Shenandoah National Park, Virginia (1961)

[Music] the Shannondoa National Park. 300 square miles of natural beauty in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Before driving into the park, it's always a good idea to stop at the Ranger headquarters for information on activities. It would be a shame to miss something because you hadn't heard about it. There are really two parts to Shannondoa National Park. And fortunately, the motoring vacer is in an ideal position to see both. The first is Skyline Drive, 105 mi of road that roughly follows the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. [Music] And the second part is the vast and magnificent wilderness that stretches out on either side of the road. It's a good thing for drivers that there are some 75 lookout points along the way. Otherwise, only the passengers could enjoy the scenery while the driver paid attention to the road. And it's pretty obvious that an awful lot of drivers from an awful lot of places don't want to be cheated. Of course, once you've seen the view that's here, well, can you blame them for stopping? [Music] [Applause] [Music] Now, there are some people who just aren't satisfied until they get as close as possible to the scenery. If you're one of them, then this is the place for you because there are trails here that lead to all sorts of exciting variety. Best we get on our way, though, because 300 square miles takes a lot of looking, and no matter where you turn, there's always something new to see. Of course, it's fine to just feast your eyes, but stomachs need an occasional bit of feasting, too. The lodge at Big Meadows has an excellent dining room and overnight guest rooms as well. Or if you prefer dining on a terrace with a view, then there's Skyline Lodge, also with rooms for the overnight guest. It may be, however, that you have a third preference. A dining terrace is fine for the city, but in the country, well, you'd rather rough it. Fine, if that's what you want, then Shannondoa National Park is ready and waiting for you. [Music] Things may be more chic up at Skyline Lodge, but a lot of people enjoy this sort of life. You can be sure of a welcome to the tenting clan. There's always room for one more in the campgrounds. [Music] [Applause] By the way, we don't want to seem ungrateful for those 200 horses that brought you to the park, but parts of the area are best seen with the help of the old-fashioned one-horse kind of power. So, if you want to make a temporary switch from steering wheel to bridal, well, that's easy, too. [Applause] We don't know what it is about these mountains, but time always goes by too quickly here. Of course, a souvenir or two always makes the partying a little easier. And besides, children always manage to find new friends in the strangest places. Let's see. Now, we'll need some apple candy, at least two of those hooked rugs, oh yes, a couple of those Virginia smoked hams, and I'd say about three gallons of that sweet cider. Now, those provisions ought to take care of us on the trip home. Besides, we can always drive back for more again next year. [Music]