Exploring South District Hikes In Shenandoah National Park

The most remote area of Shenandoah National Park.

The South District of Shenandoah National Park, often referred to as the park’s most remote area, offers a unique experience despite the presence of Skyline Drive, which cuts 44 miles through this part of the park. Along the route, you'll find developed areas like the Loft Mountain campgrounds, a camp store, and a picnic area at Dundo.

Located between the Swift Run Gap entrance station to the north and Rockfish Gap to the south, the South District stands out due to its larger proportion of federally designated wilderness areas compared to the park’s North and Central Districts. This designation ensures a more secluded, backcountry experience, ideal for those seeking solitude.

A few weeks ago, I made my way to the South District not necessarily for that remote experience, but because I had limited time to explore. I had two simple goals for this short trip: First, I wanted to enjoy breakfast with a view. Second, I hoped to hike a trail I hadn’t yet explored.

From Rockfish Gap to Jarman Gap, Skyline Drive runs through the narrowest section of the park, with the boundary of Shenandoah National Park just a few hundred feet from the road. This stretch of Skyline Drive was originally part of the Blue Ridge Parkway and was deeded to Shenandoah National Park in the early '60s. For a deeper understanding of this area, take a moment to read about the history of the Road to Nowhere to learn more about this section of the South District.

I entered the South District from the Rockfish Gap entrance station and headed north on Skyline Drive. My first stop was the parking area at Beagle Gap, located between mile markers 100 and 99 on Skyline Drive.

An interesting fact about this area: Bear Den Mountain, Little Calf Mountain, and Calf Mountain are not part of Shenandoah National Park, but rather fall within the boundaries of the Appalachian Trail Park. This section of land is included in the National Park Service’s inventory, adding an intriguing layer to the park’s diverse landscape.

The dodgeway is the gateway to start the hike into the meadow.

From the parking lot, enter the meadow through the dodgeway. Follow the Appalachian Trail as it winds across the meadow. This area was once part of the Royal Orchard, so keep your eye out near the top of the meadow for a few surviving Albemarle Pippin apple trees, remnants of the orchard's past.

 Spicebush Swallowtail.

The hike to the summit of Little Calf Mountain is easy and ideal for both families and experienced hikers. No matter the length of the hike, I always carry a map with me. PATC Map #11 covers the South District, but note that the map doesn’t reflect a re-route of the Appalachian Trail on Little Calf Mountain that occurred in August 2012, so be aware of that discrepancy. This out-and-back hike spans about 2 miles with a modest 378 feet of elevation gain. It typically takes between 45 minutes to an hour to complete.

Brewing up coffee on a Camping Gaz Turbo 270.

The summit of Little Calf Mountain rises to 2,910 feet. Typically, the meadow at the top is mowed, but on this visit, it had been left a bit overgrown. The meadow offers great views of Bear Den Mountain, which I recommend as a perfect companion hike. On clear days, the summit also provides panoramic views of Nelson County to the southeast and the City of Waynesboro along with the valley to the southwest.

I found a fantastic spot just off the Appalachian Trail at the summit to enjoy breakfast and brew a cup of coffee. For this, I used my Camping Gaz Turbo 270 Stove. It’s a bit old school, but it works perfectly with a 100g canister for shorter trips.

Hiking back down the trail you are reminded that you are not hiking in SNP. 

Back at my vehicle, I check my map and quickly come up with a plan for my next hike. It looks like Turk Mountain Trail will help me accomplish my second goal of the day. At just under 5 miles from my current location, I head north toward the parking lot at Turk Gap.

Turk Mountain Trail is a blue-blazed side trail, offering an out-and-back hike of about 2 miles with 378 feet of elevation gain. From the parking lot, cross Skyline Drive to pick up the Appalachian Trail. Head south for a short 0.2 miles, then take the blue-blazed trail on your right to begin your hike.

Wildflowers line the trail.

At this time of year, Turk Mountain Trail is still lined with a variety of wildflowers along the path. For the first two-thirds of the trail, it looks much like the scene in the picture above, with lush vegetation and vibrant blooms. However, as you approach the first talus field, the terrain changes. The final third of the trail becomes increasingly rocky, making the one-mile stretch feel much longer than it actually is.

The view from the summit of Turk Mountain.

Turk Mountain offers two scenic overlooks. Before reaching the summit, a small overlook faces east, while the summit provides views to the west. I had planned to enjoy the eastern view on my way back down the trail, but with other hikers already there, I decided it was safer to move on, especially given the ongoing concerns around COVID.

Although both hikes were relatively short, they gave me exactly what I was hoping for in the limited time I had. I was pleasantly surprised by what Turk Mountain Trail had to offer — from wildflowers to talus fields and stunning summit views.

Trail Notes:

• Activity: Day Hiking
• Route/Place: Appalachian Trail / Turk Mountain Trail
• Activity Type: Day Hiking
• Trail Difficulty Rating:
  • Little Calf Mountain: Easy & Kid-Friendly
  • Turk Mountain Trail: Easy to Moderate with a short rock scramble
• Trail Conditions: The Appalachian Trail is well-maintained, with clear signage and white blazes. Turk Mountain Trail is also well-maintained, featuring a section marked with Appalachian Trail white blazes before switching to blue blazes on the Turk Mountain Trail.
• Trip Results: Successful
• Road Conditions: Accessible for all vehicles — access fee required.

What you need to know before you go.

Shenandoah National Park Fees

Shenandoah National Park Map

National Park Service History Culture- Road to Nowhere.

Report Trail Issues

Navigate over to our other related articles on hikes in The South District of Shenandoah National Park

• Day Hikes Around Beagle Gap 

Now It's Your Turn-

Leave a comment about hikes you have done in the South District. What is your favorite trail or loop?