📍 United States

SHENANDOAH TO NEW RIVER GORGE: BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAIN WONDER

Q: What weather should you expect?

Spring (April-May): Perfect weather across most regions (15-25°C) with blooming landscapes, moderate crowds, and excellent conditions for national parks and cities. Ideal for diverse activities nationwide. Autumn (September-October): Excellent temperatures with spectacular fall foliage, harvest festivals, and comfortable weather. Perfect for outdoor activities, cultural events, fewer crowds than summer. Summer (June-August): Peak season with warmest weather but highest crowds and prices. Excellent for northern regions, challenging in southwestern deserts, perfect for beaches and national parks. Winter (December-February): Variable conditions from tropical Florida to snowy Colorado. Perfect for skiing, southern destinations, indoor attractions, lowest prices outside holiday periods.

Scenic drives tracing misty blue ridges, sparkling underground cathedrals, rapids thundering through gorges. Appalachian wilderness calls.

≈ 7

Days

164

Stops

📖 4 min read 🔄 Last updated: 2026-01-17

Start in Washington, then follow Skyline Drive at Shenandoah, misty overlooks and deep forests. Descend toward Luray Caverns, before reaching New River Gorge and its bridges above the river. This Appalachian journey blends scenic road and wide spaces, with a real sense of near, easy-to-explore nature.

Shenandoah: Skyline Drive misty overlooks
New River Gorge: rafting bridge adventure
Luray Caverns: underground cathedral wonder
Washington DC: monuments cherry blossoms

Your day-by-day itinerary

Day

Washington Dc

monuments mall smithsonian cherry blossom capital

2 photos

Day 1

🔍

Discover

National Mall warm‑up or rental pickup logistics.

🎯

Activities

→

Evening dining in the Penn Quarter or Wharf.

🚗

Next stop

Distance: 164 km

Travel time: 2h03

Day

Luray

cavern cathedral shenandoah valley wineries gateway

3 photos

Day 2

🔍

Discover

Enter Shenandoah at Thornton Gap; Skyline Drive overlooks and Stony Man short summit loop.

🎯

Activities

→

Luray Caverns (commercial cave) optional visit.

Day

Luray

cavern cathedral shenandoah valley wineries gateway

3 photos

Day 3

🔍

Discover

Old Rag area or additional Skyline Drive segments (permits/conditions vary).

🎯

Activities

→

Small‑town dining and rest.

Day

Fayetteville

6 photos

Day 4

🔍

Discover

Drive west into the New River Gorge region; orientation at Canyon Rim Visitor Center.

🎯

Activities

→

Short boardwalks to bridge overlooks.

Day

Fayetteville

6 photos

Day 5

🔍

Discover

Long Point Trail to the promontory with head‑on bridge views; river access points as time allows.

🎯

Activities

→

Fayetteville eateries and small shops.

Day

Washington Dc

monuments mall smithsonian cherry blossom capital

2 photos

Day 6

🔍

Discover

Return east via scenic byways; optional Blue Ridge pullouts en route.

🎯

Activities

→

Evening in D.C.; buffer for departures.

Day

Washington Dc

monuments mall smithsonian cherry blossom capital

2 photos

Day 7

🔍

Discover

Marge de temps pour le départ.

🎯

Activities

→

Bagages et retours.

🗺️ Itinerary map

🗺️ Nearby itineraries

SMITHSONIAN MUSEUMS OF THE NATIONAL MALL IN WASHINGTON

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🛡️ Travel advice - United States

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❓ Frequently asked questions

What weather should you expect?

Spring (April-May): Perfect weather across most regions (15-25°C) with blooming landscapes, moderate crowds, and excellent conditions for national parks and cities. Ideal for diverse activities nationwide.

Autumn (September-October): Excellent temperatures with spectacular fall foliage, harvest festivals, and comfortable weather. Perfect for outdoor activities, cultural events, fewer crowds than summer.

Summer (June-August): Peak season with warmest weather but highest crowds and prices. Excellent for northern regions, challenging in southwestern deserts, perfect for beaches and national parks.

Winter (December-February): Variable conditions from tropical Florida to snowy Colorado. Perfect for skiing, southern destinations, indoor attractions, lowest prices outside holiday periods.

How many days should I plan?

We believe you will enjoy this itinerary best by dedicating between 6 and 8 days. The next step will allow you to adjust the duration of your stay.

What to discover in United States?

Continental diversity with iconic landmarks, cultural melting pot, and endless possibilities. Experience natural wonders, vibrant cities, and authentic American dreams from coast to coast. The country offers incredible diversity with modern amenities and cultural richness. United States provides life-changing experiences with natural beauty and cultural authenticity.