shenandoah

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You sit atop a pile of ancient granite, surrounded on all sides by clear blue skies and a sea of fall foliage, leaves crinkling softly in the breeze. If this sounds like your idea of heaven on earth, it's closer than you may think. Shenandoah National Park, located in western Virginia, is home to some of the most beautiful views of the Appalachian Mountains. Within easy driving distance of Washington D.C. and schools such as James Madison University and the University of Virginia, these impressive vistas beckon to both old and young alike. Here are three hikes that could each fill a beautiful Fall afternoon, and you won't even have to carry a backpack.

Limberlost Trail, Milepost 43
Conveniently located near Skyland Lodge and Resort, this trail would be an easy start for the less seasoned hiker and for those bringing the kids along. Well maintained with a crushed greenstone walkway, this is the only trail in the park that is wheelchair accessible as per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Since the trail is fairly level, it won't take you to any of the more stunning views that the park has to offer, but it is a lovely trail nonetheless. It winds whimsically through the forest, coming back to the parking area after a 1.3 mile circuit. While perfectly pleasant in the fall, make sure to come back around June when the mountain laurel blooms to see some truly spectacular natural scenery.

Dark Hollow Falls Trail, between Mileposts 50 and 51
If you're looking for a slightly greater challenge, this trail will reward your perseverence with a view of a 70 foot waterfall. The trail twists and turns deep into the ravine that shelters this mountain stream, and can be quite steep in some sections. The trail is quite well maintained, however, and the park service has even installed natural "stairs" along some portions to make it a bit more manageable. At 1.4 miles round trip, this trail is easily done with enough time to stop and enjoy the scenery. Just remember that the climb back up is alot more difficult than the descent, so save some water!

Hawksbill Mountain Summit, Milepost 45.6 or 46.7
The highest peak in the park at 4050 feet, Hawksbill Summit is the place to go for amazing views of the surrounding countryside. Using the Lower Hawksbill Trail at Milepost 45.6 will result in a shorter round trip of 1.7 miles, but the Upper Hawksbill Trail with parking at Milepost 46.7 is a slightly easier hike along the fire road at the expense of a longer round trip distance (2.1 miles). Regardless of your chosen approach, Hawksbill Summit is worth the effort. Truly fantastic views of the entire Shenandoah Valley greet those who make it to the top, and the short distance of the hike ensures that you can observe a beautiful mountain sunset and still make it back to the car before dark. For those who want an even greater challenge, a 2.9 mile circuit hike linking up with the Appalachian Trail provides even more opportunities for gorgeous mountain views.

Although the natural splendor of Shenandoah can be quite beautiful, please remember to always be prepared even while on short day hikes. Mountain weather can be very unpredictable, so dressing in layers that can be easily taken on and off is recommended. Remember to bring plenty of water as well. By being safely prepared, you can enjoy a worry-free day in the great outdoors.