Description
Elevation: 2875 ft.
At an approximate elevation of 3500 feet, this mountaintop summit is a wonderful site for hawk-watching in the fall. It also bears historical significance as one of Virginia’s preserved Civil War battlefields and offers a walking tour with interpretive signage along the Confederate Breastworks on Shenandoah Mountain. The scenic views from an open vista along this county-line mountain peak attract most travelers along US 250. The Shenandoah Mountain Trail, marked with blazes, runs north and south along the crest of the mountain. Hiking trails also lead down to the Ramsey’s Draft Wilderness where there are numerous opportunities for wildlife-watching.
Notes:
- As with all Virginia Bird & Wildlife Trail sites within the George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, please visit the Alerts webpage to check this location’s status before heading out.
- These trails are well marked and well maintained but can be steep and narrow.
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at Shenandoah Mountain:
- Red-bellied Woodpecker
- Blue Jay
- Common Raven
- Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
- Downy Woodpecker
- White-breasted Nuthatch
- Pileated Woodpecker
- Hairy Woodpecker
- Northern Flicker
- Tufted Titmouse
114 species have been reported at this site to date.
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 31 Jan 2026 | 3 | Scott Priebe |
| 31 Jan 2026 | 5 | Antonio Martinez |
| 30 Jan 2026 | 6 | Antonio Martinez |
| 30 Jan 2026 | 11 | Vic Laubach |
| 8 Jan 2026 | 3 | Scott Priebe |
Amenities & Accessibility Considerations
Site Amenities
- On-site Parking
- No Fee or Permit/Pass Requirement
Other Site Amenities: Bike Trails, Hiking Trails
Maps & Directions
From I-81: Exit 225 and travel west on the State Route 275 Bypass for 5 miles. Turn right onto US 250 and drive for 22 miles to the Confederate Breastworks Trailhead located on top of Shenandoah Mountain.
To return to I-81, return to US 250 East and follow it back to I-81. Alternatively, take US 250 West and begin the Little Switzerland Loop.
Site Information
Managed By:
- U.S. Forest Service
Access Requirements:
Contact Information:
- Visit Website
Sites, or portions of sites, can be closed periodically for management activities. Please always check the site’s website for additional information prior to visiting.