Limberlost Trail Review – An Easy Hike

Last Sunday, my husband and I decided to take a ride up to Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. It was a beautiful, warm day and besides, they have great food at their restaurants. After eating, I decided to take a hike while my husband took a nap!

An easy trail to hike which is just south of the Skyland Resort is the Limberlost Trail.  It is a wheel chair and handicap accessible trail, just about a mile long.  It is fairly level and offers a variety of landscapes.

Trail Stats

Trail Stats	Info
Length	1.3 miles
Difficulty	Easy
Trail Type	Loop
Elevation Gain	98 feet
Duration	30-60 minutes
Terrain	Crushed greenstone
Pets Allowed?	No
Fee	$30 per vehicle (good for seven days)

An Easy Hike

This 1.3-mile loop trail is a dream for amateur walkers or maybe families with young kids. A gentle pathway, crushed greenstone providing a stable and comfortable surface beneath your feet, leading you through a forest. With minimal elevation change, the walk is practically effortless, allowing you to focus on the sights and sounds around you.

The first part of the trail is bordered by mountain laurel.  They are so beautiful and usually at their peak in the middle of June.  Its clusters of pink or white flowers add a touch of elegance to the scenery. You will also find many wildflowers blooming in the springtime. Look for delicate trilliums carpeting the forest floor, or vibrant patches of columbine adding splashes of color.

Family and wheelchair friendly

One of the most remarkable aspects of Limberlost is its inclusivity. The trail is fully wheelchair and stroller-friendly, making it a fantastic option for families with young children or those seeking an easy going adventure.

Benches For Your Relaxation

The trail has benches about every 400 feet.  This is a bonus for those who just want to sit a spell and enjoy the sights and smells of the woods.  As you progress down the trail, you will come to an area where there are a number of very large trees that were blown down during  Tropical Storm Fran in 1996.  The uprooted trees caused a lot of trail erosion, but it was repaired the following year.  Soon you will come to a footbridge that passes over a small stream.

Stream

As you complete the trail loop, you pass through an area that used to be a thick hemlock forest.  Unfortunately the wooly adelgid, an invasive insect, has destroyed many of these magnificent trees.  There is still a variety of trees to enjoy, such as maples, white pines and birches.

Timings

The hike took about an hour, but I took my time, stopping to take pictures and have a rest.  You don’t want to rush through this lovely trail.

My Tips for a Smooth Journey

• Prepare for Company: Since this is a popular trail, especially during peak seasons (spring and fall), expect to share the path with other visitors. Be courteous and maintain a comfortable pace, allowing others to enjoy the experience as well.
• No pets: Limberlost is one of the few trails in the park that doesn’t allow pets (service animals are welcome). Leaving your furry friend at home for this walk will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
• Fuel Up: Pack some water and snacks for your walk, especially if you’re exploring with children. Staying hydrated and energized will enhance your enjoyment of the trail.
• Rest and Recharge: Restrooms are available near the trailhead, so you can comfortably plan your outing.

Extending Your Limberlost Adventure

If you’re up for a slightly more challenging adventure, consider venturing onto the Whiteoak Canyon Trail, which intersects with Limberlost at the 1.1-mile mark. Whiteoak Canyon Trail offers more elevation change and scenic overlooks, providing a taste of a more traditional hiking experience.

Ready to Lace Up?

The Limberlost Trail is a delightful introduction to the wonders of Shenandoah National Park. With its accessible path, beautiful scenery, and diverse wildlife, it offers an easy experience for walkers of all ages and abilities. Give it a go!