While interning in Washington DC for the summer, a group of us wanted to get out of the city and see Shenandoah National Park. I really wanted to hike Old Rag and, with the help of a Ranger, managed to convince the group of people (with varying levels of hiking experience) that came with me to go on the 9.2 mile loop with a rock scramble. Sharing water, snacks, and encouragement, we made it to the top and got an amazing view and a sense of accomplishment. We saw deer, a bear, a cold stream, and so much greenery. Sometimes we were literally pulling each other up and crawling under and over rocks, passing our packs when we couldn’t fit while wearing them. It was an amazing way to spend 6 hours and 50 minutes!
Sincerely,
Shenandoah National Park
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains in central Virginia, Shenandoah features rolling tree-lined hills, wooded hollows, spectacular waterfalls and a diversity of wildlife, all easily accessible from the scenic Skyline Drive. The park preserves a remarkable slice of southern Appalachian natural history and beauty with a dazzling array of recreational opportunities.
State(s): Virginia
Established: 1935
“The city is great, but our parks reconnect us with nature and the world around us. America has so many beautiful places that need to be explored and appreciated! My boyfriend and I are trying to see every National Park in the US (and lakeshore and seashore and forest...) and each state park in Texas together! Supporting the Parks helps us achieve that goal, as well as preserve some of the best parts of the world for future generations. ”
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