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Shenandoah Valley / Harrisonburg
Virginia
Harrisonburg, nicknamed "The Friendly City," is located in beautiful Rockingham County in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. The town took its name from founder Thomas Harrison. This area provides a rich mix of history and recreation. In 1862, Gen. Turner Ashby, a respected Confederate officer, fell in battle at Harrisonburg while protecting Gen. "Stonewall" Jackson's approach to Port Republic. Visitors can trace Civil War battles in the morning and then head out for an adventure hiking, fishing or golfing. George Washington National Forest, east of town, encompasses 139,000 acres of terrain. Numerous opportunities for hiking, fishing and horseback riding can be found here. Shenandoah National Park Shenandoah National Park is to the east and includes Skyline Drive. This 105-mile long scenic mountain route was dedicated by President Franklin Roosevelt in 1939. The park contains 195,000 acres of land. Hikers will find endless trails, many of which intersect Skyline Drive. Trails range in length and difficulty to provide a route for hikers of all skill levels. Hikers might see not only breathtaking scenery, such as Dark Hollows Falls, but some of the abundant wildlife in the park. More than 200 species of birds have been identified and there is a large population of white-tailed deer. Massanutten Resort, 10 miles east of Harrisonburg, offers hiking, mountain biking, swimming, fishing, golf and horseback riding. This 6,000-acre four-season resort is at the southern end of Virginia's Massanutten Mountains. It includes an 18-hole championship golf course with fantastic views. Numerous trails exist for hikers to explore the fields of wildflowers and views of the Shenandoah Valley. Culture and Art The Virginia Quilt Museum gives visitors an opportunity to study quilts and the role of quilting in culture and society. Work by early and contemporary artisans is on display. The Shenandoah Valley Folk Art and Heritage Center, just down the road in Dayton, features a Civil War exhibit, including an electric map that details Gen. "Stonewall" Jackson's Valley Campaign. The center's exhibits also include the traditional art work of the region, which reflects the ethnic and religious backgrounds of the original settlers here, mainly German and Scots-Irish.  |
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