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 Ramseys Draft Wilderness where there are numerous opportunities for wildlife-watching.
Wildlife Sightings
114 species have been reported at this site to date.
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
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
Amenities
- On-site Parking
- No Fee or Permit/Pass Requirement
Other Amenities: Bike Trails, Hiking Trails
Accessibility Considerations
This location does not have a Birdability Site Review available at this time
Learn more about Birdability’s efforts to map accessible outdoor spaces
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:
- Free, Daily
Contact Information:
- U.S. Forest Service, North River Ranger District: 540-432-0187, stevenrberi@fs.fed.us
- 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.