The Shenandoah River runs the length of the valley and the Blue Ridge rises straight up behind it, so most of what there is to do here happens outside. Nearly all of it is within half an hour of your cabin.
Shenandoah National Park & Skyline Drive
Thornton Gap entrance, about 10 miles east of Luray on US 211
More than 500 miles of trail and a 105-mile scenic drive along the crest of the Blue Ridge, with overlooks roughly every mile, waterfalls, and some of the best autumn colour in Virginia. An entrance fee applies per vehicle and is valid for several days.
Shenandoah River Outfitters
6502 S. Page Valley Rd, Luray
Canoe, kayak, raft and tube trips on the South Fork of the Shenandoah, with equipment and shuttles provided. A long-running local operation — 2026 is their 56th season.
Appalachian Adventures
2093 E. Main St, Luray
River trips with a wider range of craft, including canoes and kayaks plus jet skis and party boats, and both private and guided outings.
Rope Adventure Park at Luray Caverns
970 US Highway 211 West, Luray
Rope courses and zip lines on the caverns site, with separate courses for smaller children and taller kids and adults. Handy if you want an outdoor activity without driving anywhere new.
Bear Mountain Zip Lines
2354 US Highway 211 East, Luray
Zip line courses through the trees, including a Baby Bear course suitable for children from around 36 inches tall.
Horseback Riding
Various locations around Page County
Guided trail rides are available at Jordan Hollow Stables near Stanley, Fort Valley Stables over the mountain, and River Hill Stables, which also takes riders bringing their own horses. Guided rides are available inside Shenandoah National Park as well.
Shenandoah River State Park
Bentonville, about 25 minutes north of Luray
Riverfront trails, picnic areas, fishing access and more than a mile of river frontage, with quieter trails than the national park.
Massanutten Resort
Massanutten, about 40 minutes south of Luray
Skiing and snowboarding in winter, and an indoor and outdoor waterpark, golf, mountain biking and zip lines the rest of the year.
Before You Head Out
River levels change with the weather, so call ahead rather than just showing up. Inside Shenandoah National Park, mobile signal is patchy, and services along Skyline Drive are limited and seasonal. Fill your car up with gas and pick up water in Luray first.