News Release

Shenandoah National Park celebrates Wilderness heritage

Date: August 28, 2024
Contact: Karl Rand, 540-999-3500 ext.3482

Luray, Va – Shenandoah National Park will honor America’s wilderness heritage with special programs throughout the week. Join the celebration by viewing Shenandoah’s wilderness from Skyline Drive, hiking a trail, joining a ranger program, or exploring visitor center exhibits. 

Ranger programs will focus on what makes wilderness special during evening programs Thursday, August 29, at Mathews Arm Campground (7:30 p.m., mile 22.1) and Tuesday, September 3, at Big Meadows Amphitheater (8:30 p.m., mile 51). At Dickey Ridge Visitor Center (mile 4.6), join Rangers for wilderness-focused programs on the terrace at 11:00 a.m., August 31 through September 3. At the visitor center at Big Meadows (mile 51), join a Ranger for a guided patio program September 3, at 1:30 p.m.

Throughout Saturday, September 7, visit the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club table at the visitor center at Big Meadows (mile 51) to learn more about the volunteer organization that helps keep Shenandoah’s trails pristine.

On September 3, 1964, the Wilderness Act was signed to preserve pristine natural areas for human recreation, wildlife habitat, and scientific research. This year commemorates the 48th anniversary of Shenandoah’s own wilderness designation. Forty percent of the Park, or nearly 80,000 acres, is designated under the National Wilderness Preservation System, which now protects more than 111 million acres throughout the United States.

All events are free, and no reservations are needed. However, there is an entrance fee to Shenandoah National Park.