Visitor Guide - Fall 2005 U.S. Department of the Interior

Shenandoah National Park Shenandoah Overlook

Beauty Comes Naturally Here Park Emergency Number: (800)732-0911 Imagine having to look through a hole in a In 1924, a commission searched to find an area fence to view a beautiful waterfall to create a western-like national park more accessible to the large eastern population. The Inside ... It happened at our first world-renowned Blue Ridge offered the solitude of wilderness, Things To Know While You're Here 2-3 natural wonder, Niagara Falls. Private the wonder of wildflowers, calming brooks Waterfalls of Shenandoah 4-5 landowners built commercial structures and and streams, the amazement of the stealth of a Visitor Services 6 barriers that blocked access. bobcat, or the inspiration of hawks in flight. Historically Speaking 7 Ranger Programs 8 Imagine sitting on the balcony of a hotel, Vacationers have been drawn to the natural viewing a majestic waterfall through a clear-cut wonders of the Blue Ridge, such as the six swath of trees. It happened at Yosemite Falls, waterfalls of rugged Whiteoak Canyon, for Leash Your Dog which was "turning into a great swindle like over 100 years. Early on, one entrepreneur | in Shenandoah! Niagara ... for fleecing the public." The built a changing house and swimming pool (see"Pets in the degradation of these areas helped spur the near the top of Whiteoak Falls to enhance the Park" on page 2) movement for scenic preservation in America. visitors' experience.

Quick Facts about Shenandoah: Another waterfall led more directly to the Since 's establish­ creation of our first national park. Artist ment in 1935, visitors have enjoyed all of the • - 105 miles long, 75 Overlooks Thomas Moran's painting of the lower falls park's natural features free of impediments or • Total Acreage - 197,438 acres of "The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone" spectacles. You won't be entertained by piped- • Designated Wilderness - 79,579 acres inspired awe of nature and desire for preserva­ in music or colored lights illuminating a water­ • Highest Peak - Hawksbill Mountain, 4,050 feet tion in the public and helped motivate fall, but you may be inspired by the pure, • Hiking Trails - 516 miles, including 101 miles Congress to establish Yellowstone in 1872. simple beauty of nature. of the • Highest Waterfall - Overall Run Falls, 90 feet • Plants - More than 1300 species • Birds - Over 200 species

Visit Shenandoah Online www.nps.gov/shen

in rugged grandeur, but first in beauty of woods, in thrilling fairyland glens, and in warmth of Mother Nature's welcome.

m Commissioner William D. Gregg, :i 924

EXPERIENCE YOUR AMERICA Things To Know...

Shenandoah Overtook is published for the park visitor by They're Wonderful-and Wild\ Pets in the Park Shenandoah National Park, Interpretation and Education Division, with funding from the Shenandoah National Park Pets are welcome in Association and ARAMARK. the park, if they are The following businesses have provided additional funding: kept on a six-foot Brookside Restaurant, Luray, VA Days Inn, Luray, VA lead at all times. Front Royal Visitor Center Luray-Page Co. Chamber of Commerce Pets are not permitted on guided Merck & Co., Inc., Elkton, VA programs because they can be Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, Luray, VA Respect Wildlife in Shenandoah! distracting to hike leaders and Editors: participants. In addition, to ensure Claire Comer, Media/Publications Manager Shenandoah National Park is home to many wild animals. You'll see some your pet's safety and the safety of while you're here. Be careful NOT to feed the deer or bears or any other Joanne Amberson, Park Volunteer others, pets are not permitted on animals, though—they're WILD. And don't approach them too closely. Help Layout and Design: the following trails: the park protect wild animals in their natural state so that your children and Neal Lewis, Visual Information Specialist grandchildren can enjoy them, too. Photographs: • Fox Hollow Trail (mile 4.6) John Mitchell, Park Volunteer • Traces Trail (mile 22.2) John Amberson, Park Volunteer The Air We Breathe Shenandoah National Park Archives • Stony Man Trail (mile 41.7)

Contributors to this issue: The colorless gas called ozone exists naturally in the stratosphere, where it • Limberlost Trail (milepost 43) James Akerson, Joanne Amberson, Steve shields the earth from the sun's ultraviolet rays. However, ozone is considered Bair, Robbie Brockwehl, Laura Buchheit, • Dark Hollow Falls Trail (mile 50.7) Wendy Cass, Claire Comer, Donna Cuttone, an air pollutant when close to ground level-where it is formed by a chemical Reed L. Engle, Penny Gray, Mara Meisel, reaction between volatile organic compounds and oxides of nitrogen in the • Story of the Forest Trail Karen Michaud, Greta Miller, Charlie presence of sunlight and heat. When these ozone levels are high, usually from (milepost 51) Newton, Gordon Olson May through September, some people develop inflammation of the respiratory • Bearfence Mountain Trail tract or other problems when exercising strenuously. Printed by: (mile 56.4) Shenandoah Publications, Inc., High ozone levels in Shenandoah National Park do occur, though not often. Woodstock, VA • Frazier Discovery Trail (mile 79.5) The National Park Service has provided an Ozone Advisory System to alert Shenandoah National Park people when high levels are detected, so they can adjust their outdoor activity • Old Rag Ridge Trail 3655 U.S. Highway 211 East as needed. Visit www.nps.gov/shen for additional information. Luray, 22835 • Old Rag Saddle Trail (540) 999-3500 Call (540) 999-3500 (May-Sept) to learn if ozone levels are high in the park. (above the Shelter) www.nps.gov/shen

Park SNPA: Take Home a Lasting Memory . . . Accessibility

Restrooms and Buildings - Most are The Shenandoah National Park Association (SNPA) has been a steward of the accessible or accessible with assistance. park for 55 years! And YOU help SNPA help the park every time you purchase something from a visitor center or from the SNPA website, because all profits from Lodging - Accessible overnight accommo­ dations are available at Lewis Mountain, sales go to the park. Skyland Resort, and Lodge. SNPA Publishes an Award-Winning (800)999-4714. Cultural History Series Picnic Grounds and Campgrounds - JOIN US! Accessible sites are available at all park Part of the history of Shenandoah National Park is picnic grounds and campgrounds (except now available in three books published by the If you want to do even more, Dundo). Accessible shower and laundry Shenandoah National Park Association. Everything SNPA invites you to become a facilities are available at Big Meadows, Was Wonderful: A Pictorial History of the Civilian member. You'll receive a 20% dis­ Lewis Mountain, and Loft Mountain camp­ count on purchases in park visitor grounds. Restrooms at picnic grounds are Conservation Corps in Shenandoah National Park by accessible or accessible with assistance. Reed L Engle won the Media Award from the centers and at visitor centers in National Association of Interpretation in 2000. In the many other national parks. As a Trails - The Limberlost Trail is an accessible member, you'll learn more about trail, a gently sloping 1.3-mile loop featuring Light of the Mountain Moon: An Illustrated History of a 5'-wide greenstone surface. The trail cir­ Skyland, also by Engle, won the same award in 2004. the park and have the satisfaction cles through forest and mountain laurel and In the Shadow of Ragged Mountain: Historical of knowing that you're doing includes a 65' bridge and 150' boardwalk. Archaeology of Nicholson, Corbin, & Weakley Hollows more to take care of it. Information or assistance may be obtained by Audrey Horning is the most recently published by telephoning the Virginia Relay Center at book in the series, telling the story of the mountain Shenandoah National Park (800) 828-1120 (TDD) or (800) 828-1140 residents in three hollows in what is now the park. Association (Voice) or by writing to the park: 3655 US Hwy 211 East

Shenandoah National Park All three books are available at visitor centers, Luray, VA 22835 3655 US Hwy 211 East concession facilities, by phone at 540-999-3582, or (540) 999-3582 Luray, VA 22835 on the website, www.snpbooks.org www.snpbooks.org

2 Shenandoah Overlook 2005 ... While You're Here Backcountry Who Are They? Leave No Trace

s you drive and hike through Scientists will be working at cliff sites AiShenandoa; h National Park this throughout the park, studying the nat­ year, you may come upon groups of ural resources at these sites and how busy people. Do you know who these best to protect them. This three-year workers are? project will involve scientists from the Virginia Department of Conservation Volunteers from the Potomac and Recreation, the U.S. Geological Stewardship in Action Appalachian Trail Club (PATC) main­ Survey, the National Park Service tain all 101 miles of the Appalachian Geological Resources Division, and Protecting the park is everyone's job. Trail in the park and many other trails Virginia Tech. Eventually, the park will Whether you're visiting the park for a as well. They clear the trail, build work with scientists and the public to week-long excursion into the back- waterbars, remove downed trees, develop a Cliff Management Plan. country or simply enjoying the views Most of Shenandoah National Park and in general keep an eye out for from Skyline Drive for the day, you is open to backcountry camping. your safety. Members of the Youth Conservation can protect Shenandoah by practicing Permits are required and are avail­ Corps (YCC) will be doing trail and the principles of Leave No Trace. Staff from the Mid-Atlantic Exotic able free from park headquarters, maintenance work, including cutting Plant Management Team (EPMT) will visitor centers, and most entrance vegetation, clearing rock walls of be working to control Oriental bitter­ stations, as well as at the north and weeds, and cleaning fire pits in sweet, an invasive nonnative species, south entry points for the campgrounds. Appalachian Trail, and Old Rag Fee especially in the Big Meadows area. Station. Seven trailside huts along Park staff will be mowing along Staff from the Mid-Atlantic EPMT the Appalachian Trail are available Skyline Drive and in developed areas will also be in the North and South for long distance hikers. These huts such as campgrounds and picnic Districts of the park controlling another are operated by the Potomac grounds. Appalachian Trail Club (PATC). Other invasive species, mile-a-minute weed. trail shelters are for day use only. Six locked, primitive cabins, main­ tained by the PATC, are located in the park. The cabins are equipped with mattresses, blankets, and cookware. Some cabins will accom­ modate as many as 11 persons. To get additional information or to make reservations, call PATC at (703) Plan Ahead and Prepare - Carry 242-0693 or (703) 242-0315 between plenty of water and wear sturdy 7 and 9 p.m. Monday-Thursday or shoes on all hikes. between 12 and 2 p.m. Thursday- Travel and Camp on Durable Friday. Or write to the club: Surfaces - Stay on trails to avoid Potomac Appalachian Trail Club damaging fragile vegetation. 118 Park Street, SE Vienna, VA 22180 Dispose of Waste Properly - www.patc.net Properly dispose of all trash, including biodegradable material. Leave What You Find - All plants, Where Does the Trash Go? animals, rocks, and artifacts are pro­ tected by law. Leave them as you find hen you're in Shenandoah Mathews Arm Campground them. amidst the forest, wildflowers, W (mile 22.2) Minimize Campfire Impacts - Fires and wildlife, think just a little bit about Elkwallow Picnic Grounds (mile 24.1) are allowed only in pre-constructed trash and where you should put it! fire grates at campgrounds, picnic Right here in the park, thousands of Panorama (mile 31.5) areas, and day-use shelters. pounds of trash are collected each Pinnacles Picnic Grounds (mile 36.7) year. As part of a government-wide Big Meadows Campground Respect Wildlife - Observe wildlife program designed to reduce the (mile 51.2) from a distance. Keep park wildlife amount of trash ending up in landfills, healthy by not feeding them. Big Meadows Picnic Grounds the park has set up several recycling centers. There are bins for aluminum Dickey Ridge Visitor Center (mile 51.2) Be Considerate of Other Visitors - cans, glass, and clear plastics, and Parking Lot (mile 4.6) South River Picnic Grounds (mile 62.8) Excessive noise, unleashed pets, and a dumpster for other trash at the damaged surroundings take away Dickey Ridge Picnic Grounds Loft Mountain Campground following sites. from everyone's experience. (mile 4.7) (mile 79.5)

3 Shenandoah Overlook 2005 5 WATERFALLS OF SHENANDOAH (rWpt/Urw * reacelvd * r^adivuf * fhceymo • r\e£axpruz * &L&rifei&uru3' * \ffl£ArUrvf • L^icadtna • h\vwu#ui • wiyndlovO- • ^ervidUvti * HoweA^uii * oi^^i^ • Ooo&na • nvtrrd£kru^ Why Are Waterfalls So Enticing? Exploring Shenandoah's Waterfalls When the strongest force of water we experience in our daily Curious visitors came to see what locals already knew - an outing lives is from the shower head or garden hose, the power of to a mountain waterfall could be an unforgettable experience. In There are no waterfalls in the park that you can drive to. They If you're tempted to unrestrained, wild water is thrilling. Millions of gallons of water October 1880 a party of picnickers rode to Dark Hollow Falls, all require physical exertion for at least a mile and a half. One take a dip in a plunge coursing over a rocky edge, tumbling down, crashing into rocks describing "a lonely, dark place in the woods where the Robinson half of that hike is uphill. Here are some tips to help make pool, keep in mind that and pools with bouncing sprays delight our River takes its rise. Here the water, coming your next hike to a waterfall a safe and pleasant one. it may be deeper than senses. from a spring at the top of the mountain, it appears; rocks above falls over one precipice and another, down • Take a map or trail booklet along. The trail may not be a and under the surface The power and grace of unfettered nature steep, rocky gulches for 400 feet. We climbed loop - it might continue on past the falls. You need to know can be slippery; and the can be awe-inspiring. At the base of any up perpendicular heights to see the prettiest where to stop and turn around. water can be shockingly waterfall you can find people simply gazing, part of the falls...we started for home...tired cold. Temperatures of lost in contemplation. Some find the water­ and sleepy, carrying with us pleasant recol­ • Read the trailhead map. Understand how far you are going mountain streams in fall a symbol of self-renewal. Some are lections of our trip up the mountain." and what the elevation change is. summer can be in the soothed by the rushing sound of water 50s F. (12-13 C). • Know your limits. Your heart will be working twice as hard against rock. It is lonely no more. The trail to Dark on the uphill return leg of your hike. Your knee joints will be Hollow Falls is one of the most popular in Check the trailhead bearing the brunt of whatever load you carry (including those In the 1890s, George Freeman Pollock the park. It's not far from a lodge and a map to see if pets are extra pounds or an exhausted child). began leading overnight "tramping parties" campground, so it lures overnight visitors allowed. If so, remem­ to Whiteoak Canyon. There, he said, ber to keep them as well as day trippers. • Take water. Hikers returning from a waterfall sometimes feel patrons of his Skyland Resort would "eat leashed at all times. Pets nauseous or light-headed from dehydration. That downhill heartily...tell tales, sing songs, and, finally If you'd like to enjoy a waterfall with fewer are not permitted on the hike that seemed like a breeze is now producing copious lie down upon the beds of boughs and let crowds, you may consider a longer or more Dark Hollow Falls Trail. sweating on the uphill trip. Replace body fluids as you hike. the roar of the waterfall lull us to sleep." strenuous hike. Or try following the stream (Do not drink from streams in the park without first boiling below a waterfall (only if there is a trail). On all park trails, Dark Hollow Falls is a delight in every Waterfalls can be places of uncommon nat­ or purifying the water.) season. A series of rushing and frothing You may come across another pleasant, practice Leave No cascades, the waterfall invites you to stay ural beauty. The constant spray and shady Trace principles. awhile, to feel its power, to become less-visited cascade. • Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes. Flip-flops, pumps, and nooks encourage mosses, ferns, and mush­ Carry a day pack or refreshed and renewed. Later, walk down shoes with high heels don't provide much support on steep, in the winter, if the trail is free of ice and rooms. Wildflowers sprouting through the The best time to view waterfalls is usually in fanny pack for water rocky, wet trails. Tennis shoes and walking shoes are better. snow. Experience winter's silence, and then soft mats of green include trout lily, early the spring, when ground water levels are bottles and snacks. the roar of the falls. Hiking boots are best. saxifrage, miterwort, high from snowmelt Leave the rocks, mosses, wild columbine, violet, and rainfall. As the sea­ • Don't climb on or near the falls. Rocks exposed to continual plants, insects, and salamanders where you find them. Keep and jewelweed. son becomes drier, the water spray can be quite slippery, even if they look dry. your feet on the trail or on dry, exposed rock surfaces. 7Z&v&l> 4A0M / IcdaetT thete' aiad ca4axde< zona*, the' tow toorvMru*, water levels dip. Some Streams with waterfalls waterfalls are down to a / can be good habitat for the- loa/Urt&, the- Aeorv totv&Ut ctadu^O' ol the coot wate% 'Uxzhury* trickle by mid-summer. brook trout. This If you don't want to be native fish prefers cold, ertMUZrw* ftovw loUw to Atrtv &&rwx£h t/U6ed M&Uz**. -John Muir disappointed, check at a clear water that is rich visitor center before in dissolved oxygen. heading out. Rangers The constant churning mav not know the exact condition of a particular waterfall, but One of the most frequently asked questions at Shenandoah National Park visitor centers is. . . of water in the plunge pool at the base of the falls enriches the they can tell you about recent dry or rainy spells. water's oxygen supply. The fish also find resting and hiding places in the pools. If you make the journey as important as the destination, there's "Where's the nearest waterfall?" no need to be disappointed if the falls are not at their best. Look The booklet Hikes to Waterfalls in Shenandoah National Park The numerous falls of the Blue Ridge played an important role around as you go. Wildflowers may be as close as the edge of the in the creation of Shenandoah National Park. Promoters in the is the best-selling item in the inventory of the Shenandoah trail. Butterflies might be drifting over the stream. Fish may be National Park Association. This and other hiking guides can 1920s and '30s emphasized the waterfalls here, in addition to fanning their fins in clear pools. Take time to listen. Birds may be be purchased in the park at entrance stations, visitor centers, high peaks and scenic valley views. They took commissioners flitting in the branches or singing overhead. Chipmunks could be concession facilities, or online at www.snpbooks.org and politicians to spots with significant natural resources, skittering across log highways. including Whiteoak Canyon, a rugged ravine with six impressive waterfalls. They showed breathtaking photographs and film And, if you're lucky, you can take home the memory of the footage to a public that was largely unaware that such wild sweet music of the waterfall, as naturalist John Muir did over a beauty existed so close to large cities. century ago.

4 Shenandoah Overlook 2005 Visitor Services

September 30 - October 23 This schedule effective Skyland South River (Miles 41.7 and 42.5) 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (Mon-Fri) (Mile 62.6) until November 27, 2005 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. (Sat/Sun) Lodges, restaurants, waysides, gift shops,OCDEIBG 3 Gas/Campstore/Gift Shop campstores, stables, and showers are operated September 6 - September 29 by ARAMARK, the official park concessioner.Marc h 24 - November 27 (noon) South River and all other picnic grounds Skyland offers visitors a variety of October 24 - November 27 in the park are open year-round. lodging, from comfortable rooms 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Restrooms overlooking the valley to rustic historic September 30 - October 23 are available cabins to spacious suites. 9:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. (Mon-Fri) Loft Mountain Area at all facilities. 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. (Sat/Sun) (Mile 79.5) Dining Room Dickey Ridge Breakfast Showers/Laundry/Woodyard (Mile 4.6) 7:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. September 6 - November 6 Lunch 7:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. (Sun-Thurs) 12:00 noon -2:30 p.m. 7:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. (Fri/Sat) QOH 12:00 noon - 3:30 p.m. (Oct. Sat/Sun) November 7 - November 26 Information Center - CLOSED Visitor Center Dinner 7:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. (Fri/Sat) September 5 - October 31 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. (Sun-Thur) November 27: 7:30 - noon Wayside 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Daily) 5:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. (Fri/Sat) May 6 - October 30 November 1- 27: Closed Tue/Wed Big Meadows Lodge The Wayside has a dining room, gift Closed Thanksgiving Day Gift Shop April 28 - November 6 (noon) shop, and gasoline. 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m Big Meadows offers rooms in the lodge, rustic cabins, motel-type rooms, and Mathews Arm modern suites. Gas/Food/Gift Shop (Mile 22.2) Taproom September 6 - October 30 2:30 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. (Sun-Thurs) (Food service ends and last call at 10:30 p.m.) Dining Room 9:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. (Fri/Sat) Breakfast September 6 - November 6 Campground Stables (540)-999-2210 7:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Campground May 27 - October 30 (noon) September 6 - November 26 May 20 - October 30 (noon) Lunch No trailer hookups. There is sewage 9:15 a.m. (Sat/Sun only), 10:30 a.m., No trailer hookups, but there is sewage September 6 - September 29 disposal. First-come, first-served. $16 12:30 p.m., 1:45 p.m., 3:00 p.m. disposal. First-come, first-served. $16 12:00 noon - 2:00 p.m. (Sat/Sun) September 30 - November 5 Campstore Elkwallow Big Meadows Area 12:00 noon - 2:00 p.m. (Daily) Dinner The campstore, near Loft Mountain (Mile 24.1) (Milepost 51 and mile 51.2) 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. (Sun-Thur) campground, offers camping supplies, 5:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. (Fri/Sat) wood, ice, groceries, and shower/laundry. 9CDQEISIO aeaaEo September 6 - September 29 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. March 25 - October 30 (6:30 p.m.) Taproom September 30 - October 29 The Wayside offers breakfast and September 6 - November 5 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. (Sun-Thurs) lunch/dinner selections, with outdoor QSOl 4:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. (Mon-Fri) 2:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. (Sat/Sun) 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. (Fri/Sat) seating and groceries, wood, ice, gifts, Harry F. Byrd, Sr. Visitor Center (Food service ends and last call at 10:30 p.m.) camper supplies, and gasoline. September 5 - October 31 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Daily) Showers/Laundry Gift Shop September 6 - October 29 Food Service November 1 - 27: Closed Wed/Thur 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. 7:30 a.m. -8:00 p.m. September 6 - September 29 October 30: 7:30 a.m. - 12:00 noon 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Campground September 30 - October 30 March 25 - November 27 (noon) Lewis Mountain 9:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. No trailer hookups, but there is sewage (Mile 57.6) Dundo disposal. Reservations can be made up (Mile 83.7) All Other Services to five months in advance by calling (800) 365-CAMP or online at September 6 - September 29 ascsaon http://reservations.nps.gov $19 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. April 29 - October 30 (noon) Dundo Group Campground September 30 - October 30 Lewis Mountain has housekeeping April 15 - October 30 (noon) 9:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Wayside cabins with covered patios, picnic March 25 - November 27 (5:30 p.m.) tables, and grills. Other services: gro­ A primitive group campground. The Wayside houses a full-service ceries, gifts, wood, ice/showers/laundry. Reservations are required. Call (800) 365-CAMP, or online, Panorama dining room with carryout service. Campground http://reservations.nps.gov $32 (Mile 31.5) Other services include a gift shop, No trailer hookups or sewage disposal. $16 campstore, and gasoline. Closed for construction All Services Lodging Reservations September 6 - September 29 Wayside Dining Room 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Pinnacles Breakfast September 30 - October 30 (Mile 36.7) September 6 - November 27 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (Sun-Thurs) 9:00 a.m.- 11:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. (Fri/Sat) Lunch/Dinner October 30: (800) 999-4714 (toll free) September 6 - September 29 Campstore Only: 9 a.m. - 12:00 noon (540) 743-5108 (local) Pinnacles and all other picnic grounds October 24 - November 27 in the park are open year-round. 11:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. (Cabins close Sunday, October 30, at noon) www.visitshonancioah.com

6 Shenandoah Overlook 2005 Historically Speaking ARAMARK Events Escaping Washington

Continuing a tradition set by George Freeman Pollock, who founded a resort at Skyland long before Shenandoah National Park was established, ARAMARK, the park's concessioner, offers a variety of activi­ ties for visitors. A few of the offered events are highlighted here. For a full list of activities and their dates and times, see ARAMARK's activities brochure, or call the concessioner at (800) 999-4714, or visit the website at www.visitshenandoah.com / have never seen him happier than when he was on the Rapidan. Virginia Wine Tasting aide speaking of President For those 21 and older, Virginia wineries host wine tastings at ake an historic escape part of your trip to Shenandoah National Park. One of former President Herbert Hoover's Big Meadows Lodge Mfavorite places to escape from the pressures of Washington, D.C., was Rapidan Camp, nestled in the Blue Ridge and at Skyland Mountains along the beautiful . President and Mrs. Hoover donated the camp for the park when his term as Resort. A charge president ended. of $8.50 per The camp is nearing the end of a multi-year restoration and historic refurnishing. Visitors can see the President's cabin, person includes The Brown House, as it was during the Hoovers' time there, rustically and simply furnished by First Lady Lou Henry assorted cheeses Hoover. It's easy to see why the first couple escaped to Rapidan to fish the cool mountain streams, walk along the ridges, plus a hand­ and relax in seclusion from the heat and hustle of Washington. A new exhibit planned for the Prime Minister's cabin will crafted glass to take home. Call for acquaint visitors with the Hoovers, revealing the stony of their connection with nature and commitment to public service. dates and reservations. Visitors to today's Rapidan Camp can experience yesterday's escape. A four-mile hike or a van ride from Byrd Visitor Tea With the First Ladies Center (check Ranger Program Schedule for days and times) will take you to this presidential retreat to discover its Historian Babs Melton, director of special qualities, to relax, and to return rejuvenated. the Museum of American Presidents, takes tea sippers on a journey Cabin Restoration through the history of two of America's he park concessioner, ARAMARK, has completed restoration of three most spirited historic Skyland cabins. Whispering Pines, Vollmer, and Peak View women, Lou T cabins were all built near or on lots originally owned by Skyland investor Hoover and Robinson Bosler in 1911 and 1912. Although initially single-family cabins, Eleanor the buildings were subdivided into multiple family units in the 1930s and Roosevelt. additionally altered in the 1970s. Desserts from the First Ladies' favorite recipes Restoration entailed conversion of the historic cabins back to single and a variety of teas are served. At family units retaining much of the original plan and historic detail. The units feature large Big Meadows Lodge. $12 per person. living rooms and oak-paneled interiors, kitchenettes, gas fireplaces, and in the case of Whispering Pines, full access Call for dates and reservations. for guests with disabilities. The original porches, once a characteristic rustic detail at Skyland, have been reconstructed. I RC WUIWR1 OI WtMHHC The three cabins, as well as the historic area of Skyland, were Marlene A. Condon, entered in the National Register of Historic Places in 2003. nature writer and photographer, will present a 45-minute slide/narrative Whispering Pines Cabin show about the wildlife activities that keep the natural world functioning. In the Massanutten Room in Big Meadows Lodge. FREE. Call for dates and reservations.

Discover many more events at www.visitshenandoah.com

Shenandoah Overlook 2005 / FALL RANGER PROGRAMS

September September 5 - September 30, 2005 Sky land Area (miles 41.7 and 42.5) SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT

Massanutten Lodge and Historic Skyiand - The figures and forces of the early days of Skyiand Resort come to life in this tour of a cabin restored to its 1916 appearance. 10:30 a.m. 3:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m. 1 hour. 15-person limit. Meet at Skyiand Conference Hall for the short stroll to the cabin. a

Story of the Limberlost - Stories of change, loss, and hope are found in this dramatic 10:30 a.m. 10:30 a.m. forest. 1.2 miles. 1.5 hrs. Meet at the Limberlost Trailhead (milepost 43). a Stony Man Hike - Some of the most incredible views are closer than you think! Wear sturdy shoes and bring water. 1.6 miles. 2 hrs. Meet at the Stony Man Trailhead 2:00 p.m. (mile 41.7, the north entrance to Skyiand Resort). Evening Campfire Program - Join a ranger for this well-loved National Park Service 8:00 p.m. tradition. 45 minutes. Skyiand Amphitheater. a Big Meadows Area (milepost 51) SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT

Presidential Outing - Travel by van 6 miles to Rapidan Camp, President Hoover's summer retreat. 3 hrs. 13-person limit. Reserve by phone (540-999-3283) or in person 1:30 p.m. 9:00 a.m. 1:30 p.m. 1:30 p.m. at Byrd Visitor Center. m

More Than a Meadow - Discover the wonders of the unique, 130-acre meadow on 2:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. this gentle walk. 1 mile. 1.5 hrs. Meet at Byrd Visitor Center. Appalachian Trail Hike - Hike a portion of the famous mountain trail and discover its fascinating story. Learn how the 2,000-mile footpath has touched the lives of thousands 2:00 p.m. of people. 2 miles. 2 hrs. Meet at Milam Gap Parking Area (mile 52.8).

At Home in the Wild - Both humans and animals have called Shenandoah home. Hear one of the amazing stories of mountain inhabitants. 30-minute talk. Topics vary. 10:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m. Byrd Visitor Center Terrace. m

Discovery Walk - Explore what's blooming, peeping, crawling, or singing this week! 3:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 1 hr. Meet at Byrd Visitor Center. Junior Ranger Program - Unlock the mysteries of Shenandoah through fun and 3:00 p.m. educational activities geared for kids ages 7-12. 1.5 hrs. Meet at Byrd Visitor Center. Evening Campfire Program - Join a ranger for this well-loved National Park Service 8:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. tradition. 45 minutes. Big Meadows Amphitheater. m

October October 1-• October 23, 2005 Skyiand Area (miles 41.7 and 42.5) SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT

Massanutten Lodge and Historic Skyiand - The figures and forces of the early days of Skyiand Resort come to life in this tour of a cabin restored to its 1916 appearance. 10:30 a.m. 10:30 a.m. 1 hour. 15-person limit. Meet at Skyiand Conference Hall for the short stroll to the cabin. a

Story of the Limberlost - Stories of change, loss, and hope are found in this dramatic 10:30 a.m. 2:00 p.m. forest. 1.2 miles. 1.5 hrs. Meet at the Limberlost Trailhead (milepost 43). a Big Meadows Area (milepost 51) SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT

Presidential Outing - Travel by van 6 miles to Rapidan Camp, President Hoover's summer retreat. 3 hrs. 13-person limit. Reserve by phone (540-999-3283) or in person 9:00 a.m. 1:30 p.m. 9:00 a.m. at Byrd Visitor Center. a Junior Ranger Program - Unlock the mysteries of Shenandoah through fun and 3:00 p.m. educational activities geared for kids ages 7-12. 1.5 hrs. Meet at Byrd Visitor Center. More Than a Meadow - Discover the wonders of the unique, 130-acre meadow on 2:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m. this gentle walk. 1 mile. 1.5 hrs. Meet at Byrd Visitor Center. Discovery Walk - Explore what's blooming, peeping, crawling, or singing this week! 10:00 a.m. 1 hr. Meet at Byrd Visitor Center. Hawksbill Mountain Hike - Hike to the highest peak in the park for a panoramic view of the Shenandoah Valley. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water. 2.1 miles. 2 hrs. Meet at 2:00 p.m. Upper Hawksbill Parking Area (mile 46.7). Evening Campfire Program - Join a ranger for this well-loved National Park Service 8:00 p.m. tradition. 45 minutes. Big Meadows Amphitheater. a Programs will be cancelled in the event of lightning or other extreme conditions. 8 Shenandoah Overlook 2005