I’m sure most of you have heard of Shenandoah National Park: waterfalls, vistas, wooded hollows – all encompassing part of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Out of all the national parks I’ve visited, Shenandoah is the closest to home and the one in which I’ve spent the most time.

However, it wasn’t until recently that I heard of its little cousin to the west: Shenandoah River State Park. This park, which happens to be roughly 1% the size of its national park counterpart, still packs a pretty big punch. My favorite part by far was the river (more on that later), but there were also some pretty nifty hikes that didn’t leave me disappointed.

Due to covid 19 closures, I’ve become much more interested in exploring the Virginia state parks that have remained open with only minor restrictions. Before embarking on my short voyage to Shenandoah River State Park, I did some research on possible hikes, yet I couldn’t find very much information. Thus, a game of hiking roulette landed me on three different, yet equally enticing trails which had some lovely features. My gamble paid off.

Without further ado.

(1) Wildcat Ledge Trail ⋅ Spur ⋅ 0.5 miles RT

This was a short but delightful trail that afforded the hiker some excellent views of the river. It felt quite steep, but perhaps that was due to my not-quite-in-hiking-shape fitness level. It was a rather humid evening, but I actually enjoyed the mugginess paired with a consistent and hefty breeze. At the top of the steep 0.1 mile section, I breathed easier on the flat ledge, and the remainder of the hike was a simple walk-in-the-park (literally). Some of my favorite hikes end in a rocky outcrop, so of course this trail tops my list. [see top image]

(2) Redtail Ridge Trail joined with Big Oak Trail ⋅ Loop ⋅ ~ 2 miles

Peaceful.

*sigh*

This hike had an abundance of shade – it felt like the woods was filtering out all of the noise and stress of city life. Additionally, there were so many birds to spot. While taking a break on a well-placed bench, I identified an oriole and a goldfinch! Once again, there were some pretty views of the river, and I decided to take my time on this hike absorbing all of the wonderful feels.

(3) Culler’s Trail joined with Tulip Poplar Trail ⋅ Lollipop ⋅ ~ 1.5 miles

I started this hike just past the pollinator meadow and down by the cabins. The Culler’s Trail featured open skies, wildflowers, and long meadow grass on either side. It was sunny and hot, but I still appreciated the sun on my skin and the sound of the grasses singing in the breeze. Eventually the trail intersected with Tulip Poplar, so I gradually made my way uphill into the cooler recesses of the woods. Yes, there were many tulip poplar leaves and blooms spread along the ground. This hike can also be linked up with the Redtail Ridge and Big Oak Trail for a longer, diverse trek.

When I took my 47 park trip four years ago, I never imagined that it would launch so many adventures both near and far to natural spaces. Given that there are a multitude of phenomenal wild places in the state of Virginia, I have to say that I don’t mind staying close to home. There are many local escapades right around the corner.