Making your way to Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley is an amazing opportunity to leave the hustle of life behind and focus on a fantastic outdoor adventure instead. One of the most iconic stops in this area to explore for those with a passion for the great outdoors is Massanutten Mountain. Integrated into the easternmost section of the Ridge and Valley Appalachians, Massanutten Mountain is a captivating area for those who love to hike, bike, climb, ski, or camp their way through a getaway. It’s open for enjoying these types of activities year-round and compared to its mountainous counterparts, boasts a relatively manageable elevation where peaks top off around 3,000 feet. Massanutten Mountain can be viewed in all of its glory from places like Skyline Drive within Shenandoah National Park, making for a truly inspiring scene even from a distance.
Massanutten Mountain Geology
Massanutten Mountain is geologically defined as a synclinorium. This means its natural construction revolves around a large syncline superimposed by smaller replicas and folds. The many layers that make up Massanutten Mountain create a unique blend of crests and ridges that outdoor adventurers and nature photographers alike find endlessly appealing. Massanutten Mountain is part of a larger range of mountains that’s typically divided into two primary sections. These are the section north of New Market Gap and the section South of the New Market Gap. The northern section hosts Fort Valley while the southern section is comprised of tighter, more challenging ridges. Many hikers set their sights on the northern section when they’re looking to pair quality time on the trails with spectacular vistas to enjoy as well.
Exploring Massanutten Peak
One of the most popular areas of Massanutten Mountain to explore is Massanutten Peak. It’s located on the southern end and rises approximately 1,500 feet above Harrisonburg. Here, outdoor adventurers are free to traverse the terrain solo, but this area also houses the Massanutten Resort where wintertime skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing are well within reach. Amazing views are available across Massanutten Peak, particularly along the route known as Ridge Trail.
Book Your Stay in Virginia Today
When adventure and fun are calling you to the Shenandoah Valley, the team at Vacation Properties Made Simple is here to make sure you have the accommodations to match. Reach out to our team today to learn more about our many exciting rental options and how we can help you turn those future travel plans into a reality.