Horseback Riding at Shenandoah River State Park
(540) 622-6840
350 Daughter of Stars Drive
Bentonville, VA 22610
Latitude: 38.854777
Longitude: -78.306552
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Bear Bottom Loop Trail
Bear Bottom Loop Trail is a 5.4 mile round trip, difficult, multi-use trail. This trail begins at the horse trailer parking area and roughly follows the topographic contour lines skirting beautiful creek bed hollows. Big Oak Trail can be accessed about half way through the loop. The upper portion offers scenic winter views of the Massanutten Mountains. Black bear and deer have been observed in this area. The switchbacks that follow the terrain make this trail feel like a real walk in the wilderness. While this is one of the most enjoyable trails in the park, hikers should allow 2 to 3 hours to complete the trail and be sure to take plenty of water.
Blaze Color: Teal
Usage:
- Length: 5.4
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Surface: Earth, Gravel
Big Oak Trail
Big Oak is a 1.7 mile, multi-use trail, with a moderate difficulty rating. The trail is located on the west side of the park and offers access to the Tulip Poplar, Redtail Ridge and Shale Barrens trails. Access to the Big Oak Trail can be gained from either the Cullers or Bear Bottom Loop trails. The trail is wooded with many types of oak trees and in the spring, many species of wildflowers can be seen here.
Blaze Color: White
Usage:
- Length: 1.7
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Surface: Earth
Culler's Trail
Culler's Trail is a 2.6 mile, easy, multi-use trail. Visitors can access the trail from the horse trailer parking area and walking a short distance up the Bear Bottom Loop Trail. This trail can also be accessed from the Cabin area, RV campground and near the Bentonville low water bridge at the southwest end of the park. This trail winds through a wooded area with a dirt surface before crossing Overnight road. The trail continues on with a gravel surface as it passes through fields overlooking the Shenandoah River, offering great views of the Massanutten mountains. As the trail passes an area known as a Shale Barren, many endemic wildflowers can be seen at this location. The River, Shale Barrens and Big Oak trails can be directly accessed from Culler's Trail.
Blaze Color: Orange
Usage:
- Length: 2.6
- Difficulty: Easy
- Surface: Earth, Gravel
Redtail Ridge Trail
The Redtail Ridge Trail is a 1 mile, easy difficulty multi use trail that is accessible from the Big Oak and Shale Barrens Trails. From either direction the trail follows the ridge top and features some of the best views in the park. This trail also features a observation area a short distance from the main trail. This beautiful location in a saddle along the ridge features a hitching post available to equestrian users. For the most dynamic views and incredible fall foliage, this trail is a must.
Blaze Color: Red
Usage:
- Length: 1
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Surface: Earth
River Trail
The River Trail is a 2.1 mile, flat, easy, multi use trail that is accessible from Culler's Trail in several places and provides access to the Bluebell Trail. As the name suggests, this trail parallels the Shenandoah River as it runs through flat rolling fields and areas of wildflowers, such as teasel, which attract many butterflies. The trail is mostly fine gravel, though some places have rocky sections, which might be difficult for some bikes and horses. Users should exercise care.
Blaze Color: Dark Green
Usage:
- Length: 2.1
- Difficulty: Easy
- Surface: Earth, Gravel
Shale Barrens Trail
The Shale Barrens is a .5 mile, difficult, multi-use trail. When accessed from the Cullers Trail, it is a steady climb up and around a ridge that has been cut through shale deposits on a steep hillside. The shallow soil and exposed shale are home to some unusual plants and wildflowers such as Prickly Pear and Wild Columbine. For an easier hike, visitors can access the trail from either Redtail Ridge or Big Oak trail.
Blaze Color: Gray
Usage:
- Length: 0.5
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Surface: Earth
Tulip Poplar Trail
Tulip Poplar is a .8 mile, easy, multi-use trail. It can be accessed from the Big Oak Trail at the west end of the park. This trail is wooded with many large trees, including oaks and poplars, providing lots of shade in the summer months. Watch for a vernal pool on the west side of the trail that empties during dry seasons. This trail can be part of a circuit hike that includes the Redtail Ridge, Big Oak and Shale Barrens trails.
Blaze Color: Pink
Usage:
- Length: 0.8
- Difficulty: Easy
- Surface: Earth
Other Activities At Shenandoah River State Park: Biking, Boating and Water Sports, Camping, Educational Activities, Fishing, Hiking, Hunting, Picnicking, Canoeing And Kayaking and Cabins and Lodges
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