Our Favorite Hikes - Big Meadows

Ok, so this isn't really a "hike", but it's one of our favorite places to stop when we've been exploring the North end of the Skyline Drive. Big Meadows is a super place for a picnic, a leisurely walk or a great place to recharge after a long hike. Located at Mile Marker 51, this is an easy drive from some of our favorite hikes (Bearfence, South River, Lewis Falls, Dark Hollow Falls) and features a little quick service restaurant ( Do not pass up your chance to try the Blackberry Ice Cream - DELICIOUS!!!), gas station, restrooms, gift / camping supplies shop and a really interesting visitors center next door.



We stopped by in early April, and the grass was just turning green and leaves had yet to appear on all of the trees, but it was still so relaxing and beautiful. The amenities closet at the Blue Vistas Cabin features a picnic blanket and picnic basket that could be put to good use at Big Meadows!

If you've made it to Big Meadows, be sure to stop in the Harry F. Byrd Visitor Center. This is a really interesting spot. It features a lovely viewing area, where you can sit indoors or outdoors and take in the views. There is a wonderful museum area also with fascinating facts about the creation and history of Shenandoah National Park, and a small movie theatre that rotates 3 different films about the area.

I was really intrigued by the bookstore's offerings too. Lots of neat souvenirs are available, and the book selection was very tempting. The selection ranged from kids scavenger hunt books, and board books for the littlest hikers, to fascinating histories of the National Park.

I never miss a chance to stop at Big Meadows (did I mention the Blackberry Ice Cream!) we love to hike Bearfence and then head over for a picnic. At dusk, deer crowd the meadows, and you can walk the trails and get some wonderful photos. No matter the time of day, this can be a wonderful place to stop and absorb the breathtaking beauty of Shenandoah National Park!

Things to Know Before You Go:
-Big Meadows Wayside is located at Mile Marker 51.2

-The Wayside closes at 5:30

-The Harry F. Byrd visitor center is open 7 days a week and closes at 5pm

-Both facilites will close for the winter season on November 28th, 2010