Читать книгу Top Trails: Shenandoah National Park - Johnny Molloy - Страница 18

Shenandoah has a somewhat undeserved reputation of being overcrowded. Yes, Skyline Drive and its overlooks and facilities can be crowded during summer, on warm season weekends, and on holidays. And it’s true that the roads can also be busy during the October leaf-viewing season. Get a quarter mile from a trailhead on 95% of the hiking trails, however, and you’ll experience solitude. Busy trails—and there are a number of them—are noted in the trail descriptions.

Shenandoah National Park is a four-season destination. Hikers with well-thought-out plans can easily execute their treks beyond the obvious busy times. Try to hike midweek and just before or after major holidays. Spring is a great time, with its renewing vibrancy exemplified by colorful wildflowers and budding trees, as the season of renewal climbs the mountains from low to high. Fall can be rewarding, too, but avoid October weekends. Solitude can be found anytime during winter. As far as busy trails go, try to hike them early in the morning or later in the evening. Iffy weather—that is, a 50% or more chance of rain—often keeps the crowds away. If you can, avoid busy trails on nice-weather weekends.