Shenandoah National Park (Virginaia USA) Concessioner ARAMARK Introduces Guided Trekking Program for 2006

Exploring the renowned hiking trails of one of America’s greatest national parks just got easier. Beginning in spring 2006, Shenandoah National Park concessioner ARAMARK will offer a new two-day, two-night “Trekking Adventure Program” led by certified professional guides.  The day-long hikes are designed to highlight the region’s wildlife, flora and fauna while ascending the park’s highest peaks, followed by evening entertainment and dining at the Park’s historic Skyland Resort.

Offered three times this spring (April 2-4, April 11-13 and May 21-23), the Trekking Adventure Program costs $499 per couple and includes:
• A two-night stay, double occupancy, at Shenandoah’s historic Skyland Resort
• Two days of guided hikes on the Park‘s mountain trails (including transportation to the trailheads)
• Box lunches each day
• Shenandoah souvenir mug and a map of the program’s relevant hiking areas within the Park
 
“With 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail running through the Park—complemented by hundreds of miles of additional hiking trails —Shenandoah has been a trekker’s destination since its days as a summer home for President Hoover,” said Tim Smith, ARAMARK District Manager for Shenandoah.  “These special trips provide a unique opportunity for visitors to learn more about Shenandoah’s natural history, while experiencing firsthand its breathtaking views, wildflowers and wildlife.”
 
The 2006 “Trekking Adventure Program” is just one of a variety of outdoor adventure activities ARAMARK is planning to offer this year, according to Smith.
 
Program Details
After a late afternoon check-in at Skyland Resort, guests will gather the next morning for a brief hiking orientation before departing with their guide.  A four-mile, day-long trek takes guests along the Appalachian Trail and over the summits of Stony Man Mountain and Little Stony Man.  On day two, hikers will set out on a five-mile trek that includes an ascent of Hawksbill Gap (4,051 ft. in elevation) and a descent along the Salamander Trail to join the Appalachian Trail northbound to Skyland.
 
Program price is for double occupancy and includes taxes.  An added per person fee will apply for groups larger than two and for children.  For reservations at Skyland Resort or for more information on the Trekking Adventure Program, visit www.visitshenandoah.com or call (800) 778-2872. 
 
About Shenandoah National Park
Established by Congress in 1935, Shenandoah National Park in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia contains nearly 197,000 acres of land with over 500 miles of trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail.  Shenandoah draws up to 1.5 million visitors a year with its rich history, unique geography and wildlife, as well as the panoramic vistas from the Skyline Drive.  This National Scenic Byway, built during the Depression era, winds along the crest of the mountains through the length of the Park, providing vistas of the sweeping landscape to the east and west.
 
Lodging options in the Park include Skyland Resort (mile 41.7 and 42.5), Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51.2) and Lewis Mountain Cabins (mile 57.6), operated by ARAMARK , an authorized concessioner and hospitality provider for the National Park Service.  For more information about Shenandoah accommodations, dining and special events, call 800-778-2872 or visit www.visitshenandoah.com

January 19, 2006   Posted in: United States SouthEast