WHAT:
The National Parks Conservation Association will offer free guided hikes in Shenandoah National Park. Hikers will explore different trails and learn how to protect themselves from air pollution. In addition, participants will receive a free guide on how to have a safe, healthy, and enjoyable visit in our national parks.

WHO:
National Parks Conservation Association

WHEN:
Every other Sunday, July 16-October 22
Hikes begin at 2:00 p.m.

WHERE:

July 16 - Rapidan Camp Hike
Hike the Mill Prong Trail to Rapidan Camp, President Herbert Hoover’s summer retreat. Rapidan Camp has been designated a National Historic Landmark. Be advised, this 4.2-mile hike will offer some steep spots and stream crossings. Meet at Milam Gap Parking Area, Mile Marker 52.8.

July 30 - Story of the Forest Trail
An easy 1.8-mile loop will highlight the wonders of the Blue Ridge forest. This is a good hike for children. Meet at Byrd Visitor Center, Big Meadows, Mile Marker 51.0.

August 13 - Big Run Loop
A loop trail through the hardwood forest and park wilderness. Difficulty: easy to moderate. Meet at Doyles River parking lot, Mile Marker 81.1.

August 27 - Snead Farm, Dickey Ridge Trail Loop
A 3.2-mile loop near the Front Royal entrance to the Park that includes barn remains from Snead Farm and beautiful views of Signal Knob and the Shenandoah Valley. Difficulty: easy to moderate. Meet at Dickey Ridge Visitor Center, Mile Marker 4.6.

September 10 - Hawksbill Summit
Enjoy a 2.8-mile loop hike to the spectacular views of the highest mountain in the park. Difficulty: moderate. Meet at Hawksbill Gap parking area, Mile Marker 45.6.

September 24 - Stony Man Nature Trail
Hike 1.4-miles to the peak of Stony Man Mountain, acclaimed photographer Hullihen Williams Moore, author of Shenandoah: Views of Our National Park, will join us. Difficulty: easy. Meet at Stony Man Nature Trail parking lot, just inside the north entrance to Skyland, Mile Marker 41.7.

October 8 - Compton Peak
Hike 2.4-miles on the Appalachian Trail. Difficulty: moderate. Meet at Compton Gap parking lot, Mile Marker 10.4.

October 22 - Whiteoak Canyon
Hike 5.2-miles to the Upper Whiteoak Falls, a scenic cascade. Difficulty: moderate. Meet at Whiteoak Canyon parking lot, Mile Marker 42.6.

Since 1919, the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association has been the leading voice of the American people in protecting and enhancing our National Park System. NPCA, its members, and partners work together to protect the park system and preserve our nation’s natural, historical, and cultural heritage for generations to come. NPCA has more than 300,000 members, including more than 10,000 members in Virginia. For more information, visit: www.npca.org/mid_atlantic.

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