Rock Climbing in Shenandoah National Park: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

Encompassing the Blue Ridge Mountains in the northwestern portion of the U.S. state of Virginia, Shenandoah National Park offers some of the best rock climbing available in the region.

Starting from the Shenandoah Valley floor, Stony Man (1,223 meters) and Old Rag (1,000 meters) are two excellent rock climbing destinations. Both are great climbing options for intermediate level rock climbers and provide incredible views from their summits.

Stony Man offers some great trad climbing options up to its superb summit. Meanwhile, Old Rag also boats the Crackin route, which is another, more challenging way to climb the peak and is best suited for those comfortable on 5.11d rated routes.

Away from mountain peaks, there are also plenty of boulders, glacial erratics to be specific, that litter the floor of the national park. For those looking for some fun and challenging problems to solve, Shenandoah is the place to be.

Stunning scenery

While there are numerous rock climbing locales across the U.S., few match the natural splendor of Shenandoah National Park. Climbing with the backdrop of rolling mountains and thick green forests as far as the eye can see is incredible. Once you reach the top of a rugged peak, enjoy these splendid views. The approaches aren’t too shabby either, with various waterfalls scattered throughout the park.

Skyline Drive

When you are not out on the rocks take the time to make the iconic 170 kilometer trip down Skyline Drive. Running through the heart of the park, along the ridge of the mountains, the road boasts some of the best views in the park and is a great way to see this stunningly scenic part of the country. The road also serves as a good starting point for hikes and rock climbing adventures. Meander your way down slowly or do the whole thing in less than a day.

Fall foliage

Among the best times of year to head to Shenandoah National Park for a rock climbing adventure is in the autumn. Come October the leaves on the trees begin to change and create a sea of crimson, burnt orange and yellow-green. Climbing up above the treeline is the best way to see this incredible natural phenomena and take in some of the best fall foliage outside of New England. Don’t forget to pack your camera, and some extra batteries too!

During the summer, the average daily temperatures range from 17 ºC to 20 ºC. Summer is also the wettest time of year, with an average of 100 to 150 millimeters of rain falling in the park each month.

Most trips to Shenandoah National Park will begin with a flight into Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). From here, the national park is a bit over an hour away by car.

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