Autumn in Shenandoah National Park Valley
Northern Virginia is home to the rolling mountains and awe-inspiring terrain that characterizes Shenandoah National Park. With more than 500 miles of hiking trails (including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail), and the scenic Skyline Drive, this park is a visual treat for the many tourists who come to Shenandoah annually. The most popular season is fall, as the leaves begin to change and the foliage peaks.
Before it was preserved as a national park, the region was home to a number of mountain settlements. Land was set aside over time for Shenandoah, and slowly the “mountain folk” began relocating.
Early in his administration, 31st president Herbert Hoover purchased land for a “getaway” retreat. Rapidan Camp – the first space specifically designed to serve as a presidential retreat – was constructed near the mouth of the Rapidan River. In 1932, the Hoovers left Rapidan Camp to the Commonwealth of Virginia, to be used by future presidents. Toward the end of 1935, the camp was officially named part of Shenandoah National Park.
Learn more about Shenandoah National Park.
