Sky Meadows State Park

GENERAL INFO:

Park Type: State Park

Overall Size: Larger than a football field

Special Features/Comments: Rich in history, this park provides recreational offerings that engage visitors and help connect them with farming practices that formed its unique pastoral landscape. This 1,860-acre park has scenic views, woodlands and the rolling pastures of a historic farm that captures the colonial through post-Civil War life of the Crooked Run Valley. Nature and history programs are offered year-round. Hiking, picnicking, fishing and primitive hike-in camping for families and groups are favorite activities in this peaceful getaway on the eastern side of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The park has 10.5 miles of bridle trails, 22 miles of hiking trails, 9 miles of bike trails and Appalachian Trail access.

GETTING THERE:

Parking

pDriving Directions: The park is less than two miles south of Paris, Va., via U.S. Route 50 to Route 17 South; or seven miles north of I-66, Exit 23 on Route 17 North. The park's main entrance is on State Route 710.

Drive Time: Northern Virginia, 45 minutes to one hour; D.C., over one hour; Richmond, two hours; Tidewater/ Norfolk/ Virginia Beach, three hours; Roanoke, two and a half hours

ACTIVITIES/RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES:

Trails, Birdwatching

AMENITIES:

General Park Amenities: Restrooms, Picnic Tables, Grills

Pets: Allowed On-Leash

Additional Features: Ornamental Gardens, Visitor Center, Historic Site, Gift Shop

Trash Cans: Yes

Food for Sale Type: Gift Shop

Camping: Tent, Groups, Primitive

Camping Amenities: Fires Allowed, Fire Rings

TRAILS:

Trail Description: The park has 22 miles of hiking trails, 10.5 miles of bridle trails and 9 miles of biking trails ranging from easy to difficult. The park also accesses the Appalachian Trail and has overnight parking for AT hikers (up to 14 days). The park is a three-day hike from Harperu2019s Ferry and a two-day hike from Shenandoah National Park.

In addition, the park offers a designated 5k course which begins and ends near the Turner Pond parking area. Be sure to check the parku2019s event listings here for upcoming trail racing events.

Trail Activities: Walking, Hiking, Running/Jogging, Bicycling, Mountain Biking, Horseback Riding, Dog Walking, Birdwatching

Trail Difficulty: Easy, Moderate, Difficult

Trail Layout: Loop & Linear (network)

Trail Length: Over 10 miles

Trail Shade: Some

Trail Width: 4-8 ft

Trail Extras: Panoramic Views, Historic Sites

OTHER:

Programming Available: Education/Ranger Programs, Junior Ranger Programs

Park Information: Maps, Brochures

Staffing & Safety: Employee/Ranger Present, Ranger Patrol

Open Space Activities: Go for a walk or jog, Have a picnic

Open Space Size: Larger than one football field in size

Open Space Shade: Some

Natural Water Feature: Pond/Lake