One of the most iconic American regions, the Shenandoah Valley has served as a home to presidents, a cradle of colonial America, a battleground during the Civil War, and a crucible for the United States' recovery from the Great Depression. It's also a lush, dramatic, ruggedly beautiful area, with access for hikers of all skill levels to see the landscapes close up that shaped our nation's history. Whether you're an avid backpacker or you seek adventure in your own backyard, this must-have resource covers the entirety of the Shenandoah Valley, with 50 curated hiking routes exploring Harpers Ferry, Shenandoah National Park, Massanutten Mountain, and more. Hikes range from easy walks of a few miles with little elevation gain to more demanding treks through challenging terrain.
Jennifer Adach is the co-author of AMC's Best Day Hikes Near Washington, D.C. She's hiked extensively throughout the Mid-Atlantic area and around the world. Michael R. Martin is a lifelong backpacker and outdoorsman and the author of AMC's Best Backpacking in the Mid-Atlantic. Both Jennifer and Michael live in Alexandria, Virginia.