Detailed hikers’ guides and maps of the trail system can be ordered by mail. (See [p. 22], PREPARING FOR YOUR VISIT.)
Horseback riding.
There are about 25 miles of scenic horse trails in the park. Horses (and ponies for children) can be rented at hourly rates at Skyland and Big Meadows.
Photography.
A filter is advisable when you are taking panoramic views, for haze is often present without your even noticing it. You will get better definition and more interesting shadows if you take your pictures in the morning or late afternoon, rather than in the flat light of midday.
With a long exposure you can get most dramatic photographs at sunset when the trees and rocks stand out against the western sky in silhouette. Don’t be afraid to go out and shoot black-and-white film in the fog or during a storm; cloud effects often are more striking than ever. If you want good pictures of wildlife, a telephoto lens will help.
Fishing.
The fun of fishing awaits the eager angler along the park streams. There, to try your skill, are native brook trout. At the park entrance stations you can get rules and regulations governing angling and also directions to fishing waters. You will need a Virginia fishing license. A 3-day limit, nonresident trout fishing license is available at all concession units in the park for $3.
Picnicking.
Campers and picnickers come from all over to take advantage of Shenandoah’s superb facilities for 9 months of the year. Fireplaces make it easy to prepare steaks or fish or even pancakes. Your frying pan rests on a grill as steady as your own stove. Choose one of the picnic areas along the drive for your evening meal, and then walk out and watch the sunset. (Picnic grounds are noted on the map, pp. [10]-13.)