Photo Courtesy of National Park ServiceShenandoah National Park
Press Release
Skyland Resort, Big Meadows Lodge and Lewis Mountain Cabins reopened for guests today, Friday, Nov. 2. Guests are asked to enter through the Thornton Gap U.S. 211 or Swift Run Gap U.S. 33 entrance stations tomorrow as the park service continues to clear snow near the northern and southern entrances to the park. All entrances are expected to be open on Saturday.
Shenandoah National Park closed at noon on Monday in anticipation of Hurricane Sandy. The storm dropped more than a foot of heavy, wet snow on the park Monday and Tuesday and cut power to the park's lodges. The power has since been restored. After the storm passed, National Park Service and ARAMARK Park and Destinations employees went to work, removing snow and fallen trees from Skyline Drive and the lodge properties.
We're happy to announce that the storm did not cause any injuries or damage to structures within Shenandoah National Park. The horseback rides from Skyland Resort will be suspended as a result of the storm. The two-and-a-half hour ride will be canceled for the remainder of the season, while the one-hour trail may reopen. The trails will be assessed on Monday and a decision will be made at that time.
"We were prepared for the worst here in Shenandoah, and are very relieved that aside from an early snow that turned Shenandoah into a beautiful winter wonderland, the park emerged virtually unscathed," says Wayne Soard, district manager for ARAMARK Shenandoah National Park Lodging. "Our hearts go out to those who were impacted by this tragic storm. Like many others, we are eager to get back to normal."
For reservations and more information, please visit www.visitshenandoah.com or call 888-896-3833. To stay informed of Shenandoah's news and events like us on Facebook.
