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Shenandoah National ParkBright purple violets create a lovely contrast against ancient rocks.
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Shenandoah National Park
Ranger Programs
A young visitor gets a close look at an owl during a Live Birds of Prey Ranger Program.
NPS John F. Mitchell
Quote from a Shenandoah visitor, after attending a "Live Birds of Prey" Ranger Program.

Explore Shenandoah with a Ranger

Ranger-guided programs give visitors the opportunity to explore the wonders of the park with a Ranger. Programs are offered in spring, summer, and fall. Discover the many stories of Shenandoah's past, take a walk through the splendor of a unique mountain meadow, or learn about the many animals and plants that thrive in Shenandoah National Park.

Spring Programs: April 4 - May 22 (see table below)

  • A=Accessible
  • Pets are not allowed on guided programs.
  • Programs will be cancelled in the event of lightning or other severe weather.
  • Click here for a printable version of the schedule.
  • *Programs not offered May 9-10 due to Wildflower Weekend.

Planning a Summer Trip?
Summer programs begin May 23. Click here for the schedule.

 
SPRING PROGRAMS

Skyland Area
Mile 41.7 and 42.5

*SUN

MON

TUE

WED

THU

FRI

*SAT

Limberlost Stroll – This walk is perfect for people of all ages and abilities. 1.3 miles. 2hrs. Meet at the Limberlost Trailhead (milepost 43).

A

10 am*

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wild About Bears – Learn about the unique lifestyle of Shenandoah’s largest mammal during this 20-minute talk. Skyland Dining Hall Terrace.

A

1:30 pm*

 

 

 

 

10 am

 

Ancient Volcano Hike – Imagine fiery lava and rivers of molten rock in Shenandoah! Walk along the remains of an ancient volcanic rift. 2 miles. 2 hrs. Meet at Timber Hollow Overlook (mile 43.3).

 

 

10 am

 

 

10 am

 

 

Millers Head Hike – Panoramic views can be had on this trail as it descends 450 feet to an observation platform with spectacular views of the Shenandoah Valley. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water. 1.6 miles. 2 hrs. Meet at the new Skyland Amphitheater.

 

 

 

10 am

 

 

 

 

An Insider’s Insight – A park ranger explores a fascinating discovery about Shenandoah National Park during this 20-minute talk. Skyland Dining Hall Terrace.

A

 

 

1:30 pm

 

 

 

 

Stony Man Hike – Some of the most incredible views in Shenandoah are closer than you think! Wear sturdy shoes and bring water on this hike to the park’s second tallest peak. 1.6 miles. 2 hrs. Meet at Stony Man Trailhead (mile 41.7).

 

 

 

 

2:30 pm

 

 

10 am*

Historic Massanutten Lodge – Tour the restored 1911 bungalow home of Addie Pollock and learn about the figures and forces of early Skyland Resort. 1 hour. Meet at Skyland Conference Hall (lower road).

A

 

 

 

 

2:30 pm

 

2:30 pm*

* Programs not offered May 9-10 due to Wildflower Weekend

Big Meadows Area
Milepost 51

*SUN

MON

TUE

WED

THU

FRI

*SAT

Terrace Talk – Spend 10 minutes learning about a special feature of the park. Check at information desk for talk schedule. Byrd Visitor Center.

A

Check at Information Desk for Talk Schedule.

Discovery Walk – Explore and find out what’s blooming, peeping, crawling, or singing this week! 1 hr. Meet at Byrd Visitor Center.

 

10 am*

2:30 pm

 

 

2:30 pm

 

 

More than a Meadow – Follow deer trails to discover the wonders of this unique 130-acre meadow on a gentle walk. 1 mile. 1.5 hrs. Meet at Byrd Visitor Center.

 

2:30 pm*

 

 

10 am

 

2:30 pm

 

Live Birds of Prey – Meet live raptors and learn about their vital role in the ecosystem. 1 hr. Big Meadows Amphitheater, in picnic area.

A

 

 

10 am

 

 

 

10 am*

Appalachian Trail Hike – Hike a portion of this famous mountain trail and discover its fascinating stories. 2 miles. 2 hrs. Meet at Milam Gap Parking Area (mile 52.8).

 

 

 

2:30 pm

 

 

 

 

Wild About Bears – Learn about the unique lifestyle of Shenandoah’s largest mammal during this 20-minute talk. Byrd Visitor Center.

A

 

 

 

1:30 pm

 

 

 

An Insider’s Insight – A park ranger explores a fascinating discovery about Shenandoah National Park during this 20-minute talk. Byrd Visitor Center.

A

 

 

 

 

10 am

 

 

Junior Ranger Program – Unlock the mysteries of Shenandoah through fun and educational activities. Kids ages 7-12. Parent/adult must accompany child. 1.5 hrs. Meet at Byrd Visitor Center.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2 pm*

Picture Shenandoah – Join a ranger for an evening of fascinating discoveries during this 45-minute talk. Byrd Visitor Center.

A

 

 

 

 

 

 

7:30 pm*


* Programs not offered May 9-10 due to Wildflower Weekend
o	The leathery grape fern, one of the rare plants in Big Meadows, has a fertile frond bearing small grapelike clusters of spore cases.  

Did You Know?
Shenandoah National Park has 431 rare plant populations representing 66 rare plant species. The highest concentration of these is in the park’s Big Meadows area

Last Updated: April 30, 2009 at 15:52 EST