Huntley Cabin is a Hiker's Dream
By Jess LaPolla
Does your perfect weekend consist of long days out on the trail, bagging summits and soaking in the views, followed by a night in a cozy cabin with all the modern amenities you need to be comfortable? Then consider Huntley Cabin for your next outdoorsy getaway.
A mountain oasis, this modern cabin is located in Luray, Va, just outside of Shenandoah National Park (SNP). With a large kitchen, two double beds and a double deck bunk, make it a friends weekend or bring the whole family. Enjoy your coffee on one of the two covered porches, listening to songbirds in the spring, or tuck in next to the fireplace if there’s still a chill in the air.
Being so close to SNP affords endless opportunities to get outside. Cruise down Skyline Drive, stopping at any of the swoon-worthy lookouts, or choose from a selection of great hikes in the area.
For a quick hike with great views, check out Stony Man via the Appalachian Trail. For something more challenging, hike up to Rose River Falls. This trail is especially beautiful in late spring and summer when the wild Rhododendrons are in full bloom and the spring rains make for a full-bodied cascade. For gorgeous sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, hike up to Mary’s Rock.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even set off on one of these hikes or several other hikes directly from the cabin. Follow the Crusher Ridge trail about 2.4 miles up to the AT. Do your research in advance though, because this adds quite a bit of distance and difficulty to most of the hikes.
Looking for a map or guidebook for SNP? Check out PATC’s online store.
If you need a rest day, there are plenty of other fun things to do in Luray. Visit the Luray Caverns and experience the otherworldly cave system filled with towering rock formations and turquoise waters. Also worth checking out is Hawksbill Brewery. With several beers on a regular rotation, this brewery uses locally grown and sourced ingredients in their brews.
After a fun filled day of exploring, gather around the fire ring with friends and take in the star-studded views above. Huntley is set well back from the road, so it will truly feel like you are in the backcountry. Enjoy the peace and solitude before heading back to reality.
For more information on Huntley and to make a reservation, visit our website.
*The last mile to cabin parking along Morning Star Road can become heavily eroded and even impassable in the event of inclement weather. High clearance vehicles are recommended. No alternative access is available. See "Accessing Cabins" in Cabin FAQs for further information.
