Shenandoah Recommendations – 3 nights, waterfalls, swimming holes, secluded

[Joseph K]

Planning on heading down to Shenandoah this weekend for the first time. I'm looking for some recommendations for trip routes. I'd like to spend 3 nights backcountry and hike anywhere from 6-10 miles/day. North or central parts of the park would be preferable.

I was looking at trying to loop together whiteoak canyon loop and old rag, but am worried about crowds. My ideal trip would be secluded with some nice waterfalls and swimming holes along the way. I'll be spending sat, sun, and mon nights on the trail.

Recommendations would be greatly appreciated! Also, for those who've been recently, how were the mosquitoes/ticks?

[Hiking Malto]

The Big run area is likely going to be one of more isolated areas if you are looking to avoid crowds. It is just west of Loft Mnt campground. Should be great blueberries on the ridge just sw of the valley. Yum

[Joseph K]

That sounds great. Wild blueberries would be a welcome addition! Any thoughts on Nicholson and Hazel Wilderness? South part of the park is probably a bit far for me, but worthwhile if it's substantially more secluded. I'm coming from Philly, so thought somewhere north/central would be ideal.

[Joseph K]

Alternative ideas are welcome also. I'm a little concerned about all the things I'm reading about tics in SNP.

I'd be willing to go north as well to the Adirondacks or Vermont if anyone has suggestions. Trying to limit the driving time from Philly to about 5 hrs max.

[Joseph K]

wound up hiking hannah run-nicholson hollow-indian run-old rag fire road-meadows horse trail-white oak canyon down-white oak canyon back up to AT-down nicholson hollow-corbin cutoff-AT-hannah run trailhead

i'll try to put together a full report, but feel free to reach out with any questions

[Author]

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