Shenandoah · January · Virginia

Shenandoah National Park in January

January is a fair month for Shenandoah National Park, with some limitations. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average 42°F and lows 27°F, with about 3.02 inches of rain.

January is rated fair at Shenandoah. Consider May–Jun, Oct instead.

Full park guideAll parks in January
RatingFair
CrowdsQuiet
Avg high / low42°F / 27°F
Rain3.02 in

What to expect

Honest take: January is not the month for Shenandoah. Skyline Drive closes in sections during snow and ice. Views are wide open without leaves.

Local tip

Enter at Thornton Gap or Swift Run Gap on fall weekends to avoid the long lines at Front Royal.

Good to know

  • Best months overall: May–Jun, Oct.
  • Closest airport: Washington Dulles (IAD), about 1.25 hours.
  • Before you go: Old Rag requires a day-use ticket for much of the year. Check current conditions on nps.gov.

2-day Shenandoah itinerary · Packing list

Questions

Is January a good time to visit Shenandoah National Park?

January is a fair month for Shenandoah National Park, with some limitations. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average 42°F and lows 27°F, with about 3.02 inches of rain.

What is the weather like in Shenandoah National Park in January?

Highs average 42°F and lows 27°F, with about 3.02 inches of rain. Conditions are fair this month, so check the month-by-month ratings before you commit.

How crowded is Shenandoah National Park in January?

January is one of the quietest months at Shenandoah National Park.