Gazing across the horizon from the peaks of Shenandoah National Park it's hard to believe you are just 75 miles from the bustle of our nation's capital. We enter the park on the Skyline Drive which follows the crest of the mountains through the woods and past spectacular vistas. Our hikes wander through oak trees along the Appalachian Trail and we'll discover the stories from Shenandoah's past, and relax in the wonder of wilderness.

In 1928, wanting to escape the heat and humidity of summers in Washington, D.C., Herbert and Lou Henry Hoover began looking for a "summer place" within a day's drive of the city. The Hoovers acquired land within the proposed Shenandoah National Park and built Rapidan Camp, their summer White House. We'll visit the camp and tour the buildings, stepping back in time.

Shenandoah National Park has over 500 miles of trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Some trails lead to a waterfall or viewpoint or penetrate deep into the forest and wilderness. We will hike along a section of the AT as we go from lodge to lodge in the park.

Trip begins and ends at Dulles Airport. Cost: $1495

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