to take-out.
time accordingly. GPS COORDINATES: 38.844796, -78.531375
GPS COORDINATES: 38.720831, -78.655139
16 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 17
To learn more about put-ins and take-outs, visit:
virginiarivers.org/index.php/shenandoah-river or theswimguide.org
5
Seven Bends State Park/Hollingsworth Road 7
Seven Bends State Park/Lupton Road
Cement Board Ramp. From Woodstock, follow Reservoir Road (Rt. 42) east past Cement Boat Ramp. From Woodstock, follow Reservoir Road (Rt. 42) east past Rt. 11.
Rt. 11 and turn right onto South Hollingsworth Road Cross the low water bridge Turn left on Water St then turn right on Hollingsworth Road to Lupton Road. Put-in
and turn left following signs past Muse Vineyards to Seven Bends State Park. at the low water bridge at the end of Lupton Road This is an ideal take out for those
GPS COORDINATES: 38.8546819, -78.4915435 putting in at the Hollingsworth side of Seven Bends State Park.
GPS COORDINATES: 38.871601, -78.492868
6
Strasburg Town Park
295 Park Road, Strasburg
8
Deer Rapids Road
Concrete boat launch suitable for canoes, kayaks and very shallow aluminum No boat ramp. This low water bridge with roadside parking provides an easy put-in or
boats. This is one of the most family/kid friendly accesses in the Shenandoah take-out via a gravel boat ramp. This is a great launch point for a float to the Strasburg
Valley. There is a huge gravel parking lot with port-a-johns next to the river. This Town Park 5.6 miles downstream and a very scenic float. There is no way to float to
is also an excellent place for redbreast sunfish and smallmouth bass fishing. this access point from upstream unless you have permission to access upstream at a
Many boaters use this takeout after floating about 5.6 miles from the Deer private location. Located off Funk Road.
Rapids Bridge access point. GPS COORDINATES: 38.954316, -78.375538
GPS COORDINATES: 38.973370, -78.351313
18 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 19T
he Shenandoah River winds its way back and forth over
72 miles through Shenandoah County. Bedrock ledges create
a unique fish habitat lending itself for great angling. The
North Fork is a relatively narrow, shallow river and is easily
accessible for wade angling. Excessive nutrients in the watershed
promote the growth of algae and aquatic plant vegetation that can
become very dense during the summer and fall months and may
impede fishing and boating.
Shenandoah County also has over 31 miles of trout streams within
the George Washington National Forest. Stocked trout areas include
Passage Creek, Peters Mill Creek and Tomahawk Pond.
FISHING Fishing in Shenandoah County is permitted in accordance with state
regulations. When on National Forest land, a state fishing license is
HUNTING
required as well as a National Forest Stamp and, when in season,
a Trout Stamp. For specific information about state licenses
and regulations, contact the Virginia Department of Game and
Inland Fisheries at dgif.virginia.gov/fishing. A state fishing
license and appropriate stamps may be purchased at many of
the local stores in or near the Lee Ranger District. See page 26
for a list of places to purchase licenses and stamps.
BIRD WATCHING Online fishing reports are available at
murraysflyshop.com/virginia-fly-fishing-report
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Murray’s Fly Shop Orndorff’s Rainbow
121 Main Street, Edinburg Trout Farm
540-984-4212 5140 Zepp Road, Maurertown
murraysflyshop.com 540-436-3384
This unique fly fishing specialty shop is Open March-September
one of the largest and most complete Saturday and Sunday
angling shops on the East Coast. Harry 8:00am-5:00pm
Murray, author of many books about
fishing in the region, offers classes and
guide services (reservations required).
20 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 21HUNTING
Shenandoah County is home to more than 80,000 acres of
the George Washington National Forest offering prime hunting
opportunities for deer, turkey, duck and bear.
Hunting in Shenandoah County is permitted in accordance with
state regulations. When on National Forest lands, a state license is
required along with a National Forest Stamp. The National Forest has
jagged and uneven boundaries within Shenandoah County and there
are areas of private property entirely surrounded by National Forest
land. Please use a current National Forest map when hunting and
camping along trails to be sure that you remain on government
land. Maps are available at the local Lee Ranger District Office or
by mail. Please respect the rights of property owners and do not
trespass on their land or shoot in the direction of their property For more information including trail maps visit
when hunting. Be sure to get permission from landowners before dgif.virginia.gov/vbwt
crossing private property to gain access to the National Forest.
For specific information about state licenses, stamps and
regulations, contact: Virginia Department of Game and Inland
Fisheries dgif.virginia.gov. A hunting license and stamp may
be purchased at many of the local stores in or near the Lee
BIRDWATCHING
Ranger District. VIRGINIA BIRDING AND
WILDLIFE TRAIL
Mountain Loop: opportunities from a scenic highway
Shenandoah County Park or by boat from the Shenandoah River
380 Park Lane, Maurertown itself. The last part of this loop can be
65.5 acres of mixed woods and fields done completely by canoe or kayak,
hosting numerous woodland birds, but please remember to respect local
including: indigo bunting, American landowner’s private property as you
robin, chipping sparrow, fish crow, enjoy the abundant wildlife along
Carolina chickadee, tufted titmouse, the river.
Carolina wren, blue jay, northern
cardinal, eastern towhee, eastern tiger Lost Shoe Loop: Virginia
swallows and red-banded hairstreaks. Museum of the Civil War
The mixed deciduous forest also hosts 8895 George Collins Pkwy, New Market
several less obvious finds such as white 866-515-1864
bird’s nest fungus, minute cones filled vmi.edu/vmcw
with small white spores resembling In May of 1864 Union and Confederate
eggs in a bird’s nest. Common whitetail soldiers clashed on the edge of New
dragonflies may also be spotted in the Market. The name of this loop trail is
neighboring fields. derived from the fact that during the
battle many soldiers lost their shoes
Daughter of the Stars Loop: in the cornfield’s deep, sticky mud.
Camp Roosevelt Today, the cool, clear waters of the
Aptly named for the Native American North Fork of the Shenandoah are
legend describing the creation of the nearby with attendant herons and wood
Shenandoah River and Valley as the ducks, painted turtles and damselflies.
place where “the morning stars placed Local brush land and pastures host
the brightest jewels from their crowns incandescent indigo buntings and flocks
in the river.” Several sites on this loop of synchronized blackbirds that may
offer access to the wildlife viewing cloud the horizon.
22 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 23OHV TRAILS
T
he Lee Ranger District in Shenandoah County is home to the
largest OHV complex on public lands in the state of Virginia.
Off-highway vehicles (OHVs) include four-wheel drive vehicles,
motorcycles, motorbikes, and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).
Lee Ranger District Motorized Trails
Peters Mill Run and Taskers Gap trails provide outdoor adventures
you will never forget. Zip along this rugged trail system with
exciting twists and turns. This is an excursion that is sure to leave
you energized and wanting to come back for more!
This OHV trail system is closed to all motorized use beginning
in late January through late March for resource protection on
the trails during times of freezing and thawing. For additional
information call the Lee District office at 540-984-4101.
More information please visit
visitshenandoahcounty.com/play/outdoor-
sports-recreation/ohv-trails/
PLEASE NOTE:
• Permits are required and can • Hunters are allowed to ride on a
be purchased at the Lee Ranger motorized OHV trail to campsites
District Office or several local along the trail. Weapons may be
convenience stores. (see list of transported on an ATV, but they
purchase locations on page 26) must be unloaded. Hunters are not
permitted to use ATVs anywhere
• All riders must wear a helmet at
else in the National Forest.
all times.
• Tread lightly: Remember that
• Riders must stay on “V” blazed
improper handling of vehicles can
trails and be respectful of resources
damage these lands. All drivers
and neighboring residences.
must assume responsibility
• Unlicensed vehicles are not for proper off-highway vehicle
permitted on developed roads. operation so others may continue to
• Riding double is not permitted enjoy the beauty of the forest.
• Alcohol is not permitted on • The land surrounding the OHV trail
the trails is off-limits. Riders must stay on
the trails at all times. Riding up
• OHV Trails are open to all trail hillsides, riding on non-motorized
users including hikers, bikers, trails, riding on un-blazed forest
equestrians, etc. Please exercise roads (whether or not the road
proper etiquette and caution. is closed by a locked gate) and
• Please shut off engines and remove riding on county and forest roads is
helmets when encountering prohibited and subject to a fine.
equestrians.
24 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 25Trail Maps
Trail maps are available
for download at
fs.usda.gov/Internet/
FSE_DOCUMENTS/
fsbdev3_000235.pdf
GPS COORDINATES FOR OHV TRAILS
If heading east on Rt. 675 from Edinburg towards Fort Valley, Tasker’s
Gap ATV Complex is on your right and Peters Mill Run is on your left.
1
South Peters Mill Run Trailhead - 38.789389, -78.518889
2
North Peters Mill Run Trailhead - 38.874, -78.439917
3
Edinburg Gap Trailhead - 38.788639, -78.439917
4
Taskers Gap Trailhead - 38.765472, -78.513667
5
Wagon Road Trailhead - 38.867611, -78.443528
SPECIAL NOTE: Woodstock Tower Road is not accessible to trailers, motor homes
or RVs due to sharp curves and steep grades. This road is also closed when weather
conditions warrant.
PERMITS REQUIRED
Permits may be purchased at the following locations:
Big Apple Amoco Family Convenience Store
403 N. Main Street, Edinburg 401 Stoney Creek Boulevard, Edinburg
Mon-Sat 4:30am-10:00pm Mon-Fri 7:30am-9:00pm
Sun 6:00am-10:00pm Sat-Sun 8:00am-9:00pm
Bo’s Xpress/Shell Station Grasshoppers Lawn Care
60 Stoney Creek Road, Edinburg and Repair
Open 24 Hours 18719 Old Valley Pike, Edinburg
Mon-Fri 8:00am-6:00pm
Cook’s Exxon Inc
Sat 8:00am-2:00pm
446 W. Reservoir Road, Woodstock
Open 24 Hours (Closed Christmas)
By Mail Order forms can be downloaded online at
fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fsbdev3_000197.pdf
26 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 27BALLOONING Woodstock Hang
Gliding Site
The Shenandoah Valley may be known GPS COORDINATES: 38.871959, -78.447548
for its outstanding scenery but nothing fs.usda.gov/recarea/
beats the views as you float through the gwj/recreation/hiking/
sky in a hot air balloon with dawn or recarea/?recid=74045&actid=50
dusk flights available. Located off Woodstock Tower Road,
this challenging site offers spectacular
D&D Ballooning views of the Seven Bends of the
540-335-3766 Shenandoah River and lush farmland
ddballooning.com below. There is a gravel parking area
Seasonal Hot Air Balloon tours of the just before the parking lot for the
Shenandoah Valley. Call ahead for Woodstock Tower Trail.
reservations. SPECIAL NOTE: Woodstock Tower
Road is not accessible to trailers, motor
Valley Ballooning
AERIAL SPORT
homes or RVs due to sharp curves and
540-975-0192 steep grades. This road is also closed
S
valleyballooning.com when weather conditions warrant.
Valley Ballooning is located in
Woodstock, VA and offers flights from
the heart of the beautiful Shenandoah
Valley. Flying over the Shenandoah
is truly rewarding and offers
SKY DIVING
spectacular views. Skydive Shenandoah
57 River Road, New Market
540-740-9312
skydiveshenandoah.com
HANG GLIDING Open March–November
Reservations are recommended
& PARAGLIDING
Experience the thrill of flying!
Shenandoah County is proud to be
home to some of the best hang gliding ZIPLINE
and paragliding sites in the Mid-
Atlantic Region. Please note, you must
ADVENTURE
travel with your own equipment. Bryce Resort
1982 Fairway Drive, Basye
Capital Hang Gliding & 540-856-2121
Paragliding Association bryceresort.com/zipline-adventure
vicepres@chgpa.org Soar high over the trees and slopes
chgpa.org of Bryce Resort on the recently
Tandem flying is available by re-designed Bryce Resort Zipline
appointment. Adventure. Criss-crossing the
mountainside on 10 different lines,
Edith’s Gap Launch Site the Zipline Adventure cruises above
GPS COORDINATES: 38.725306, -78.507861 chairlifts over 80 feet off the ground.
fs.usda.gov/recarea/ Try to enjoy the view as you fly by at
gwj/recreation/hiking/ almost 40 miles per hour.
recarea/?recid=80490&actid=50
Perched high on the southeastern slope
of the Massanutten Mountain Ridge,
gliders can enjoy a bird’s eye view of
Page County, The South Fork of the
Shenandoah River, and the Shenandoah
Valley. Located off Rt. 675 near
Camp Roosevelt.
28 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 29GOLF
Bryce Resort
1982 Fairway Drive, Basye
800-821-1444
bryceresort.com
18 hole championship course offering stunning mountain views, tree lined fairways,
a tricky creek winding its way across the links. This course offers a challenge
to golfers of all levels, especially beginners using the PGA Family Tees. Open
year round.
Shenvalee
GOLF
9660 Fairway Drive, New Market
888-339-3181
L F
shenvalee.com
DI S C G O Featuring a 27-hole PGA golf course with beautifully maintained grounds. Originally
opened in 1927, every 18 hole round takes you through two courses with up to six
different combinations including the Miller Course, Olde Course and Creek Course.
Fling golf also available on site as well as restaurant and accommodations.
DISC GOLF
Bryce Resort
1982 Fairway Drive, Basye
800-821-1444
bryceresort.com
This unique 9 hole course starts with a lift ride to the top of the mountain.
Play your way back to the base. Open April – September.
Shenandoah County Park
380 Park Lane, Maurertown
540-459-6777
shenandoahcountyva.us/parks/locations/shenandoah-county-park/
This park has nature trails, an 18-hole disc golf course, sand volleyball courts,
tennis and basketball courts, baseball and softball fields, picnic shelters with grills,
and open meadows. The Tuscarora Trail passes through the park as it connects the
Appalachian Trail with other state trails.
Swover Creek Farms
4176 Swover Creek Road, Edinburg
540-984-8973
swovercreekfarms.com
Beginner to expert courses in beautiful country setting. This 18 hole course is
on the site of a farm craft brewery and restaurant. Play a round of golf and relax
over a pint and a delicious wood-fired pizza featuring farm fresh ingredients or a
homemade pretzel roll. Pet friendly.
30 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 31Bryce Resort
1982 Fairway Drive, Basye
800-821-1444 | 540-856-2121
bryceresort.com
ICE SKATING
A perfect way to compliment your stay at Bryce Resort. Skate rentals available on site
or bring your own. Tickets are good for 1 hour of access to the rink.
SKIING AND
WINTER SPORTS SNOWBOARDING
Bryce Resort offers 8 unique trails and
AT BRYCE RESORT
5 lifts (including a high speed quad lift),
top rated ski and snowboard school and
fantastic racing programs.
SNOWSHOEING
WITH REV3 ADVENTURES
Rev3endurance.com
Enjoy winter sunset snowshoe excursions on the mountain at Bryce Resort. Guided
trips take approximately 1-1.5 hours. Tickets include all the necessary gear such as
snowshoes and headlamps and free hot chocolate or drink at the Copper Kettle upon
completion. Sunday evenings, January-February.
32 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 33STAR TANNERY EXIT
298
STRASBURG EXIT
296
HIKING, BIKING, AND HORSEBACK RIDING 6 3
2,5, 7
6,8 13
1
Massanutten Trail 21
Bryce Mountain Bike Park 81
2
Signal Knob 22 Stack Rock Trail
15 3 9, 10,
11
3
Strasburg River Walk 23
Kepler Overlook 8
4
Sulpher Springs Gap Trail 24
Little North Mountain
11
5
Meneka Peak 25
Little Schloss
EXIT
6
Mudhole Mountain 26 Laurel Run
291
14
7
Buzzard Rock North 27
Duncan Knob Hollow
TOMS
Tuscarora/Bear Wallow Trail 28 Kennedy Peak Hike/ 12
8
BROOK
9
Charcoal Trail Stephens Trail
24
10
Pig Iron Trail
29
Kerns Mountain 9 MAURERTOWN
30
30 Veach Gap
11
Sherman Gap Trail
12
Little Passage Creek
31
Lake Laura FORT
VALLEY
13
Buzzard Rock
32
Lion’s Tale Trail 2,
5
4
14 Three Top Mountain
33
Massanutten Storybook Trail 23
1
4
34 Bird Knob Trail & Emerald Pond
15
Tuscarora/Little North Mountain 16
16 Woodstock Tower
35
Discovery Way Trail
17
Little Sluice
36
Strickler Knob 7 SEVEN BENDS
STATE PARK
17
18
Big Schloss/Mill Mountain
37
Wildflower Trail WOODSTOCK 5
38 Fort Valley Ranch
EXIT
19
Tibbet Knob 283
5
20 Falls Ridge Hike
10
25 4
CAMPING
1
Camp Roosevelt 9
Kepler Overlook
7 42
2
Creekside Campground 10
Tuscarora Trail 18 19 3
3
Elizabeth Furnace Recreation Area off Little Sluice 1
Mountain EXIT 2
4
Little Fort 279
11
Fort Valley EDINBURG 38
5
Camp Shenandoah Meadows Ranch
4
11
FORT VALLEY
RANCH
6
Shenandoah Valley 26 22 1
Family Campground EXIT
277
7
Wolf Gap Recreation Area 20
8
Duncan Knob Hollow
32 27,
81 28
PUBLIC RIVER ACCESS
1
North Fork at New Market
2
Meems Bottom Bridge 42 EXIT
273
29
3
Route 698/Red Banks Road MOUNT
3
4
Chapman’s Landing JACKSON
5
Seven Bends State Park/Hollingsworth Road 21
6
Strasburg Town Park BRYCE
RESORT
7
Seven Bends State Park/Lupton Road BASYE 2
11
8
Deer Rapids Road 31
6
EXIT
QUICKSBURG 269
LAKE LAURA 33, 34,
OFF HIGHWAY VEHICLES (OHV) 42
35, 36,
37
1
South Peters Mill Run Trailhead ORKNEY
SPRINGS
2
North Peters Mill Run Trailhead
3
Edinburg Gap Trailhead
4
Taskers Gap Trailhead NEW MARKET
EXIT
5
Wagon Road Trailhead NEW MARKET 1
264
42 AIRPORT
8GUIDE TO OUTDOOR RECREATION
USEFUL TIPS
Here are some helpful tips to consider when embarking on our
trails and exploring Shenandoah County to enjoy a safe and
fun experience:
• Cell phone service may be limited in remote areas of the
LEAVE NO
George Washington National Forest and other parts of the
county.
• Bring plenty of food and water. Dehydration may occur
TRACE
during any season.
• Weather conditions can change quickly and without
warning in the mountains. Check the latest forecast,
monitor updates, and be prepared for all possible weather
conditions.
• Do not litter and leave no trace. Please dispose of any trash,
leftover food, etc. in proper receptacles or take it with you
upon leaving trails and National Forest land. RESPECT THIS LAND
• Leave rocks, trees and other natural objects as you find
so that future generations
them so that others may enjoy them in the future. may enjoy it also
• Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages their health,
alters natural behaviors, and exposes them to predators and
other dangers. back cover
Shenandoah County is home to a number of
geocache sites. To see a complete list visit
geocaching.com
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