It would be challenging to pick the best time of year to visit Shenandoah National Park. Spring and summer may seem like obvious choices; with the arrival of warmer weather comes gushing waterfalls and breathtaking flowers. Yet fall is equally charming, with its canvas of reds, yellows, and golds. Of course, winter may be the most magical of all, especially when a dusting of snow crowns the Blue Ridge Mountains. While we can’t pick the best time of year to visit Shenandoah, we can certainly agree that watching the seasons change there is the most rewarding experience of all. Take a look at the following photographs and see if you agree.

As one of the most popular destinations in Virginia, Shenandoah National Park isn't exactly a hidden gem. Accessible from various parts of the state, the park provides 311 square miles of natural splendor.
photo by Bill Koplitz / Getty Images
The park seems to come alive in the spring -- literally and figuratively. Baby bears and wildflower buds suddenly appear, delighting visitors to no end.
Scott Suriano / Getty Images
The season typically lasts from the middle of March until the end of May. Be sure to bundle up, though, because average temperatures hardly exceed 55 degrees F.
krblokhin / Getty Images

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Summer is the season of adventure. With everything in bloom, the park is a playground filled with hiking trails, mountain peaks, boulders, and waterfalls.
LightScribe / Getty Images
The days are long during the summer season, too, so you could easily spend 12 full hours of daylight exploring as much as possible before pitching your tent and starting all over again in the morning.
John Baggaley / Getty Images
As summer turns to fall, the landscape changes quickly and dramatically. This is easily the most photogenic season in Shenandoah, so be sure to bring your camera!
beklaus / Getty Images
Winter may be quiet, but that only adds to the beauty of the park during the off-season. You won't find as many visitors here this time of year. Solitude is abundant, and you'll find the park becomes the perfect place to reflect on the year ahead.
Moazzam Ali Brohi / Getty Images

When did you last visit Shenandoah National Park? Do you have a favorite time of year to go? Share your experiences with us in the comments – we would love to hear from you!

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