Difference between revisions of "Shenandoah National Park" - New World Encyclopedia

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{{Infobox_protected_area | name = Shenandoah National Park
 
{{Infobox_protected_area | name = Shenandoah National Park
 
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| location = [[Virginia]], [[United States|USA]]
 
| location = [[Virginia]], [[United States|USA]]
 
| nearest_city = [[Waynesboro, Virginia|Waynesboro]]
 
| nearest_city = [[Waynesboro, Virginia|Waynesboro]]
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| lat_degrees = 38
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| lat_minutes = 32
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| lat_direction = N
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| area = 199,017 acres (805 km²)
 
| area = 199,017 acres (805 km²)
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| established = [[December 26]], [[1935]]
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| established = December 26, 1935
 
| visitation_num = 1,076,150
 
| visitation_num = 1,076,150
 
| visitation_year = 2006
 
| visitation_year = 2006
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'''Shenandoah National Park''' encompasses part of the [[Blue Ridge Mountains]] in the [[U.S. state]] of [[Virginia]]. This [[national park]] is long and narrow, with the broad [[Shenandoah River]] and valley on the west side, and the rolling hills of the Virginia Piedmont on the east. Almost 40 % of the land area (79,579 acres/322 km²) has been designated as [[Wilderness]] and is protected as part of the [[National Wilderness Preservation System]]. The highest peak is [[Hawksbill Mountain]] at 4,051 feet (1,235 m).
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'''Shenandoah National Park''' is a beautiful historic national treasure that covers the crest of the [[Blue Ridge Mountains]] for more than 75 miles in the northern part of the [[U.S.]] state of [[Virginia]]. A preserve of 311 square miles (805 square km), this [[national park]], known for its inspiring panoramic views,  is long and narrow, with the broad [[Shenandoah River]] and valley on the west side, and the rolling hills of the Virginia Piedmont on the east. Almost 40 percent of the land area (79,579 acres/322 km²) has been designated as [[Wilderness]] and is protected as part of the [[National Wilderness Preservation System]]. The park attracts more than 2 million visitors a year and has 500 miles of hiking trails including 45 miles of the popular [[Appalachian Trail]]. The highest peak is [[Hawksbill Mountain]] at 4,051 feet (1,235 m). The name “Shenandoah” is a [[Native American]] word meaning “Daughter of the Stars.”
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{{toc}}
  
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==History==
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==Geography==
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[[Image:Skyline_drive_20050521_123518_2.jpg|thumb|left|275px|[[Skyline Drive]]]]
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[[Image:Shenandoah nps map.png|thumb|right|200px|Detailed map of Shenandoah National Park]]
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Authorized in 1926 and established in 1935, Shenandoah National Park is a preserve of 311 square miles (805 square km) in the northern [[Virginia]] [[Blue Ridge Mountains|Blue Ridge]] section of the [[Appalachian Mountains]]. The famous [[Skyline Drive]], which runs north to south for the length of the park, is known for some of the most fantastic views in the eastern U.S. and is a common get–away for an afternoon drive, especially in the autumn.
  
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Shenandoah was authorized in [[1926]] and fully established on [[December 26]], [[1935]]. Prior to being a park, much of the area was farmland and there are still remnants of old farms in several places. The state of Virginia slowly acquired the land by Virginia [[eminent domain]] (terms: "condemnation" in US or "compulsory purchase" in UK) laws and procedures<ref>http://www.vahistory.org/shenandoah.html#ch3</ref> from landowners and then gave it to the U.S. Government provided it would be designated a National Park.  
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The park is divided into three sections; (northern) from Front Royal to Thornton Gap, (central) from Thornton Gap to Swift Run Gap, and (southern) from Swift Run Gap to Rockfish Gap. Each of these sections is divided by a highway. South of Rockfish Gap, Skyline Drive meets the [[Blue Ridge Parkway]], which is part of the [[Appalachian Mountains]] and runs to the [[Smoky Mountain National Park]].
  
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In the creation of the park and [[Skyline Drive]], a number of families and entire communities were required to vacate portions of the [[Blue Ridge Mountains]]. Many residents in the 500 homes in eight affected counties of Virginia were vehemently opposed to losing their homes and communities. Most of the families removed came from [[Madison County, Virginia|Madison County]], [[Page County, Virginia|Page County]], and [[Rappahannock County, Virginia|Rappahannock County]].  
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===Flora and Fauna===
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There are four distinct seasons in the park making it an exciting place to visit any time of the year. The area is best known for its rich red foliage that begins in September and peaks in mid- to late October. Spring brings an abundance of wildflowers in April, while the leaves on the trees come out in May.
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[[Image:shenandoah_deer_20050521_191017_1.3008x2000.jpg|thumb|250px|left|Deer at Tanner Ridge Overlook.]]
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On southwestern faces of some of the southernmost hillsides, pine predominates and there is the occasional [[prickly pear]] [[cactus]], which grows naturally. In contrast, some of the northeastern aspects are most likely to have small but dense stands of moisture-loving [[Eastern Hemlock|hemlock]]s and [[moss]]es in abundance. Other commonly found plants include [[oak]], [[hickory]], [[chestnut]], [[maple]], [[tulip poplar]], [[mountain laurel]], [[milkweed]], [[daisy|daisies]], [[jack-in-the-pulpit]]s, [[lady slipper]] orchids, rose [[azalea]]s, and many species of [[fern]]s.  
  
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[[Image:Shenandoah nps map.png|thumb|right|225px|Detailed map of Shenandoah National Park]]
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The once predominant [[American Chestnut]] tree was effectively brought to extinction in the Park by a [[fungus]] known as the [[Chestnut blight]] during the 1930s &ndash; though the tree continues to grow in the park, it does not reach maturity and dies back before it can reproduce. Various species of [[oak]]s superseded the [[chestnut]]s and became the dominant tree species. [[Gypsy moth]] infestations beginning in the early 1990s began to erode the dominance of the oak forests as the moths would primarily consume their leaves. Though the [[moth]]s are not as prevelant as they once were, they continue to affect the forest and have destroyed almost 10 percent of the oak groves.
  
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The development of the park and the construction of Skyline Drive created badly needed jobs for many Virginians during the [[Great Depression]]. Nearly 90% of the inhabitants worked the land for a living. Many worked in the apple orchards in the valley and in areas near the eastern slopes. The work to create the National Park and Skyline Drive began following a terrible drought in 1930 which destroyed the crops of many families in the area who farmed in the mountainous terrain, as well as many of the apple orchards where they worked picking crops. Nevertheless, it remains a fact that they were displaced, often against their will, and even for a very few who managed to stay, their communities were lost. A little-known fact is that, while some families were removed by force, a few others (who mostly had also become difficult to deal with) were allowed to stay after their properties were acquired, living in the park until nature took its course and they gradually died. The last to die was Annie Lee Bradley Shenk who died in [[1979]] at age 92. Most of the people displaced left their homes quietly. According to the [[Virginia Historical Society]], eighty-five-year-old Hezekiah Lam explained, "I ain't so crazy about leavin' these hills but I never believed in bein' ag'in (against) the Government. I signed everythin' they asked me." [http://www.vahistory.org/shenandoah.html] The lost communities and homes were a price paid for one of the country's most beautiful National Parks and scenic roadways.
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* Mammals include Whitetailed [[deer]], [[American Black Bear|black bear]], [[bobcat]], [[raccoon]], [[skunk]], [[opossum]], [[groundhog]], [[gray fox]], gray squirrel, and eastern cottontail [[rabbit]]. There are beliived to be [[mountain lion]]s in remote areas of the park.  
  
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In the early 1930s, the National Park Service began planning the park facilities and envisioned separate provisions for "colored guests," as African Americans were described in contemporaneous government documents. At that time, in [[Jim Crow]] Virginia, racial segregation was the order of the day. In its transfer of the parkland to the federal government, Virginia initially attempted to ban African Americans entirely from the park, but settled for enforcing its segregation laws in the park's facilities. [[Image:Shenandoah in Winter.jpg|thumb|left|300px|Mount Marshall and Hogsback Mountain covered in clouds in winter.]]
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* Over 200 species of [[bird]]s make their home in the park for at least part of the year. About 30 live in the park year-round, including [[barred owl]]s, [[Carolina chickadee]]s, [[Red-tailed Hawk]]s, and wild [[turkey]]s. The [[Peregrine Falcon]] was reintroduced into the park in the mid 1990s and by the end of the twentieth century numerous nesting pairs had formed.
  
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By the Thirties, there were several concessions operated by private firms within the park, some going back to the late 19th Century.  These early private facilities at [[Skyland Resort]], [[Panorama Resort]], and [[Swift Run Gap]], of course, were operated only for whites.  By 1937, the Park Service accepted a bid from Virginia Sky-Line Company to take over the existing facilities and add new lodges, cabins, and other amenities, including [[Big Meadows Lodge]]. Under their plan, all the sites in the parks, save one, were for "Whites Only." Their plan included a separate facility for African Americans at Lewis Mountain — a picnic ground, a smaller lodge, cabins and a campground. The site opened in 1939, and it was substantially inferior to the other park facilities.  By then, however, the Interior Department was increasingly anxious to eliminate segregation from all parks.  Pinnacles picnic ground was selected to be the initial integrated site in the Shenandoah, but Sky-Line continued to balk, and distributed maps showing Lewis Mountain as the only site for African Americans.  During World War II, concessions closed and park usage plunged. But once the War ended, in December 1945, the NPS mandated that all concessions in all national parks were to be desegregated. In October 1947 the dining rooms of Lewis Mountain and Panarama were integrated and by early 1950, the mandate was fully accomplished.
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* Thirty-two species of [[fish]] have been documented in the park, including [[brook trout]], [[longnose dance|longnose]] and [[blacknose dance]], and the [[bluehead chub]].
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Since 1977, nearly half of the [[Green Springs National Historic Landmark District]], a nearby area affiliated with Shenandoah National Park, has been protected by preservation easements held by the National Park Service.
 
  
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==Attractions==
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Seventy-four rare species and community types have been recorded in the park. According to the [http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/ Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation] ''“The significant number of natural heritage resources in Shenandoah National Park is testimony to its rich biodiversity. The park’s large area, range of elevations, varied topography, and assemblage of substrates provide diverse conditions suitable for more rare species and significant natural communities than any other Mid-Atlantic Region national park unit.”'' A few of the rare species recorded are the Shenandoah Salamander, birds such as the Winter Wren and Blackburnian Warbler, and plants and trees such as Blue Flag Iris, Speckled Alder, and the Leathery Grape-Fern.
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The park is best known for Skyline Drive, a 105 mile (169 km) road that runs the entire length of the park along the ridge of the mountains. The drive is particularly popular in the fall when the leaves are changing colors. 101 miles (162 km) of the [[Appalachian Trail]] are also in the park. In total, there are over 500 miles (800 km) of trails within the park. Of the trails, one of the most popular is [[Old Rag Mountain]], which offers a thrilling rock scramble and some of the most breathtaking views in Virginia. There is also [[horseback]] riding, camping, [[bicycling]], and many [[waterfall]]s. The Skyline Drive is designated as a [[National Scenic Byway]].
 
  
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[[Image:Skyline_view_2007.jpg|thumb|left|250px|Shenandoah National Park at one of its many scenic overlooks.]]
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===Climate===
  
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Lodges are located at [[Skyland Resort|Skyland]] and [[Big Meadows]]. The Park's [[Harry F. Byrd]] Visitor Center is also located at Big Meadows. Another visitor center is located at Dickey Ridge. Campgrounds are located at Mathews Arm, Big Meadows, Lewis Mountain, and Loft Mountain.
+
The climate of Shenandoah National Park is typical eastern mid-Atlantic woodland and only the highest points of the mountains show much change or alteration of typical flora and fauna species as might be found at sea level. The park has an average annual [[rain]]fall of 39 inches with thunderstorms that occur throughout the year. The winter [[snow]]fall is fairly modest with an average of 29 inches per year. Summer is the most popular time to visit the park with pleasant [[temperature]]s (Fahrenheit) averaging from the mid-40s to high 50s at night and low 70s to mid-80s during the day. It is usually 10 degrees warmer in the valley than in the mountain areas of the park.
  
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[[Rapidan Camp]], the restored historic (circa [[1931]]) presidential [[fishing]] retreat of [[Herbert Hoover]] on the [[Rapidan River]] is accessed by a 4.1-mile round-trip hike on Mill Prong Trail, which begins on the Skyline Drive at Milam Gap (Mile 52.8). The NPS also offers guided van trips that leave from the Byrd Center at Big Meadows.
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==Geology==
 +
Geologists believe the mountains that make up the Shenandoah National Park to be more than 1 billion years old—some of the most ancient in the world. Due to the forces of wind, water, frost, and ice for millions of years, the mountains have been worn away to a top elevation of 4,051 feet (1,235 m). These same forces continue to sculpt and define the breathtaking scenery of the Shenandoah National Park today. Visitors of the park can see the [[granite]] component of this ancient rock at Old Rag Mountain and Mary’s Rock Tunnel. Other rock types that can be seen in the park include [[basalt]]s, made from [[lava]] flows, and sedimentary rocks such as [[sandstone]], [[quartzite]], and [[phyllite]].
  
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Shenandoah National Park is one of the most dog-friendly in the national park system.  The campgrounds all allow dogs, and dogs are allowed on almost all of the trails including the Appalachian Trail, if kept on leash (6-feet or shorter) <ref>http://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/pets.htm Official SNP Pet Policy</ref>.
+
==History==
 +
[[Image:Skyline_drive_20050521_123518_2.jpg|thumb|left|275px|[[Skyline Drive]]]]
  
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==Ecology==
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Around 8,000-9,000 years ago, the first traces of humans were recorded on the land that would become the park. Native Americans made their homes there for centuries, living the lifestyle of [[hunter-gatherer]]s.
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[[Image:shenandoah_deer_20050521_191017_1.3008x2000.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Deer at Tanner Ridge Overlook.]]
 
  
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The climate of the park is typical eastern mid-Atlantic woodland and only the highest points of the mountains show much change or alteration of typical flora and fauna species as might be found at sea level. On southwestern faces of some of the southernmost hillsides pine predominates and there is also the occasional [[prickly pear]] [[cactus]] which grows naturally. In contrast, some of the northeastern aspects are most likely to have small but dense stands of moisture loving [[Eastern Hemlock|hemlock]]s and [[moss]]es in abundance. Other commonly found plants include [[oak]], [[hickory]], [[chestnut]], [[maple]], [[tulip poplar]], [[mountain laurel]], [[milkweed]], [[daisy|daisies]], and many species of [[fern]]s. The once predominant [[American Chestnut]] tree was effectively brought to extinction by a fungus known as the [[Chestnut blight]] during the 1930s &ndash; though the tree continues to grow in the park, it does not reach maturity and dies back before it can reproduce. Various species of [[Oak]]s superseded the [[Chestnut]]s and became the dominant tree species. [[Gypsy moth]] infestations beginning in the early 1990s began to erode the dominance of the [[oak]] forests as the moths would primarily consume the leaves of [[oak]] trees. Though the [[Gypsy moth]]s seem to have abated some, they continue to affect the forest and have destroyed almost 10 percent of the [[oak]] groves.
+
In the early 1700s, Europeans came to the area as hunters and trappers. By 1750, the first settlers moved into the lower hollows near springs and streams, and began cultivating the land for farming and grazing. Before long the [[mining]] of [[iron]], [[copper]], and [[manganese]] began.
  
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* Mammals include Whitetailed [[deer]], [[American Black Bear|black bear]], [[bobcat]], [[raccoon]], [[skunk]], [[opossum]], [[groundhog]], [[gray fox]], and eastern cottontail [[rabbit]]. Though unsubstantiated, there have some reported sightings of [[mountain lion]] in remote areas of the park.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}
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The state of Virginia slowly began acquiring the land from landowners, according to [[eminent domain]] laws, in order to transfer it to the U.S. Government—with the provision it would be designated a National Park. On May 22, 1926, [[Calvin Coolidge|President Coolidge]] signed into law a bill authorizing the creation of Shenandoah National Park. However, it wasn’t until December 26, 1935, nearly 10 years later, that the federal government officially accepted title to the land and the park was fully established.  
 +
[[Image:Shenandoah in Winter.jpg|thumb|275px|Mount Marshall and Hogsback Mountain covered in clouds in winter.]]
  
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* Over 200 species of birds make their home in the park for at least part of the year. About thirty live in the park year round, including [[barred owl]]s, [[Carolina chickadee]]s, [[Red-tailed Hawk]]s, and wild [[turkey]]s. The [[Peregrine Falcon]] was reintroduced into the park in the mid 1990s and by the end of the 20th century there were numerous nesting pairs in the park.
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During that time, the Summer White House was established by President Hoover on the Rapidan River. The construction of Skyline Drive began and the Civilian Conservation Corps was established and began work in the park area.  
  
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* Thirty-two species of fish have been documented in the park, including [[brook trout]], [[longnose dance|longnose]] and [[blacknose dance]], and the [[bluehead chub]].
+
In the creation of the park and [[Skyline Drive]], over 500 families and entire communities were forced to relocate. However, the development of the park and the construction of Skyline Drive created badly needed jobs for many Virginians during the [[Great Depression]]. At that time, nearly 90 percent of the inhabitants worked the land for a living, many in the apple orchards in the valley and in areas near the eastern slopes. A 1930 drought destroyed the crops of many families in the area. The work to create the National Park and Skyline Drive began following this drought.
 +
 
 +
Since 1977, nearly half of the [[Green Springs National Historic Landmark District]], a nearby area affiliated with Shenandoah National Park, has been protected by preservation easements held by the National Park Service.
  
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==Waterfalls==
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==Attractions==
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===Waterfalls===
 
{| border="0"
 
{| border="0"
 
|- valign="top"
 
|- valign="top"
Line 73: Line 81:
 
! Falls !! Height !! Location !! Description
 
! Falls !! Height !! Location !! Description
 
|-
 
|-
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| Overall Run || 93 ft (28 m) || Mile 21.1, parking lot just south of Hogback Overlook || The tallest waterfall in the park. 6.5 mile (10 km) round trip hike
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| Overall Run || 93 ft (28 m) || Mile 21.1, parking lot just south of Hogback Overlook || The tallest waterfall in the park. 6.5 mile (10 km) round-trip hike
 
|-
 
|-
 
| Whiteoak Canyon || 86 ft (28 m) || Mile 42.6, Whiteoak Canyon parking area || Whiteoak Canyon has a series of six waterfalls, the first (and tallest) is 86 feet (28 m).  Not all the falls are easily accessible from the trail.
 
| Whiteoak Canyon || 86 ft (28 m) || Mile 42.6, Whiteoak Canyon parking area || Whiteoak Canyon has a series of six waterfalls, the first (and tallest) is 86 feet (28 m).  Not all the falls are easily accessible from the trail.
 
|-
 
|-
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| Cedar Run || 34 ft (10 m) || Mile 45.6,  Hawksbill Gap parking area || Difficult 3.4 mile (5 km) round trip hike
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| Cedar Run || 34 ft (10 m) || Mile 45.6,  Hawksbill Gap parking area || Difficult 3.4 mile (5 km) round-trip hike
 
|-
 
|-
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| Rose River || 67 ft (20 m) || Mile 49.4, parking at Fishers Gap Overlook || A 2.6 mile (4 km) round trip hike.  Can also be done as a longer loop hike.
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| Rose River || 67 ft (20 m) || Mile 49.4, parking at Fishers Gap Overlook || A 2.6 mile (4 km) round-trip hike.  Can also be done as a longer loop hike.
 
|-
 
|-
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| [[Dark Hollow Falls]] || 70 ft (21 m) || Mile 50.7, Dark Hollow Falls parking area || 1.4 mile (2 km) round trip hike. The closest waterfall to [[Skyline Drive]] and the most popular.  No pets allowed on this trail.
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| [[Dark Hollow Falls]] || 70 ft (21 m) || Mile 50.7, Dark Hollow Falls parking area || 1.4 mile (2 km) round-trip hike. The closest waterfall to [[Skyline Drive]] and the most popular.  No pets allowed on this trail.
 
|-
 
|-
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| Lewis Falls || 81 ft (25 m) || Mile 51.4, parking lot just south of Big Meadows, next to a service road || 2 mile (3 km) round trip hike.
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| Lewis Falls || 81 ft (25 m) || Mile 51.4, parking lot just south of Big Meadows, next to a service road || 2 mile (3 km) round-trip hike.
 
|-
 
|-
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| South River Falls || 83 ft (25 m) || Mile 62.8, park at South River picnic area || 3.3 mile (5 km) loop hike to an overlook above the falls.  There is also a rocky, 1 mile (2 km) round trip spur trail that goes to the base of the falls.
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| South River Falls || 83 ft (25 m) || Mile 62.8, park at South River picnic area || 3.3 mile (5 km) loop hike to an overlook above the falls.  There is also a rocky, 1 mile (2 km) round-trip spur trail that goes to the base of the falls.
 
|-
 
|-
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| Doyles River Falls || 28 and 63 ft (9 and 19 m) || Mile 81.1, Doyles River parking area || A 3 mile (5 km) round trip hike to see both the upper and lower falls.  Be sure to go a little past the lower falls viewing spot for a better view.  Can also be turned into a 7.8 mile (13 km) loop trail that also goes by Jones Run Falls
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| Doyles River Falls || 28 and 63 ft (9 and 19 m) || Mile 81.1, Doyles River parking area || A 3 mile (5 km) round-trip hike to see both the upper and lower falls.  Be sure to go a little past the lower falls viewing spot for a better view.  Can also be turned into a 7.8 mile (13 km) loop trail that also goes by Jones Run Falls
 
|-
 
|-
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| Jones Run Falls || 42 ft (13 m) || Mile 84.1, Jones Run parking area || A 3.6 mile (6 km) round trip hike.  Can also be turned into a longer loop hike that goes by Doyles River upper and lower falls
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| Jones Run Falls || 42 ft (13 m) || Mile 84.1, Jones Run parking area || A 3.6 mile (6 km) round-trip hike.  Can also be turned into a longer loop hike that goes by Doyles River upper and lower falls
 
|}
 
|}
 
||
 
||
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[[image:Whiteoak_Canyon_Shenandoah_NP_Virginia.JPG|thumb|150px|right|Whiteoak Canyon]]
 
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[[image:rose_river_falls_20030906_145007_1.jpg|thumb|150px|right|Rose River Falls]]
 
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[[image:Shenandoah_-_south_river_falls.jpg|thumb|150px|right|South River Falls]]
 
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[[Image:Darkhollow2007.jpg|thumb|150px|right|Dark Hollow Falls]]
 
 
|}
 
|}
  
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==See also==
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<center><gallery>
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*[[National parks (United States)]]
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Image:Wildlife at skyline drive.jpg|A white-tailed deer
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*[[List of national parks]]
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</gallery></center>
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*[[Lost counties, cities and towns of Virginia]]
 
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*[[Skyland Resort]]
 
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*[[Big Meadows]]
 
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*[[Hawksbill Mountain]]
 
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*[[Old Rag Mountain]]
 
  
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==Foot Notes==
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The park is best known for Skyline Drive, a 105 mile (169 km) road that runs the entire length of the park along the ridge of the mountains connecting at the south end with the 469 mile (755 km) Blue Ridge Parkway. The drive is particularly popular in the autumn when the leaves are changing colors. Also in the park are 101 miles (162 km) of the [[Appalachian Trail]]. In total, there are over 500 miles (800 km) of trails within the park.  Of the trails, one of the most popular is [[Old Rag Mountain]], which offers a thrilling rock scramble and some of the most breathtaking views in Virginia. There is also [[horseback]] riding, camping, [[bicycling]], and spectacular [[waterfall]]s. The Skyline Drive is designated as a [[National Scenic Byway]].
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<references />
 
  
 +
=== Stony Man Trail ===
 +
This is one of the most scenic trails in the Skyline drive. It ends at a cliff and offers a beautiful [[overlook]].
  
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== Sources and Further reading ==
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=== Dark Hollow Falls Trail ===
 +
Dark Hollow Falls is another scenic trail of Skyline Drive and ends in [[waterfall]]s. The trail is at the edge of a stream, which enhances the enjoyment. [[Bird]]s, butterflies, [[deer]], and occasionally [[black bear]] and [[timber rattlesnake]] may be seen on this hike, but have not been known to harm any visitors.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
== References ==
 +
* ''Away.com''. [http://gorp.away.com/gorp/resource/us_national_park/va_shena.htm Shenandoah National Park] Retrieved November 20, 2007.
 +
* Blackley, Pat, and Chuck Blackley. 2003. ''Shenandoah National Park impressions''. Helena, MT: Farcounty Press. ISBN 1560372303 and ISBN 9781560372301
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* Butcher, Russell D., and Lynn P. Whitaker. 1999. ''Guide to national parks. Northeast region''. NPCA national park guide series. Guilford, Conn: Globe Pequot Press. ISBN 0762705728 and ISBN 9780762705726
 +
* Manning, Russ, and Russ Manning. 2000. ''75 hikes in Virginia's Shenandoah National Park''. Seattle, WA: Mountaineers. ISBN 0898866359 and ISBN 9780898866353
 
* Radlauer, Ruth, Ed Radlauer, and Rolf Zillmer. 1982. ''Shenandoah National Park''. Parks for people. Chicago: Childrens Press. ISBN 0516077449 and ISBN 9780516077444  
 
* Radlauer, Ruth, Ed Radlauer, and Rolf Zillmer. 1982. ''Shenandoah National Park''. Parks for people. Chicago: Childrens Press. ISBN 0516077449 and ISBN 9780516077444  
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* Manning, Russ, and Russ Manning. 2000. ''75 hikes in Virginia's Shenandoah National Park''. Seattle, WA: Mountaineers. ISBN 0898866359 and ISBN 9780898866353
 
 
* Shelton, Napier. 1975. ''The nature of Shenandoah: a naturalist's story of a mountain park''. [Harpers Ferry, W. Va.]: Office of Publications, National Park Service, U.S. Dept. of the Interior.  
 
* Shelton, Napier. 1975. ''The nature of Shenandoah: a naturalist's story of a mountain park''. [Harpers Ferry, W. Va.]: Office of Publications, National Park Service, U.S. Dept. of the Interior.  
−
* Butcher, Russell D., and Lynn P. Whitaker. 1999. ''Guide to national parks. Northeast region''. NPCA national park guide series. Guilford, Conn: Globe Pequot Press. ISBN 0762705728 and ISBN 9780762705726
+
* Uhler, John William. Seasons of Shenandoah National Park ''Page Makers, LLC''.  
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* Blackley, Pat, and Chuck Blackley. 2003. ''Shenandoah National Park impressions''. Helena, MT: Farcounty Press. ISBN 1560372303 and ISBN 9781560372301
 
  
 
==External links==
 
==External links==
−
* ''National Park Service''. [http://www.nps.gov/shen/ Shenandoah]. Retrieved August 17, 2007.
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All links retrieved January 27, 2023.
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* ''National Park Service''. [http://www.nps.gov/shen/3b1d1.htm When Past is Present : Archaeology of the Displaced in Shenandoah National Park]. Retrieved August 17, 2007.
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*[http://www.nps.gov/shen/ Shenandoah].  
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* ''Earth Observatory''. [http://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/Newsroom/NewImages/images.php3?img_id=16293 Shenandoah National Park]. Retrieved August 17, 2007.
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* ''Earth Observatory''. [http://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/Newsroom/NewImages/images.php3?img_id=11275Shenandoah National Park, Virginia]. Retrieved August 17, 2007.
 
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* ''Virginia is for Lovers''. [http://www.virginia.org/site/description.asp?AttrID=10089&CharID=150777 Shenandoah National Park]. Retrieved August 17, 2007.
 
 
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Latest revision as of 19:57, 21 April 2023


Shenandoah National Park
IUCN Category II (National Park)
Shenandoah National Park
US Locator Blank.svg
Location: Virginia, USA
Nearest city: Waynesboro
Area: 199,017 acres (805 km²)
Established: December 26, 1935
Visitation: 1,076,150 (in 2006)
Governing body: National Park Service

Shenandoah National Park is a beautiful historic national treasure that covers the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains for more than 75 miles in the northern part of the U.S. state of Virginia. A preserve of 311 square miles (805 square km), this national park, known for its inspiring panoramic views, is long and narrow, with the broad Shenandoah River and valley on the west side, and the rolling hills of the Virginia Piedmont on the east. Almost 40 percent of the land area (79,579 acres/322 km²) has been designated as Wilderness and is protected as part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. The park attracts more than 2 million visitors a year and has 500 miles of hiking trails including 45 miles of the popular Appalachian Trail. The highest peak is Hawksbill Mountain at 4,051 feet (1,235 m). The name “Shenandoah” is a Native American word meaning “Daughter of the Stars.”

Geography

Detailed map of Shenandoah National Park

Authorized in 1926 and established in 1935, Shenandoah National Park is a preserve of 311 square miles (805 square km) in the northern Virginia Blue Ridge section of the Appalachian Mountains. The famous Skyline Drive, which runs north to south for the length of the park, is known for some of the most fantastic views in the eastern U.S. and is a common get–away for an afternoon drive, especially in the autumn.

The park is divided into three sections; (northern) from Front Royal to Thornton Gap, (central) from Thornton Gap to Swift Run Gap, and (southern) from Swift Run Gap to Rockfish Gap. Each of these sections is divided by a highway. South of Rockfish Gap, Skyline Drive meets the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is part of the Appalachian Mountains and runs to the Smoky Mountain National Park.

Flora and Fauna

There are four distinct seasons in the park making it an exciting place to visit any time of the year. The area is best known for its rich red foliage that begins in September and peaks in mid- to late October. Spring brings an abundance of wildflowers in April, while the leaves on the trees come out in May.

Deer at Tanner Ridge Overlook.

On southwestern faces of some of the southernmost hillsides, pine predominates and there is the occasional prickly pear cactus, which grows naturally. In contrast, some of the northeastern aspects are most likely to have small but dense stands of moisture-loving hemlocks and mosses in abundance. Other commonly found plants include oak, hickory, chestnut, maple, tulip poplar, mountain laurel, milkweed, daisies, jack-in-the-pulpits, lady slipper orchids, rose azaleas, and many species of ferns.

The once predominant American Chestnut tree was effectively brought to extinction in the Park by a fungus known as the Chestnut blight during the 1930s – though the tree continues to grow in the park, it does not reach maturity and dies back before it can reproduce. Various species of oaks superseded the chestnuts and became the dominant tree species. Gypsy moth infestations beginning in the early 1990s began to erode the dominance of the oak forests as the moths would primarily consume their leaves. Though the moths are not as prevelant as they once were, they continue to affect the forest and have destroyed almost 10 percent of the oak groves.

  • Over 200 species of birds make their home in the park for at least part of the year. About 30 live in the park year-round, including barred owls, Carolina chickadees, Red-tailed Hawks, and wild turkeys. The Peregrine Falcon was reintroduced into the park in the mid 1990s and by the end of the twentieth century numerous nesting pairs had formed.
  • Thirty-two species of fish have been documented in the park, including brook trout, longnose and blacknose dance, and the bluehead chub.

Seventy-four rare species and community types have been recorded in the park. According to the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation “The significant number of natural heritage resources in Shenandoah National Park is testimony to its rich biodiversity. The park’s large area, range of elevations, varied topography, and assemblage of substrates provide diverse conditions suitable for more rare species and significant natural communities than any other Mid-Atlantic Region national park unit.” A few of the rare species recorded are the Shenandoah Salamander, birds such as the Winter Wren and Blackburnian Warbler, and plants and trees such as Blue Flag Iris, Speckled Alder, and the Leathery Grape-Fern.

Climate

The climate of Shenandoah National Park is typical eastern mid-Atlantic woodland and only the highest points of the mountains show much change or alteration of typical flora and fauna species as might be found at sea level. The park has an average annual rainfall of 39 inches with thunderstorms that occur throughout the year. The winter snowfall is fairly modest with an average of 29 inches per year. Summer is the most popular time to visit the park with pleasant temperatures (Fahrenheit) averaging from the mid-40s to high 50s at night and low 70s to mid-80s during the day. It is usually 10 degrees warmer in the valley than in the mountain areas of the park.

Geology

Geologists believe the mountains that make up the Shenandoah National Park to be more than 1 billion years old—some of the most ancient in the world. Due to the forces of wind, water, frost, and ice for millions of years, the mountains have been worn away to a top elevation of 4,051 feet (1,235 m). These same forces continue to sculpt and define the breathtaking scenery of the Shenandoah National Park today. Visitors of the park can see the granite component of this ancient rock at Old Rag Mountain and Mary’s Rock Tunnel. Other rock types that can be seen in the park include basalts, made from lava flows, and sedimentary rocks such as sandstone, quartzite, and phyllite.

History

Skyline Drive

Around 8,000-9,000 years ago, the first traces of humans were recorded on the land that would become the park. Native Americans made their homes there for centuries, living the lifestyle of hunter-gatherers.

In the early 1700s, Europeans came to the area as hunters and trappers. By 1750, the first settlers moved into the lower hollows near springs and streams, and began cultivating the land for farming and grazing. Before long the mining of iron, copper, and manganese began.

The state of Virginia slowly began acquiring the land from landowners, according to eminent domain laws, in order to transfer it to the U.S. Government—with the provision it would be designated a National Park. On May 22, 1926, President Coolidge signed into law a bill authorizing the creation of Shenandoah National Park. However, it wasn’t until December 26, 1935, nearly 10 years later, that the federal government officially accepted title to the land and the park was fully established.

Mount Marshall and Hogsback Mountain covered in clouds in winter.

During that time, the Summer White House was established by President Hoover on the Rapidan River. The construction of Skyline Drive began and the Civilian Conservation Corps was established and began work in the park area.

In the creation of the park and Skyline Drive, over 500 families and entire communities were forced to relocate. However, the development of the park and the construction of Skyline Drive created badly needed jobs for many Virginians during the Great Depression. At that time, nearly 90 percent of the inhabitants worked the land for a living, many in the apple orchards in the valley and in areas near the eastern slopes. A 1930 drought destroyed the crops of many families in the area. The work to create the National Park and Skyline Drive began following this drought.

Since 1977, nearly half of the Green Springs National Historic Landmark District, a nearby area affiliated with Shenandoah National Park, has been protected by preservation easements held by the National Park Service.

Attractions

Waterfalls

Falls Height Location Description
Overall Run 93 ft (28 m) Mile 21.1, parking lot just south of Hogback Overlook The tallest waterfall in the park. 6.5 mile (10 km) round-trip hike
Whiteoak Canyon 86 ft (28 m) Mile 42.6, Whiteoak Canyon parking area Whiteoak Canyon has a series of six waterfalls, the first (and tallest) is 86 feet (28 m). Not all the falls are easily accessible from the trail.
Cedar Run 34 ft (10 m) Mile 45.6, Hawksbill Gap parking area Difficult 3.4 mile (5 km) round-trip hike
Rose River 67 ft (20 m) Mile 49.4, parking at Fishers Gap Overlook A 2.6 mile (4 km) round-trip hike. Can also be done as a longer loop hike.
Dark Hollow Falls 70 ft (21 m) Mile 50.7, Dark Hollow Falls parking area 1.4 mile (2 km) round-trip hike. The closest waterfall to Skyline Drive and the most popular. No pets allowed on this trail.
Lewis Falls 81 ft (25 m) Mile 51.4, parking lot just south of Big Meadows, next to a service road 2 mile (3 km) round-trip hike.
South River Falls 83 ft (25 m) Mile 62.8, park at South River picnic area 3.3 mile (5 km) loop hike to an overlook above the falls. There is also a rocky, 1 mile (2 km) round-trip spur trail that goes to the base of the falls.
Doyles River Falls 28 and 63 ft (9 and 19 m) Mile 81.1, Doyles River parking area A 3 mile (5 km) round-trip hike to see both the upper and lower falls. Be sure to go a little past the lower falls viewing spot for a better view. Can also be turned into a 7.8 mile (13 km) loop trail that also goes by Jones Run Falls
Jones Run Falls 42 ft (13 m) Mile 84.1, Jones Run parking area A 3.6 mile (6 km) round-trip hike. Can also be turned into a longer loop hike that goes by Doyles River upper and lower falls

  • A white-tailed deer

The park is best known for Skyline Drive, a 105 mile (169 km) road that runs the entire length of the park along the ridge of the mountains connecting at the south end with the 469 mile (755 km) Blue Ridge Parkway. The drive is particularly popular in the autumn when the leaves are changing colors. Also in the park are 101 miles (162 km) of the Appalachian Trail. In total, there are over 500 miles (800 km) of trails within the park. Of the trails, one of the most popular is Old Rag Mountain, which offers a thrilling rock scramble and some of the most breathtaking views in Virginia. There is also horseback riding, camping, bicycling, and spectacular waterfalls. The Skyline Drive is designated as a National Scenic Byway.

Stony Man Trail

This is one of the most scenic trails in the Skyline drive. It ends at a cliff and offers a beautiful overlook.

Dark Hollow Falls Trail

Dark Hollow Falls is another scenic trail of Skyline Drive and ends in waterfalls. The trail is at the edge of a stream, which enhances the enjoyment. Birds, butterflies, deer, and occasionally black bear and timber rattlesnake may be seen on this hike, but have not been known to harm any visitors.


References
ISBN links support NWE through referral fees

  • Away.com. Shenandoah National Park Retrieved November 20, 2007.
  • Blackley, Pat, and Chuck Blackley. 2003. Shenandoah National Park impressions. Helena, MT: Farcounty Press. ISBN 1560372303 and ISBN 9781560372301
  • Butcher, Russell D., and Lynn P. Whitaker. 1999. Guide to national parks. Northeast region. NPCA national park guide series. Guilford, Conn: Globe Pequot Press. ISBN 0762705728 and ISBN 9780762705726
  • Manning, Russ, and Russ Manning. 2000. 75 hikes in Virginia's Shenandoah National Park. Seattle, WA: Mountaineers. ISBN 0898866359 and ISBN 9780898866353
  • Radlauer, Ruth, Ed Radlauer, and Rolf Zillmer. 1982. Shenandoah National Park. Parks for people. Chicago: Childrens Press. ISBN 0516077449 and ISBN 9780516077444
  • Shelton, Napier. 1975. The nature of Shenandoah: a naturalist's story of a mountain park. [Harpers Ferry, W. Va.]: Office of Publications, National Park Service, U.S. Dept. of the Interior.
  • Uhler, John William. Seasons of Shenandoah National Park Page Makers, LLC.

External links

All links retrieved January 27, 2023.


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