Fox Hollow Trail

Fox Hollow is a 1.2-mile total loop that starts directly across Skyline Drive from Dickey Ridge Visitor Center. It’s an easy, family-friendly sampler of Shenandoah’s human and natural history rather than a views hike. Expect a rock-and-dirt footpath with gentle grades and roughly 300 feet of elevation change—enough to feel like a real walk, not a workout.

Why go

This loop packs a lot into a small package: second-growth hardwood forest, old homesite clues, and the Fox family cemetery—where you’ll spot 19th-century headstones, including a Civil War veteran. Rock piles along the way are field-clearing remnants from when this hollow was farmed, and in spring you may see old garden plants like daffodils or irises outlining former buildings. It’s also a designated Kids in Parks TRACK Trail, so families can layer on kid-focused activities.

Route in brief

From the visitor center, carefully cross Skyline Drive and go left on the Dickey Ridge Trail. In about 0.3 mile, turn right at a concrete post onto the unblazed Fox Hollow Trail. You’ll descend past the old homesite area and rock piles; around 0.5 mile the Fox family cemetery appears on the left. Continue to close the loop back to Skyline Drive and the visitor center.

What you’ll see

Look and listen for birds—this site is recognized on the Virginia Bird & Wildlife Trail. Common sightings include hairy woodpecker, northern flicker, indigo bunting, American goldfinch, and Carolina chickadee. In spring, watch near the small spring mid-route for frogs and salamanders. You’ll also pass periwinkle and other garden plants left by former residents, a subtle reminder that this forest has re-grown over only the last several decades.

Best time to hike

Spring and fall shine here: comfortable temps, active birds, and seasonal flowers. Summer is fully leafed-out (and humid), but the shady forest helps. Winter can be pleasant when open, but your day depends on Skyline Drive’s status if there’s snow or ice.

Good to know

• Surfaces are uneven with roots and rocks; it’s easy but not stroller/ADA friendly.
• A short segment is unblazed—watch for concrete posts at junctions.
• No pets allowed (service animals permitted).
• Park at Dickey Ridge Visitor Center (restrooms available); park entrance fee required.
• Birders: bring binoculars; this loop rewards slow, quiet walking.

Bottom line: if you want sweeping vistas, look elsewhere. If you want a mellow, 45–60 minute leg-stretcher near the Front Royal entrance that blends nature with tangible history, Fox Hollow is a smart stop.