Book Displays

Nature's Calling! Exploring the Great Outdoors in the
Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains

Updated September 2023 • Originally on display in Carrier Library, October 2018

Created by Ryan Winfree

We at JMU are lucky to have such abundant outdoor opportunities right at our doorstep, in and near Harrisonburg. Spring is a great time to take advantage of it! Studies show that getting closer to nature can improve mental health, so take a break from the stress of class and work—and enjoy all the outdoor activities our beautiful region has to offer. Whether it’s hiking, camping, fishing, kayaking, birdwatching, or simply meditating in a peaceful meadow, there is something for everyone to appreciate.

Start your next adventure today!

We recommend that you check the status of the trails or recreation areas in case there are closures or alternate routes due to weather, public health, or the changing of the seasons.

Helpful Online Trail Guides:

• Hiking Upward
• All Trails
• Trail Link 
• Shenandoah National Park day hikes

Hikes near Harrisonburg:

Easy:

• Hidden Rocks (Hone Quarry Area) (35 minutes from Harrisonburg)
• High Knob Tower (45 minutes from Harrisonburg)
• Big Schloss (55 minutes from Harrisonburg)
• Tibbet Knob (55 minutes from Harrisonburg
• Crabtree Falls (1 hour 15 minutes from Harrisonburg)
• Whispering Spruce Trail/Spruce Knob (1 hour 45 minutes from Harrisonburg)

Moderate:

• Emerald Pond (30 minutes from Harrisonburg)
• Humpback Rocks (50 minutes from Harrisonburg)
• Veach Gap (1 hour from Harrisonburg)
• Hawksbill Mountain (1 hour 10 minutes from Harrisonburg)

Strenuous:

• Strickler Knob (40 minutes from Harrisonburg)
• Three Ridges (55 minutes from Harrisonburg)
• Old Rag (1 hour 20 minutes from Harrisonburg)

Lakes:

• Switzer Lake (30 minutes from Harrisonburg)
• Todd Lake (45 minutes from Harrisonburg)
• Elkhorn Lake (55 minutes from Harrisonburg)
• Sherando Lake (55 minutes from Harrisonburg)

Other Points of Interest:

• Edith J. Carrier Arboretum (On campus)
• Natural Chimneys Park (30 minutes from Harrisonburg)
• Seven Bends State Park (45 minutes from Harrisonburg)
• Shenandoah River State Park (1 hour from Harrisonburg)
• Shenandoah National Park
  • Rockfish Gap South Entrance (45 minutes from Harrisonburg)
  • Swift Run Gap Entrance (55 minutes from Harrisonburg)
  • Thornton Gap Entrance (1 hour from Harrisonburg)
  • Front Royal North Entrance (1 hour 15 minutes from Harrisonburg)

UREC Resources

• Check out UREC's Adventure Activities pages for info on equipment rentals, adventure trips, and more!

Books from JMU Libraries: