How much does a one-week (7 days) trip to Shenandoah National Park cost?

A one week trip to Shenandoah National Park costs $1,015 per person on average. This information comes from the actual expenses of travelers and includes accommodation, food, local transportation, sightseeing, and other typical travel costs.

How much does a two-week (14 days) trip to Shenandoah National Park cost?

Two weeks in Shenandoah National Park costs $2,030 per person on average. This information comes from the actual expenses of travelers and includes accommodation, food, local transportation, sightseeing, and other typical travel costs.

How much does a one-month (4 weeks) trip to Shenandoah National Park cost?

One month in Shenandoah National Park costs $4,350 per person on average. This information comes from the actual expenses of travelers and includes accommodation, food, local transportation, sightseeing, and other typical travel costs.

How much do hotels cost in Shenandoah National Park?

The average daily cost per person, per day for Accommodation in Shenandoah National Park is $53

How much does transportation cost in Shenandoah National Park?

The average daily cost per person, per day for Transportation in Shenandoah National Park is $70

How much does food cost in Shenandoah National Park?

The average daily cost per person, per day for Food in Shenandoah National Park is $49

How much do alcoholic beverages cost in Shenandoah National Park?

The average daily cost per person, per day for Alcohol in Shenandoah National Park is $7.14

Shenandoah National Park Travel Cost - Average Price of a Vacation to Shenandoah National Park: Food & Meal Budget, Daily & Weekly Expenses

Q: How much does it cost to travel to Shenandoah National Park?

$145 is the average daily price for traveling in Shenandoah National Park. The average price of meals in Shenandoah National Park for one day is $49. The average price of local transportation in Shenandoah National Park for one day is $70. The average price of a hotel in Shenandoah National Park for a couple is $106.

Shenandoah National Park is a beautiful national park known for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. This will help you plan the best trip to Shenandoah National Park and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're hiking in nature or taking in the beauty.

How much does it cost to travel to Shenandoah National Park?

You should plan to spend around $145 per day on your vacation in Shenandoah National Park. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

$49 on meals
$70 on local transportation
$106 on hotels

A one week trip to Shenandoah National Park for two people costs, on average, $2,030. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

Travel Style:
Average Daily Cost Per person, per day

$145

One Week Per person

$1,015
2 Weeks Per person

$2,030
One Month Per person

$4,350
One Week For a couple

$2,030
2 Weeks For a couple

$4,060
One Month For a couple

$8,700

This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. .

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Shenandoah National Park cost?

A one week trip to Shenandoah National Park usually costs around $1,015 for one person and $2,030 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Shenandoah National Park on average costs around $2,030 for one person and $4,060 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Shenandoah National Park will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Shenandoah National Park on average costs around $4,350 for one person and $8,700 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Is Shenandoah National Park expensive to visit?

Shenandoah National Park is a terrific national park that captivates many with its charm, appealing to a wide range of travel styles and budgets. Budget-conscious travelers will find suitable hotel options, but there are also high-end hotels for those seeking luxury, plus mid-range accommodations for families or couples.

Shenandoah National Park can be very expensive if you want it to be, but there are ways to cut down on your costs, like enjoying the free hiking trails and finding more rustic accommodation.

On average, budget travelers spend $64 per day, mid-range travelers spend $145 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $278 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Shenandoah National Park.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Shenandoah National Park is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in North America for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Hope, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Key West.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Shenandoah National Park Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Shenandoah National Park?

The average Shenandoah National Park trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Shenandoah National Park travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Shenandoah National Park cost?

Shenandoah National Park on a Budget

Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Accommodation ¹ For 1 person in double occupancy	$23	$53	$102
Local Transportation ¹	$31	$70	$134
Food ²	$21	$49	$93
Entertainment ¹	$15	$34	$65
Alcohol ²	$2-5	$4-11	$7-20

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

It's important to set realistic expectations for your travel budget. Many assume they can get by cheaply in Shenandoah National Park, but most people don't enjoy traveling on a very tight budget. Think about how you like to travel, and whether you prefer resorts, hostels, or vacation rentals. Do activities like sightseeing and dining out matter to you? These factors will help shape your travel budget.

Shenandoah National Park on a Shoestring Budget?

You might think you're a budget traveler, but unless you're willing to sacrifice many comforts, expect to spend a lot more than the average of $64 per day that backpackers typically manage.

Younger budget travelers sometimes stick to a shoestring budget, which usually means staying in hostel dorms, eating at budget restaurants or fast food, relying on public transportation or walking, and limiting activities to free attractions.

Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?

If you're a family or couple enjoying a vacation, you'll most likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at trendy restaurants, and check out the main museums and attractions that charge for entry. A significant number of visitors to Shenandoah National Park will want to tour the main attractions, museums, and landmarks. Keep in mind that most activities have costs associated with them. Hence, you should realistically expect your daily budget to hover around $145 per person, per day.

Looking to Travel in Luxury?

If you're looking for a luxurious getaway that offers top-notch amenities and exceptional service, you should budget around $278 per day. To enjoy a nicer hotel, dine at renowned restaurants, indulge in extravagant activities, and use taxis or private drivers to explore the national park, prepare for a luxury price tag.

Accommodation Budget in Shenandoah National Park

Prices for hotels in Shenandoah National Park vary widely, with luxury hotels charging more due to higher amenities. In the off-season, expect to pay around $0, but during peak summer or fall season, average prices climb to $0. With options ranging from $0 to $0, there's something for every budget. Hostels are usually cheaper, especially dorm rooms. To save, book during the off-season or keep an eye out for special deals.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Shenandoah National Park for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $106. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $53 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

Accommodation¹ Hotel or hostel for one person

$53
Accommodation¹ Typical double-occupancy room

$106

Hotels in Shenandoah National Park

Looking for a hotel in Shenandoah National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a great destination for families, and you'll want to find an apartment or larger accommodation when traveling with kids.

Many visitors to Shenandoah National Park stay for a week, and if you're staying for an extended period, a vacation rental with a kitchen could help you prepare your own meals.

Traveling during the shoulder or low season, instead of summer or fall, can save you money on accommodations and spare you the heavy tourist crowds.

As ski season arrives, be prepared for price increases, so make sure to book in advance. Popular spots with easy access to the slopes can fill up quickly and may cost more.

Transportation Budget in Shenandoah National Park

Unfortunately, Shenandoah National Park does not provide a solid public transit network. There's no real public transit in the park.

Unfortunately, getting around the national park on foot can be quite challenging. While there are plenty of hiking trails, a car is a must to reach most trailheads.

Public Transit: (poor)
Walkability: (poor)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

On average, past travelers have spent $70 per person, per day, on local transportation in Shenandoah National Park. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Shenandoah National Park is significantly more than public transportation.
Transportation¹ Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.

$70

Transportation Tips

When driving, it's important to check that your hotel has good parking options.

Flights to Shenandoah National Park

How much does it cost to go to Shenandoah National Park? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Shenandoah National Park

The price of renting a car in Shenandoah National Park will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.

Food Budget in Shenandoah National Park

Food options are limited and not of the best quality in Shenandoah National Park. It's better not to spend too much money trying to eat out because there are other activities that are more worth your time. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

While restaurant and meal prices in Shenandoah National Park can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Shenandoah National Park is $49 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
Food² Meals for one day

$49

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Shenandoah National Park is around $49 ($49) per person, with previous travelers spending from $21 to $93. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Shenandoah National Park are as follows:

Breakfast: $5 to $15
Lunch: $7 to $19
Dinner: $15 to $34
Coffee: $4
Fast Food or Street Food: $7

For the most part, it is best to bring your own food into the park. There are six official picnic spots and other areas where visitors can eat their own food, as well as designated places with grates for building cooking fires. It is important to be well-stocked on food and water if you plan on being in the park for a few days, though there are camp stores located at or near all of the authorized camp ground areas if you do need to restock. As to places inside the park serving food, Elkwallow (mile 24.1) serves a small selection of sandwiches and grilled food, Skyland (mile 41.7) offers dining with a view in its own complex, Big Meadows Wayside (mile 51.2) offers eat-in and take-away with country food and cakes, Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51.2) has a rustic dining room, and Loft Mountain (mile 79.5) has dining with inside and outside seating.

Food & Dining Tips

If you're dining out with children, try to find restaurants that include a kids' menu. This can help you save quite a bit since those meals tend to be cheaper. Remember, some places may not highlight their kids' options, so don't forget to ask your waiter first.

Numerous hotels offer breakfast as part of the room rate, but some might charge extra for it. The cost and quality can differ from one hotel to another. Being aware of this beforehand can help you determine if you need to allocate additional funds. It could be worth it for a fantastic buffet at the hotel, or you might want to opt for a nearby bakery or cafe that's more budget-friendly.

Making a picnic is a fantastic way to save money and enjoy the views. Head to a local grocery store or market, pick up fresh goodies, and find a charming park or scenic area to eat your meal.

Opt for a water bottle rather than spending on drinks all the time. It's also a more sustainable choice.

If you're thinking about taking a tour, it's wise to check in advance which meals are covered. You may need to cover some of your own food costs, which could increase your overall budget.

Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Shenandoah National Park

The reason people visit Shenandoah National Park is clear, as it offers hiking, budget-friendly accommodations, family-friendly activities, and romance.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Shenandoah National Park typically cost an average of $34 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
Entertainment¹ Entrance tickets, shows, etc.

$34

Shenandoah National Park encompasses 300 square miles of the Blue Ridge Mountains of the Central Appalachians. The mountains of the park rise above Virginia Piedmont to its east and the Shenandoah Valley to its west, serving several habitats of highlands and lowlands for the wildlife of the region. The Appalachian Mountains are one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world, abundant in woodland and natural streams flowing from the mountains down.

The park has also long served as a refuge for wildlife with over 200 bird species both resident and migratory, more than 50 species of mammals, over 50 reptile and amphibian species, and about 35 species of fish. Some of the more commonly spotted animals in the park include bobcat, raccoon, striped skunk, grey squirrel, groundhog, deer, bear, and cottontail rabbit.

As far as scenery goes, Shenandoah is especially vibrant during the fall foliage months, though equally beautiful in spring when the wildflowers and trees are in full bloom.

Just taking the ride along Skyline Drive, which has been designated a National Scenic Byway, has become a popular activity for people visiting the park. Running 105 miles north and south along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains with a max speed limit of 35 mph, Skyline Drive can take about 3 hours to travel the length of the park. You can enter the drive at Front Royal near Rt. 66 and 340, Thornton Gap at Rt. 211, Swift Run Gap at Rt. 33, and Rockfish Gap at Rt. 64 which continues south as the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Hiking is another popular activity, with over 500 miles of hiking trails, including 100 miles of the well-known Appalachian Trail. Some of the more popular hikes include:

Old Rag: a 7.2-mile loop that covers forests, hollows, and a rocky peak with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Stony Man: a gentler, 1.6-mile scenic trail that ends in a beautiful overlook (mile 41.7 on Skyline Drive)

Little Stony Man: a 0.9-mile hike with gorgeous views (mile 39.1 on Skyline Drive)

Dark Hollow Falls: a 1.4 mile trail descending to a waterfall. The hike can be turned into a loop that reaches the Rose River Falls for a 3-hour hike through woods and along several streams with cascades and waterfalls (mile 50.7 on Skyline Drive)

Sightseeing Tips

Hiking:
The hiking paths in the vicinity of Shenandoah National Park are superb. There are more than 500 miles of trails in the park that pass through varied landscapes and take you to beautiful viewpoints. Visitors range from weekend visitors to long term hikers who come to experience the breathtaking beauty and serene setting.

Nightlife Budget in Shenandoah National Park

The nightlife in Shenandoah National Park is fairly quiet and relaxed. There are a number of breweries in the area, but most people enjoy stargazing and sitting by the campfire at night.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average person spends about $7.14 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Shenandoah National Park per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
Alcohol² Drinks for one day

$7.14

Nightlife Tips

Nightlife is a blast when traveling, but scaling back on drinks can really help stretch your travel budget.

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Shenandoah National Park

During the peak season of summer or fall, prices are typically elevated and the national park can be quite crowded. You can enjoy savings and a more relaxed atmosphere by visiting in the shoulder or low seasons instead.
Taking your time to travel can help you save, allowing you to relish the area's beauty while you unwind. Cramming too many activities into your day often leads to higher costs. By slowing down, you can typically enjoy your trip more while spending less.

Budgeting Challenges

Many visitors come for the area's skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. These activities can be expensive and there's not much flexibility to help you save money. Lift tickets, ski equipment, and peak-season hotel rooms will be a major part of your trip's budget. Also, double check your travel insurance to make sure it covers everything.
In Shenandoah National Park, public transport options are quite limited. You might consider renting a car or scheduling some form of transportation in advance, such as a tour. However, be aware that this may impact your budget elsewhere.
Don't count on finding many hostels in Shenandoah National Park. If you're set on saving money with a dorm stay, you may want to change your approach. A budget hotel or apartment rental could be more feasible.

Traveling in Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park

One of the most visited destinations in the eastern part of the United States, Shenandoah National Park attracts over a million people each year for its beautiful mountain scenery, abundant wildlife, and vibrant colors in the autumn months. Established in 1935, it is the largest fully protected area in the mid-Appalachian region.

Neighborhoods & Around

Throughout the park, there are three centers for visitors. Dickey Ridge Visitor Center is located at mile 4.6 on Skyline Drive, Harry F. Byrd Sr. Visitor Center is located at mile 51 on Skyline Drive, and Loft Mountain Information Center is located at mile 79.5 on Skyline Drive. The first two have facilities with restrooms, an information desk, exhibits, videos, sales, publications, maps, backcountry permits, and first aid. Additionally, there are three lodges in the park-Skyland Resort, Big Meadows Lodge, and Lewis Mountain Cabins. It is necessary to have reservations for these as they can be booked for months, especially in high season. There are also a handful of campgrounds available by reservation and first-come first-served basis. These include Matthews Arm, Big Meadows, Lewis Mountain, and Loft Mountain. Most sites include flush toilets and a camp store; some also feature coin showers, coin laundry, and a dump station. Six primitive cabins are available in the park as well, maintained by the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club. Then there is the option for backcountry camping, for which you need a free permit, attainable on the park website or at one of the visitor centers.

Travel Budget for Shenandoah National Park Visit Shenandoah National Park on a Budget or Travel in Style

How much does it cost to travel to Shenandoah National Park?

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Shenandoah National Park cost?

Is Shenandoah National Park expensive to visit?

How much money do I need for a trip to Shenandoah National Park?

Shenandoah National Park on a Budget