Shenandoah National Park

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National park in Virginia, United States

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Shenandoah National Park
View from Skyline Drive
IUCN category	II
Location	Virginia, United States
Nearest city	[[Waynesboro]]
Area
Established	December 26, 1935
Visitors
Governing body	[[National Park Service]]
Website	[ Shenandoah National Park]
This protected area related article is a stub.

Shenandoah National Park is a national park located in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The park encompasses part of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the central Appalachians. The park is long and narrow, with the broad Shenandoah River and Shenandoah Valley on the west side, and the rolling hills of the Piedmont region to the east.

History

The idea for Shenandoah National Park was first proposed in the early 20th century. The park was officially established on December 26, 1935, and was created from over 1,000 privately owned tracts of land that were acquired by the federal government. The park was developed during the Great Depression by the Civilian Conservation Corps, which built many of the park's facilities and trails.

Geography

Shenandoah National Park covers an area of 199,173 acres (311.2 sq mi; 80,586 ha). The park is known for its scenic vistas, including the famous Skyline Drive, a 105-mile (169 km) road that runs the length of the park along the ridge of the mountains. The highest peak in the park is Hawksbill Mountain, which rises to an elevation of 4,051 feet (1,235 m).

Flora and Fauna

The park is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species. The forests are primarily composed of oak and hickory trees, with a variety of wildflowers and shrubs. Wildlife in the park includes white-tailed deer, black bear, wild turkey, and numerous species of birds and small mammals.

Recreation

Shenandoah National Park offers a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The park has over 500 miles (800 km) of trails, including a portion of the Appalachian Trail, which runs for 101 miles (163 km) through the park. Popular hiking destinations include Old Rag Mountain, Dark Hollow Falls, and Stony Man Mountain.

Conservation

The park is managed by the National Park Service, which works to preserve its natural and cultural resources. Efforts are made to protect the park's ecosystems, maintain its facilities, and provide educational programs for visitors.

Related Pages

• Skyline Drive
• Appalachian Trail
• Blue Ridge Mountains
• National Park Service
• Civilian Conservation Corps