Getting to Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park sits in VA, United States, with Stanley the nearest town of any size — about 8.8 mi (14.2 km) out, or roughly 24 min of driving.
Shenandoah National Park does not gate the entrance itself. Specific roads, hikes, or tours still need a permit or timed ticket.
Drive times from Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park sits close enough to New River Gorge National Park that one drive from home can cover more than one park.
| Park | Apart | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| New River Gorge National Park | 151 mi (244 km) | 4 hr 2 min |
Long trails through this park
Appalachian Trail crosses Shenandoah National Park. The published corridor is GA–ME.
- Appalachian Trail — official trail site.
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Stanley | 8.8 mi (14.2 km) | 24 min |
| Luray | 11.1 mi (17.8 km) | 30 min |
| New Market | 19.2 mi (30.9 km) | 45 min |
| Culpeper | 19.5 mi (31.4 km) | 46 min |
| Mount Jackson | 21.7 mi (34.9 km) | 49 min |
| Orange | 23.5 mi (37.9 km) | 53 min |
| Woodstock | 25.7 mi (41.4 km) | 56 min |
| Front Royal | 28.1 mi (45.2 km) | 1 hr |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Shenandoah National Park?
Stanley, about 8.8 mi (14.2 km) away — roughly 24 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Shenandoah National Park?
The practical bases are Stanley, Luray, and New Market — all within a reasonable drive of the park.