Outdoor Activities
Hiking
Just 30 minutes from downtown sits Shenandoah National Park. The park has over 500 miles of trails and about 80,000 acres of protected areas. The best way to access many of the trails from Harrisonburg is by Skyline Drive at the Swift Run Gap entrance station. From here you can find many trail heads to start your adventure.
To the west of town is the George Washington National Forest which offers some beautiful trails and vistas. Of these, the High Knob Fire Tower Trail is definitely recommended and offers some breath taking views.
Fishing
The streams and rivers of the Shenandoah Valley are some of the best in the eastern United States for catching brown trout, wild brook trout, and both smallmouth and largemouth bass. In the region there are over 3000 miles of public trout water as well as many other lakes and streams in the region’s wilderness areas.
There are also numerous options for warm water fishing for smallmouth and largemouth bass, musky, and carp. The best resource for planning your next fishing trip is Mossy Creek Fly Fishing, right here in Harrisonburg.
Biking
Harrisonburg is an incredibly bike friendly town both for a relaxed riders looking to tour downtown and for those looking for more adventurous mountain biking.
For mountain biking check out: Rocktown Trails at Hillandale Park or plan a whole day on the trails in the George Washington National Forest.
Thick tires not for you? The roads around town offer riders with stunning views of rolling hills and farmlands and minimal traffic. Check out our two favorite bike shops to get routes and cue sheets: Shenandoah Bicycle Company and Rocktown Bicycles
Farms & Gardens
Give yourself the opportunity to stop and smell the flowers. Harrisonburg has lots to offer in the realm of agritourism. Right in town is the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum which has a beautiful collection of plants and flowers. Also nearby is the White Oak Lavender Farms which has interactive gardens, petting zoo, and season farm tours.
Kayaking & Canoeing
The Shenandoah River is a local treasure and the South Fork is perfect for relaxing trips for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing. There are 20 public access point along the South Fork of the Shenandoah which allow for many different trips. Most of the river flows through private property so be sure to plan your start and end points ahead of time.
The Port Republic Boat Launch is near town and a popular place to start for a tubing or kayaking trip. Check out Outdoor Adventure Experiences for guided trips and to rent gear.
Skiing & Snowbording
Less than half an hour from Harrisonburg is the Massanutten Resort which offers skiing and snowboarding for all experience levels. Additionally, Bryce Resort is 45 minutes north and provides more slopes and snow sports.
