Trailhead Hike: Crescent Rocks/Skyland, SNP, VA
Sat, Oct 05
|Luray
This hike explores the area that was most frequently visited in what is now Shenandoah National Park, but what was formerly the grounds of Skyland Resort.
Time & Location
Oct 05, 2024, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM EDT
Luray, Luray, VA 22835, USA
About the Event
$5 plus park fee or pass. Long hike: 11 mi., 1900 ft. ascent. Moderate hike: 7½ mi., 1500 ft. ascent.
All hikers start at the Crescent Rocks overlook between the 44- and 45-mile markers on Skyline Drive. They will begin together by crossing Skyline Drive to the Crescent Rocks Trail, and continue on the Limberlost and White Oak Canyon Trails to a horse trail. From there they will take the horse trail past a fire road and go towards the Skyline Drive, crossing it to reach the north entrance of Skyland Resort. Moderate hikers will continue on the Appalachian Trail going south through the resort area and eventually returning to Crescent Rocks. Long hikers will take the AT north past the Little Stony Man overlook to the junction with the Passamaquoddy Trail, take the Passamaquoddy Trail to the path leading to the lodge at Skyland Resort, take a brief roadwalk to the stables, and from the stables take the AT south to Crescent Rocks. Note that both hikes offer the opportunity to visit Skyland itself, where one can purchase drinks and snacks, use the facilities, and read about the history of the resort, beginning with its origins in 1888.