This segment of the park includes Big Meadows, and an interesting section of the Appalachian Trail that takes it in, along with Stony Man, Marys Rock and more.
Miles 33.5-37.9
Hazel/Nicholson Hikes
This was a well populated area. The inhabitants are gone, but the area is criss-crossed with their old footpaths and roads, providing many possible hikes. A fun place to explore.
Mile 33.5
Buck Hollow
This is a pleasant, but not spectacular hike, so it's not frequently used and is a good choice if you're seeking isolation.
Up to 6.2 miles round-trip, but even the smallest portion makes for a satisfying hike. One nice destination is a grove of old growth hemlocks at about mile 0.3 miles from the start.
Mile 39.1
Little Stony Man
One of the best places in the park to watch the sunset. Panoramic view, including of Stony Man, which is one of those features that has a face that everybody else but you can see.
0.9 mile round trip. Easy, with some steep sections.
[Go to more detail on the Appalachian Trail as it passes Stony Man]
Mile 41.7
Stony Man Nature Trail
To a view of Page Valley and Massanutten Mountain. This is an interpreted trail, using a pamphlet keyed to numbered posts.
1.6 mile round trip to a view
Passamaquoddy Trail
An interesting hike to the top of Stony Man.
3.5 miles. Moderate.
Mile 42.5
Millers Head
To an observation platform with a nearly 360 degree view
1.6 mile round trip. Easy.
Mile 42.6
Whiteoak Canyon Falls
This popular trail leads to the second highest waterfall in the park, then five more beyond. Most people stop at the first: it's the most dramatic and afterwards the trail becomes very rocky & steep.
4.6 miles roundtrip
Mile 43
Limberlost
Through grove of old growth hemlocks. Park is making this a fully accessible trail.
A 1.2 mile circuit
Mile 43
Robertson Mountain
A short distance from the Limberlost parking area at Mile 43, this trail to one of the best but least visited destinations begins.
A 6.2 mile circuit
[Go to a detailed description of Robertson Mountain Trail]
Mile 44.4
Betty's Rock
To an outstanding view from a rock ledge.A 0.8 mile round trip
Mile 45.6
Cedar Run Falls
Some of the prettiest scenery in the park is found along this steepish trail through a rocky gorge. Cascades are the small and lovely, rather than soaring and dramatic.
3.4 miles roundtrip
Mile 46.7
Hawksbill Summit
Great hike to highest peak in the park and 360 degree view. Along the way, the terrain is like a rock garden, with interesting foilage and flowering plants growing out of niches in the rocks.
2.1 miles. Moderately strenuous, but worth it.
Mile 49.4
Rose River Falls
Arresting, 49.4 foot falls that splits into two then four parallel cascades.
2.6 miles roundtrip. Moderate.
Mile 50.7
Dark Hollow Falls
These falls are among the nearest to Skyline. That fact, combined their impressive 70 foot height, makes for somewhat crowded. First stop is a viewing platform; descend (steep) another tenth of a mile and the view's even better.
Round trip 1.4 miles
Mile 51
Story of the Forest Trail
At Big Meadows, where there's a visitors center. Self-guided nature trail that explains transformation of meadow to forest
1.8 mile circuit
Mile 51.4
Lewis Falls
A short but challenging hike to a series of falls that totals out at 81 feet. Along the way you'll be hanging on to an iron handrail. Fun.2 miles roundtrip. Moderately strenuous.
Mile 52.8
Camp Hoover via Mill Prong
Through forests and old orchards to historic retreat of President Hoover. Back off if you see government cars out front; the site is still being used for high level government meetings.
4.1 miles. Easy
Mile 56.4
Bearfence
Your choice, to either a viewpoint or rock scramble.
1.2 mile circuit. Moderate
Mile 59.5
Pocosin Mission
To the site of a former church and settlement through old orchards that still produce edible fruit.
1.9 mile round trip. Easy.
Mile 62.8
South River Falls
Fun trail to 83 foot falls - third highest in Shenandoah. Go in spring and you get a wildflower bonus.
2.6 miles round trip. Moderate
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