Shenandoah River State Park

Located about 8 miles south of Front Royal along the banks of the Shenandoah River, Shenandoah River State Park features about 23 miles of trails that range from flat, smooth double track trails along the river to more difficult mountainous terrain with some steep climbs and descents on sometimes technical single track trails. 

Our favorite section of trail at Shenandoah River State Park is Bear Bottom Loop Trail, which is smooth and flowing with a fun downhill section. For best results, we have found that riding this loop counter-clockwise is the most fun. (Note that, despite the trail name, we have never seen any bear bottoms, or for that matter, any other bear parts while riding this trail...)

The setting of this park is beautiful - there are ample views of the Shenandoah River snaking its way north, plus views of both Massanutten Mountain to the west and the Blue Ridge Mountains of Shenandoah National Park to the east. A spacious picnic area has shelters and tables in the shade of oak and hemlock trees overlooking the river. Several canoe launches are located throughout the park, including several in the cozy tent camping area. If you wish to stay for several days, tent and camper sites are available.  If you desire a less rustic way to spend your evenings, you can stay in one of the modern cabins with all of the amenities and creature comforts that have views of the Shenandoah River thrown in for good measure.